Steven J. Potokar, President
Steve grew up around the construction industry, as his father was a builder/developer for nearly 60 years. The first 13 years of Steve’s career were spent with three of ENR’s largest firms, in managerial positions where he gained a wealth of knowledge and experience from coast to coast on a variety of project types. Steve elected to take this experience forward when he assumed ownership of Midway Enterprises, Inc. in 1991, where the focus of the workload has been 70% within the hospitality sector and the remainder spread across the commercial and multi-family marketplace.
Steve remains deeply entrenched in the company’s day to day activities, as well as pre- construction efforts and marketing. In addition, Steve always makes it a point to remain in touch with all clients throughout a project, from start to finish, and is always available for them. Steve is a strong advocate of clear communication amongst the construction teams and stresses the importance of professionalism and integrity in the company’s day to day operations.
Steve graduated from Bradley University Sigma Lambda Chi with a Bachelor of Science degree in Construction Engineering and Architectural Technology. Steve is active in the Associated Builders and Contractors of America organization (ABC), member of the American Society of Cost Engineers, along with being active in the St. Francis de Sales Catholic Parish in Lake Zurich, Illinois.
Lori J. Potokar, Executive Vice President
Lori brings more than 30 years of experience to the Midway team. As Executive Vice President she leads corporate accounting and finance functions including accounting services, financial reporting, analysis, planning and development, and insurance forecasting and audits. Lori focuses on administrative activities and financial reporting to provide accurate and meaningful financial information in support of the integrity and operational goals of Midway.
Lori maintains a strong liaison with project operations on a day-to-day basis ensuring that any issues or monetary exposures are handled in accordance with the terms of the contract whether it be owner’s or vendors. Additionally, Lori maintains strong relationships with Midway’s banks and insurance firms.
Lori Graduated from the University of South Florida with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a minor in Finance. Lori is a member of the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC), Member of Society for Human Resources Management (SHRM) and is deeply involved with St. Francis De Sales Catholic Church, Lake Zurich, IL. To keep life balanced Lori loves to travel, is an avid golfer and spending time with her boys (a rescue Australian Shepard/Labrador Retriever and a Bouvier Des Flanders).
Tony Schanna, Project Executive
Tony has been in the construction industry for over 30 years, having successfully worked his way up to the upper management ranks. Previously Tony worked at Bulley and Andrews for over 10 years and has managed projects for major clients in the Chicagoland area such as Northern Trust Bank, Children’s Memorial Hospital and Central Du Page Hospital. Tony made a move to Midway Enterprises, Inc. in 2003 because he believed in Midway's team approach and their personal atmosphere.
Tony is involved in the preconstruction process and overall management of projects in the Chicagoland area as well as across the nation. He serves as team leader for the project management staff and believes that a cohesive team, excellent communication, and integrity are all key to successful projects. Tony’s keen ability to interact with clients from project inception through completion serves as a vital element to a project's success.
Tony has completed projects such as the 25-million-dollar renovation of the Hyatt Regency in Schaumburg Illinois and the $15 million ground up construction of Gateway Center in Chicago, Illinois. Tony is active in the Associated Builders and Contractors of America through Midway Enterprises and an active member of the VFW, Saint Peter the Apostle in Naples Florida, and the Knights of Columbus. Tony also holds a State of Florida General Contractors License.
Rory McCarthy, Senior Project Manager
Rory possesses an array of management talent with his major focus being in the hospitality and multi-family sectors throughout his 20 year career in the construction business. Rory spent the first part of his career with an ENR top rated Chicago General Contractor constructing and rehabbing hotels and multi-family buildings in downtown Chicago (including conversions of such). Rory’s experience in leading and motivating his construction teams have been great attributes in completing projects successfully.
Rory is instrumental in the Midway construction process that include client relations, strategic planning and subcontracting on projects throughout the country. Rory works with Midway executive management, project management teams and site superintendents to maintain and control budgets, scheduling, and day to day operations from project inception through completion.
Rory holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Illinois State University with an emphasis in Construction Management. Aside from work, Rory is an avid sports fan, golfer and enjoys time with his wife and children.
Linda Vlaovic, Administrative Assistant / Operations Coordinator
Linda has been with Midway for 16 years and over that time her role with the company has grown from receptionist to her current position as an Administrative Assistant / Operations Coordinator. Linda assists with all aspects of a project starting from document control on an on-going basis, processing of shop drawings and everything in between until project close- out. In addition, she serves as “point” for all field operations relative to administrative communications and organization.
Linda graduated from Illinois State University with a Bachelor of Science in education. After working in the school system, Linda took time off to raise her children. Linda headed back into the work force in 2006 at Midway and has been there ever since.
Linda is an active member in the German American soccer club that her grandfather helped start. In her free time, Linda loves to read and spend time with her family, especially her grandchildren.
