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A People-First Relentless Ally for Diverse Project Dreams

When Henry Thacker first set foot on the University of Florida (UF) campus, he didn’t have a clear vision for his future career path. After exploring potential majors in design and business, Henry found his home at UF’s Rinker School of Construction Management. Beyond the excitement of watching structures come to life, the construction industry offered Henry what he most desired out of a career–working in a people-oriented industry. Henry has achieved that dream at �ձ����� and so much more as he’s embodied the company’s people-first culture on projects across Florida.
 
Henry joined �ձ����� in 2018 on the Sesame Street at SeaWorld Orlando project, which transformed an aging attraction into a modern entertainment experience complete with immersive play areas, vibrantly themed rides and one-of-a-kind interactive experiences based on the long-running children’s show. 
 
To this day, the SeaWorld project still stands as Henry’s favorite—but not for the reasons one might imagine. When construction was already underway, SeaWorld Orlando established a new goal of opening Sesame Street in time for the Spring Break rush, which was one month earlier than the original plan. The �ձ����� team took the time to understand SeaWorld’s needs, tailor their plan and accelerate all technical aspects to finish the job early and within budget. Their success helped �ձ����� establish an ongoing relationship with this valued client.

Building on Best Practices in a New Market

After the completion of Sesame Street at SeaWorld Orlando and other projects, an opportunity arose to assume the leadership role of a burgeoning business sector focusing on special projects. When Henry raised his hand to help the Florida business continue expanding its presence in this market, local leadership knew that he had the skills, vision and tenacity to be successful.
 
"Henry brings a competitive spirit and excitement to every pursuit and project, which is important in this fast-paced seller/doer role,” says Brian Prebenda, senior vice president operations. “He takes on every role he takes with passion and continuously surpasses expectations."
 
Today, Henry leads a dedicated team of fast-track delivery specialists who execute projects of diverse scopes and sizes. This team has the unique opportunity to become quickly immersed in every facet of their projects from preconstruction to final close-out.
 
Henry knows that behind every proposal, budget and schedule is a team of people, and those individuals define and deliver the complete �ձ����� experience to our clients and partners. 

Deepening Existing Relationships

Florida’s special projects team recognized that there were exciting opportunities to complete niche work with clients who had already entrusted their large, ground-up projects to �ձ�����. Repeat clients like Tavistock Development and AmWINS quickly turned to Henry to lead the delivery of projects, such as office upfits, resort renovations and restaurant refreshes.
 
One of the first projects Henry inherited in his new role was a local resort renovation. Although the project went off without a hitch and almost immediately resulted in another project award, Henry proactively facilitated a debrief with all parties to better understand the client’s vision and needs.
 
“I make it my mission to continually align and connect with the clients and partners who depend on our teams,” says Henry. “I was extremely proud of our team and excited to get started on our next project, but I knew that there were opportunities to hone our delivery skills and the construction experience we provided to the client.”
 
Although �ձ����� is recognized as an industry-leading large-scale builder in Florida, Henry is here to tell you that we can deliver the special projects too. From roofing to room renovations, these projects are just as complex and take proven experts to ensure they are executed with the same precision and dedication to operational excellence.
 
Whether you’re seeking a Construction Manager at-Risk for a 200,000-square-foot, ground-up office tower or a general contractor for a 2,000-square-foot retail renovation, look no further than �ձ�����’s special projects experts in Florida. Henry and his team know what it takes to deliver an unparalleled and people-first customer experience.

Taking RDU Airport to New Heights

Trent’s leadership has been instrumental in nurturing �ձ�����’s long-standing relationship with valued aviation client and executing on the challenges of working in an active airport environment.

Trent Johnson has always enjoyed a good challenge. For the past 15 years, he's had the opportunity to solve plenty of them at Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU), where �ձ����� has been entrusted to build 16 projects ranging in size and scope from a $700,000 carpet replacement to the recent win of the $400 million Runway 5L/23R Replacement Program. Although each project is unique, one constant remains: Trent's leadership has been instrumental in building strong teams that have successfully executed on the challenges of working in an active airport environment.

Trent didn’t always envision a career managing large-scale construction projects. But when his first internship while attending NC State University led him to RDU, he appreciated the magnitude and complexity of the work and could envision himself one day solving challenges such as building in and around fully operational critical systems.

Although Trent has worked on a variety of project types - from multifamily to healthcare - since joining �ձ����� in 2013, his home away from home has been RDU, building over 1 million square feet as part of 16 projects. It is a point of tremendous honor for Trent, who notes that RDU is not only his "hometown airport" having grown up in Wake Forest, North Carolina, but also a major economic driver in the region.

