Bruce Porter has been a longstanding member of the Aurora Economic Development Council, bringing decades of construction leadership, a passion for mentorship, and a genuine belief in helping others succeed. As Executive Vice President of The Weitz Company, Bruce has helped shape some of Colorado’s most recognizable projects while remaining grounded in the values that have guided him throughout his career: faith, family, hard work, and integrity.
Originally born in New Orleans, Bruce’s path to Colorado began when his father, who worked in the oil industry, relocated the family several times before they eventually settled in Colorado during Bruce’s high school years. Today, Colorado is unquestionably home.
“I love Colorado,” Bruce says. “The climate, the people, and the culture make it a great place to live.”
His upbringing also instilled values that continue to influence both his personal life and professional leadership. Bruce recalls his mother constantly reinforcing the Golden Rule and the importance of treating others with respect – a lesson that has shaped the way he approaches relationships, business, and leadership.
Throughout his career in construction, Bruce has found tremendous fulfillment in the diversity of people, clients, and projects that come with the industry. While many professionals enjoy seeing a finished project, Bruce appreciates the bigger picture.
“I can point to multiple buildings and say I was involved in that,” he says. “Whether it’s in Vail, Aspen, or across Colorado, it’s rewarding to see what a great team has accomplished together.”
For Bruce, success extends far beyond a job title or completed project. He believes true success has three equally important components: personal, family, and professional.
“Faith, family, and enjoying the work I do are all part of success,” he explains. “Having a happy wife, happy kids, and now happy grandkids – that’s success. Professionally, it’s about growing the company, creating opportunities for others, working with a great team, and always doing the right thing.”
His perspective has evolved throughout his career. Early on, Bruce admits he was focused on achieving success quickly. After founding his own company at just 25 years old, he learned that setbacks often become life’s greatest teachers.
“Don’t be afraid to fail,” he advises. “Failure is your best lesson. The short-term game isn’t the goal. It’s about building a culture and looking at the bigger picture.”
That philosophy also fuels his passion for mentoring entrepreneurs and startup companies. Having experienced firsthand the challenges of leading a business, Bruce understands that leadership can often feel isolating.
“When you’re the boss, it’s lonely at the top,” he says. “Having someone you trust to ask questions and help guide you makes all the difference.”
Outside the office, Bruce enjoys spending time on the golf course whenever his schedule allows. One of his favorite places is Cherry Hills Country Club – a destination that holds special meaning. As a high school student, Bruce worked there washing dishes. Today, after becoming a member in 1989, he appreciates not only the course itself but also the welcoming community that has come full circle in his life.
Bruce also has a few talents that many people may not know about. He previously played rugby for the Denver Barbarians and played drums in his church band – despite joking that he was the only musician in the group who wasn’t a professional.
As a longtime Aurora EDC member, Bruce believes one of the organization’s greatest strengths is its unwavering commitment to its members.
“The Aurora EDC partners with its members,” he says.
One project that stands out is the Gaylord Rockies expansion, where Bruce saw firsthand the value of having a trusted partner helping move major projects forward.
Looking toward the future, Bruce believes Aurora is uniquely positioned for continued success.
“When you look at the metro area, there are only a few places left with room to grow, and Aurora is the biggest one,” he says. “Aurora has stayed business-friendly, and that’s important.”
Bruce believes one of Aurora’s best-kept secrets is the Aurora EDC itself. He frequently tells others that the organization is one of the community’s greatest assets because it genuinely advocates for its members and helps businesses succeed.
“If Aurora didn’t have the AEDC, it would be hard,” he says.
Whether he’s helping build Colorado’s skyline, mentoring the next generation of business leaders, or championing Aurora’s continued growth, Bruce Porter exemplifies the collaborative leadership and community-first mindset.
