DPR Construction is a self-performing general contractor and construction manager specializing in technically complex and sustainable projects for the advanced technology/mission critical, life sciences, healthcare, higher education, and commercial markets.
Debra Bauman,
Senior Vice President, Business Development
Debra is a seasoned leader at DPR Construction with more than 25 years of experience in the design and construction industry. A Tampa native, she attended the University of South Florida, Debra brings deep local knowledge and industry expertise to her role as leader of the Get Work team for DPR’s Central Florida Business Unit. In this role, she drives strategy and business development efforts across the region, helping position the firm for long-term success.
Debra has built a strong reputation for cultivating lasting client relationships, aligning business goals with construction solutions, and fostering industry partnerships that deliver real value. Her leadership is grounded in a passion for strengthening the Tampa Bay region through impactful community engagement.
An active civic and industry leader, Debra has served on numerous boards, including the Tampa Bay Chamber, Associated Builders and Contractors, and the Hillsborough Community College Foundation Board. She has also contributed her time and leadership to the Around the World with St. Jude Gala Committee, benefiting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Debra is currently an Investor-level member of the Tampa Bay Economic Development Council.
Outside of work, Debra enjoys traveling with her family and friends. She is a proud mother of four sons and has one grandson.
Q&A with Debra Bauman:
Why do you invest in the Tampa Bay EDC?
Investing in the Tampa Bay Economic Development Council (EDC) is a strategic decision that brings numerous benefits to DPR Construction. As a construction company, we are deeply invested in the recruitment of new businesses looking to expand or relocate to the Tampa Bay region. This aspect of economic development is vital for our area’s growth and sustainability. As an Investor in the EDC, it allows me to stay informed about the business challenges facing our state and region from a policy perspective. This aspect is crucial as it helps us understand the broader economic landscape, anticipate potential obstacles, and contribute to informed decision-making processes that can positively affect our community. Finally, we invest in the Tampa Bay EDC because of the opportunity to connect with other business leaders in the Tampa Bay community, many of which are our customers, our peer organizations or businesses that share the common goal of growing and positioning our community as a leading economic hub for years to come.
In celebrating 35 years of business, what has been DPR’s favorite reason for doing business in Tampa?
As we reflect on 35 years in business, our favorite reason for doing business in the Tampa Bay region is simple: it allows us to be truly integral and indispensable to the community. From day one, DPR has been committed to more than just building great projects—we strive to build strong relationships, lasting impact, and a sense of purpose in every market we serve.
Tampa has given us the opportunity to do just that. It’s a region full of momentum and character, where our people can actively live our core values:
- Integrity, through trusted partnerships and doing the right thing even when faced with challenges.
- Enjoyment, by taking pride in meaningful work and being part of a thriving, energetic city.
- Uniqueness, through bringing creative solutions to Tampa’s dynamic and evolving landscape.
- And most importantly, Ever Forward—our belief in continual, self-initiated growth, learning, improvement, and raising the bar not just for results, but for the journey itself. Tampa Bay fosters that mindset with its spirit of innovation and progress.
After 35 years, Tampa remains a place where we don’t just do business—we grow, contribute, and call it, “our home”.
How is DPR looking to grow its business in Tampa Bay?
DPR is focused on strategic, sustainable growth in the Tampa Bay region by deepening our presence in the areas where we bring the most value. Our plan is to double down on four of our five core markets: healthcare, higher education, life sciences, and commercial. These sectors not only align with DPR’s national expertise but also reflect where we see the most potential for impactful, long-term partnerships in Tampa Bay.
We are actively working in each of these markets, and thanks to the efforts of many of our local business leaders, we’re seeing strong momentum. With continued investments and expansions planned by major institutions and campuses across the region, we believe DPR is perfectly positioned to grow with Tampa Bay—not just in volume, but in value.
Our approach isn’t just about doing more work, it’s about doing the right work and delivering truly great results with the right partners, in the communities where we can make the greatest difference. As Tampa Bay continues to evolve, so will DPR—committed to being a trusted builder and a long-term community partner.
What does business in Tampa Bay look like to you five to 10 years from now?
Growing up in Tampa and witnessing the extraordinary growth we’ve experienced, I’m incredibly optimistic about what the next five to ten years will bring for the region—and for doing business here.
I envision a future where a regional mass transportation system allows people, goods, and ideas to move more freely between Tampa, Orlando and beyond—making collaboration and business expansion faster, easier, and more sustainable.
Tampa’s Central Business District will continue to thrive, fueled by innovation, density, and a deepening sense of community. Our multifaceted higher education system, including institutions like USF, University of Tampa, Hillsborough State College and others—will become even more integrated into the economy as a major research hub, supporting sectors like healthcare, life sciences, and technology.
With the continued digital transformation of business, I believe Central Florida will establish itself as a strategic location for data infrastructure, with data centers becoming critical assets that support the entire region’s growth.
And as AI continues to evolve, my hope is that Tampa Bay will be at the forefront of understanding how to harness its power responsibly balancing innovation with ethical and practical management to ensure it enhances rather than disrupts the way we live and work.
In short, the Tampa Bay of the future is one of connectedness, intelligence, and purpose—and I’m excited to be part of shaping it.