While the size and scope of Trent’s projects at RDU have varied, one constant has remained: Trent’s belief that a project team’s culture must be grounded in collaboration, respect and trust to be an effective construction partner.

“We’ve all worked the night shift. No one says, ‘That’s not my job.’ If the people on your team are all willing to do whatever it takes to get the job done, it builds morale.”

Trent counts himself fortunate to have worked with many of the same �ձ����� team members at RDU over the years, building a core crew that is uniquely positioned to understand and deliver on every stakeholder’s needs and goals.

That understanding begins with ensuring construction activities do not impact an airport’s 24/7 security operations and other critical systems such as baggage handling or Customs and Border Protection (CBP) screening that could result in costly shutdowns, delays or jeopardized public safety. It also requires in-depth knowledge of Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations—especially where runway construction is involved and may present hazards to aircraft or air traffic control operations. 

Gaining Altitude

To minimize risks once construction begins, Trent drives early planning and collaboration with all project stakeholders.  

“We believe that delivering a successful construction experience for RDU depends on more than meeting a project’s budget and schedule,” affirms Trent. “We plan for the potential challenges that a project at an active airport may encounter such as safe and secure access to work zones, impact of daily airport operations and the constant concern for material deliveries.”&�Բ�����;

Trent employs strategies such as developing site logistics plans that minimize or eliminate the interface between construction activities and the public and performing as much work as possible in non-secure areas. Because all workers in secure areas must undergo an application process to obtain Security Identification Display Area (SIDA) badges, this can significantly impact a project’s labor force and productivity. Projects that involve power switchovers or temporary outages require early communication and ongoing coordination with the client. 

On the Terminal 2 Passenger Screening Checkpoint Expansion project, the team added two lanes to the security checkpoint while working adjacent to the active security screening area. Careful coordination of all systems was required to ensure operations of the TSA checkpoint were never impacted. In a single overnight shift, the team erected a pre-finished wall system as the temporary security walls, effectively separating the construction areas from the public security lanes. The expansion was then completed in the non-secure construction space, and the new lanes were unveiled overnight after all construction had been completed.

Beyond the day-in and day-out operational excellence Trent helps deliver for RDU, he understands the immense value in achieving an early project delivery. During the initial months of the COVID-19 pandemic, �ձ����� was able to accelerate the Runway 5L-23R Preservation project due to the reduced flow of air traffic. 

Originally, the team was slated to begin the third phase of this four-phase project in early 2020. One of the major logistical considerations leading up to this point had been the need to re-open the runway daily to accommodate RDU’s international flights. When restrictions were imposed on international flights, the team was able to work with RDU and project trade partners to occupy the runway and complete the remaining work, which included an additional 25 slab replacements in only 35 days, ultimately completing the project five and half months early. This early delivery allowed RDU to eliminate an additional 57 runway closures that were originally scheduled to complete the project.

On other projects, Trent leverages cutting-edge technologies to improve efficiency. Because runway concrete must be able to withstand the weight of aircraft, construction teams test samples before it is poured and incrementally while it is curing to ensure proper temperature readings. This can be a time-consuming and often inexact process. 

On the Runway 5L-23R Preservation project, the team used a wireless maturity meter that enabled every project team member, including the client, to remotely access readings from a Smartphone app. This real-time monitoring was imperative since the concrete had to reach the strength required for an aircraft landing within 12 hours of placement. Rather than wait several hours between physically testing samples, the strength of the concrete was able to be tracked in real-time to ensure that all parameters were in place to open the runway each morning.  

Ready for Take-Off 

Throughout his time at RDU, Trent has been a consummate Relentless Ally for the airport, developing a trusted partnership and achieving a proven track record that has contributed to �ձ�����’s repeat award of multiple projects. As a tireless advocate for RDU, Trent understands the importance of treating the traveling public as his client. 

“As a true Construction Manager at-Risk partner, we’re looking out for RDU in every facet of their business. Their number one priority is the public, so we’ve made it our mission to ensure the public is at the forefront of our planning and operations.”&�Բ�����;

Whether he’s helping RDU achieve their vision of delivering a world-class airport experience or building new education, commercial or residential structures to support one of the fastest-growing regions in the U.S., Trent can be counted on to lead project teams with an unrivaled commitment to operational excellence and customer service.

Named Superintendent of the Year

�ձ�����’s own Wayne Kibbe received recognition for his tremendous efforts and joyous spirit.

“Now, the moment you have all been waiting for, the winner of the 2019 General Contractor Superintendent of the Year Award goes to Wayne Kibbe of �ձ�����.”

The audience, full of Wayne’s gleeful nominators, erupted into praise. Both surprised and honored, he walked towards the stage and humbly accepted the award and well-deserved recognition as one of San Diego’s best superintendents.

Wayne developed his love of construction from watching his dad work as a lineman. He also watched his next-door neighbor build his own house, From that point on, Wayne knew what he wanted to do with his life—become a builder. Equipped with a strong sense of drive and ambition, he set a target and took every construction class offered at his high school. He worked part-time in various trades to equip himself with the knowledge and skillset to work towards his goal. Wayne even had the opportunity to assist in building three homes while still in school.

Upon graduation, Wayne began his first full-time role working for a general contractor. He proudly accepted a position working in the field, applying his newly developed skills at what would unknowingly be his forever home–�ձ�����.

Working his way up through the company, Wayne established himself as a high achiever and quickly moved from skilled laborer to carpenter, then from assistant superintendent to now general superintendent, where he continues to thrive. Able to easily navigate and overcome project setbacks while maintaining an amicable and confident demeanor, Wayne cultivates a sense of unification, safety and mentorship.

Wayne enjoys the opportunity to successfully deliver top-notch projects for many education clients and school programs throughout California. Some of his recent projects are within the San Diego Unified School District and Chula Vista Elementary School District. Our clients at San Francisco State University know Wayne for successfully delivering projects, maintaining a high level of integrity, and most importantly, being a friend to all.

With more than 32 years of experience working in the industry, Wayne's work ethic and personal drive to succeed emanates on the jobsite, inspiring those around him to continue working towards greatness. When you step foot onto one of Wayne's projects, there is an overwhelming sense of pride carried by every team member.

The Associated Subcontractors Alliance (ASA) San Diego annual award’s program recognizes outstanding companies and individuals in a variety of categories. Only members of ASA can nominate candidates, making the awards a great honor for those nominated, and especially so for those who win. It came as no surprise to those who work with Wayne that he received the General Contractor Superintendent of the Year Award.

From all his friends and teammates at �ձ�����, and from around the industry, we are proud to congratulate Wayne for this merited achievement and commend him on his positive attitude, passion for building and his unwavering desire to bring client visions to life.

When He's on a Project, it’s Always a “Hole-In-One”

Arizona is an ideal environment for people who love golf and enjoy living and visiting the warm desert climate. Project Manager Ryan O’Donnell has masterfully combined his love for golf into his work life by successfully delivering beautiful hospitality projects throughout the region, many of which are within walking distance of nearby golf tracks.
 
Maybe that’s the reason Ryan always has a smile on his face, or maybe—and most likely—it’s because Ryan is passionate about building. He is truly focused on creating the best building experience for his clients, partners, and co-workers.
 
Having spent ten of the last twelve years in the construction industry with �ձ�����, Ryan has been providing innovative solutions on projects like a 102-guest room addition and 57,000-square-foot ballroom addition at the Fairmont Princess Resort; a new Scottsdale Resort Sales Center building; a 70-unit hotel building renovation, new villas/courtyard, and T. Cook’s Restaurant renovation for the Royal Palms Resort in Phoenix; and ADA upgrades for the Phoenician. These projects are only a small sampling of his work – which also includes projects in the tenant improvement, healthcare, office, public, and transportation market sectors.
 
For Ryan, it doesn’t matter which project or which market sector, it’s all about developing trusted relationships so that he can deliver his client’s true vision and dream. Not only does he excel at leading projects, he goes out of his way to solve problems that may, or may not, be at all related to the projects he was hired to build.
 
He is a vested partner and demonstrates his commitment in many ways including when he offered his budgeting expertise to a client so they could better understand the needs of a hotel located in a completely different state, or when he paved a parking lot at a moment’s notice–free of charge—so that it would be ready for a community holiday event, and when he, and his family, show up on the weekends and after hours to embrace events held by local charitable organizations aligned with his client’s missions.
 
Ryan says that the greatest satisfaction from his job comes from generating and maintaining long-term relationships with his colleagues, clients, and partners. “It’s all about creating the best building experience we can for the entire team,” said Ryan. “I focus on creating positive energy on the job site throughout the duration of the project. The result is a more fun environment and team members are especially motivated to be creative. It’s a great way to ensure our clients and partners are receiving the outstanding service and products they deserve.”
 
Ryan embodies the entire concept of “Relentless Ally.” Famous for his brightly colored shirts, he’s hard to miss on a project site. But even when he wears “�ձ����� blue” his contagious enthusiasm and energy are qualities that set him apart as a true client advocate and inspired leader.

In fact, others in the industry are also taking notice. Engineering News Record (ENR) Southwest named him as one of their Top 20 Under 40 winners in 2015. The publication’s annual, the regional competition recognizes 20 individuals under the age of 40 who represent the “Best-of-the-Best in their construction and design careers by giving back to their industry and communities.

An Extraordinary Leader, and Pioneer, in Our Industry

Every year, the Los Angeles Business Journal releases a special issue dedicated to honoring LA’s most influential women in construction and design. The Journal states "According to labor force statistics, the share of women in the construction industry is only at about 10%, so the women who become standouts in that industry are truly pioneers." Congratulations to Vice President, Emily Kay, for being recognized by Los Angeles Business Journal as one of 2020's Outstanding Women in Construction Management and Design!  

Building Her Legacy

Emily Kay’s collection of hardhats hangs proudly on display along a wall in her father’s home. The collection, which documents her 25 years in the construction industry, tracks her career path, from concrete laborer to her role today as Vice President of Operations with �ձ�����. It’s a story that exemplifies a willingness to try new things, a focus on learning and development, and above all, an overarching passion for working with people and building enduring relationships. 

In 1994, Emily Kay was pursuing an advertising major at the University of Kansas. To earn enough funds to pay for college tuition, she took a position as a laborer on a concrete crew, that was part of an enormous effort to build a $200M Cargill 600-acre corn-processing plant. Despite the environment, which included being the only woman among hundreds of workers, waking up every morning at 4 am with fingers so swollen from the day’s labor that they couldn’t bend, she had a positive awakening to what her future would held. She realized her teammates in the field represented the best elements of society, salt of the earth humans that had built the world around us and she decided that in this industry she would be able to build a career that could leave an impact. Five and a half years later she would graduate from the University of Nebraska with a B.S. in Construction Management. 

With the field experience and construction knowledge, Emily earned through her internships and summer jobs held consistently through those 5 years, she worked her way up the ladder; from laborer to field layout engineer, to Project Engineer, to Assistant Superintendent, to the sole female Project Executive overseeing construction in Los Angeles County for one of the largest construction companies nationwide and internationally, �ձ�����, to finally Vice President of Operations. From humble schedules, built with post-it notes on butcher-block paper, Emily has crafted her career by doing a little bit of everything to gain experience, familiarity, and the trust of her team, and to prove to herself she could. “I never wanted to ask someone to do something that I hadn’t already done myself, so I intended to get out there and try it all, running every piece of equipment I could get my hands on, spending time in every job role,” says Emily. 

In her twenty-five years in the construction industry, Emily has developed a noticeable habit: She does whatever it takes. “You don’t blend in, you don’t fly under the radar. You’re out there proving to your team - and yourself - that you can and will do it. Asking yourself ‘what can I do to make everyone else’s job easier’ and then doing just that.” This construction approach, and to working with teams in general, was born that first rainy season in 1994 when flooding threatened her project. As heavy rains filled previously excavated foundations full of reinforcing steel cages with mud, with a frame smaller than many of her peers on the field, she jumped into the rebar cage and “mucked out” the footings and grade beams by the bucket-full. “I like to focus on what the successful outcome looks like, then do whatever it takes to get there - and be willing to perform” reflects Emily. 

In 2014, Emily was welcomed to �ձ����� as a Senior Project Manager and quickly excelled to become a Project Executive where she was trusted with three of �ձ�����’s long-standing legacy clients; the Torrance Unified School District, Culver City Unified School District, and Redondo Beach Unified School District (USD). Over the past five years, Emily and her team have overseen the successful completion of new additions, summer modernization, upgrades, and new construction with a value well over $400 Million for the Torrance, Culver City, and Redondo Beach communities. And while she and her teams still oversee �ձ�����’s most senior clients, she’s also been trusted with building first impressions with Manhattan Beach USD and Wiseburn USD. Her continued success and achievements with �ձ����� have led her to become the sole female Vice President in �ձ�����’s California Division.

It was at Wiseburn High School that Emily and the team would provide construction of a ground-breaking building type that would revolutionize the educational industry, a concept known as MindShift: changing the way we educate by approaching education with the idea of “labs over lectures.” This revolutionary idea not only involves innovation in the school curriculum but evolution in building design and construction. As the Project’s Executive, it was Emily was responsible for managing and building the $100 M, four-story state-of-the-art high school campus. The adaptive reuse high school, originally an office building for Northrop Grumman, was the largest conversion of commercial space to a school building to make it through the Division of the State Architect’s approval process. Upon its completion in 2018, Wiseburn HS served as the backdrop for the 2018 EdShift Conference, which brings stakeholders together for an interactive discussion about transforming the face of K 12 education into high-impact learning environments. The project also received the 2019 “Commercial Real Estate Silver Award” from the Los Angeles Business Journal. Through Emily’s leadership and guidance, the team delivered one of LA County’s premier award-winning educational facilities, which now serves as a leading example for other innovators in education. 

In Manhattan Beach USD, Emily and her team oversee two bond programs valued at over $100 M. Active and completed projects include district-wide security fencing, HVAC upgrades throughout the District, the modernization of five elementary schools and one middle school, new 2-story classroom buildings and Multipurpose Room/Admin buildings at 2 elementary schools, and new construction of an impressive Athletic Complex at Mira Costa High School. Dr. Michael D. Matthews, the Superintendent, had the following to say with regard to the management of the projects: “Emily Kay is an extraordinary leader. She brings experience, technical knowledge, high expectations, strong support, and insightful practice to the team. She is also skilled at building highly effective construction teams.”&�Բ�����;

And while she erects structures that shape skylines and enhance communities, it’s building those highly effective teams that give her the most gratification. “As a person in a leadership role, an individual’s growth and satisfaction are what’s most important to me. I want to make sure not only my team but all staff members, are headed in the right direction, not just filling seats on the bus.” As a result of her people-first focus, she has been helping with hiring and staffing for the entire Division – from San Francisco, CA to Scottsdale, AZ. And despite living in Los Angeles, she travels monthly to Newport Beach and San Diego to meet with her mentees and stays in touch frequently with other �ձ����� staff from Seattle to Dallas. Emily is an active member of �ձ�����’s employee resource group ‘Connecting Women,’ a group that is committed to empowering employees through fostering alliances and networking. 

At any time during the year, you can find Emily devoting her time to supporting local schools and organizations. Each holiday season she participates in ‘Adopt a Family.’ Since its inception, Emily and her coworkers have helped raise over $35,000 to adopt more than 60 families in need. The families are recommended from Districts serviced by Project Executives, like Emily, and the program serves to provide a true holiday experience for those families. “We’re so fortunate to be living in Southern California, to have amazing jobs and careers, and to be able to make ends meet – I feel that those of us who are this fortunate have a responsibility to help support those that may not have the resources that we do. The holidays are a time of family and hope and happiness, and this is one small way that we can help to give back.” This fall, she and her family joined celebrities and community members in the Hermosa Beach area for the “Pier to Pier Friendship Walk” a local event that has raised over $2M annually for children with special needs. Each spring, Emily participates in the Sharefest Workday and Sharefest Golf Tournament. On average, the Golf Tournament raises over $150,000 for Los Angeles county students and school districts. During the Sharefest Workday Emily, along with dozens of coworkers and approximately 150 volunteers, dedicate their time to construction of small projects at up to 10 school sites. Fundraising is one thing, but committing time and energy on nights and weekends to ensure the job gets done is a hallmark of volunteers like Emily Kay. 

Emily has overseen the creation of community buildings, rehabilitation institutions, educational facilities, and hospitals. But perhaps her greatest contribution has been to the men and women who work beside her. Emily has earned the type of influence where people will follow her, with or without a direct line of authority. “At the end of the day, what I love most about this industry is that it truly is all about building relationships and establishing trust.” That takes personal focus, dedication, transparency, and communication.

Embodying Respect, Kindness and Personal Integrity

For some, the family business leads to a lifetime career. Titus Rodriguez got his first taste of construction working for his dad’s construction company in high school. After graduation, Titus served in the army for two years before heading to college and earning a bachelor’s degree in sociology and an associate’s degree in criminal justice. While in college, he also served in the Army Reserves and participated in the ROTC program. Upon graduation, Titus was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Military Intelligence Corps. He credits the military for giving him a foundation of leadership skills used throughout his life.

When Titus first started as an assistant project manager at �ձ����� in 2001, he worked mostly on small projects. His parents had always instilled in him that if you work hard and excel in small tasks then you will be trusted and rewarded with greater areas responsibility. Learning from others, acquiring sound leadership skills, and maintaining relationships have served him well throughout his career. Titus now serves as senior project manager of the Frost Tower project, a 25-story Class A office tower and the first commercial skyscraper to be built in downtown Fort Worth in over a decade. From day one on this complex project, Titus knew that the key to success was a high-powered team.

What is a high-power team to Titus? “They excel as professionals, but also care for each other and show mutual admiration. If a team with these qualities is assigned to a project they will go above and beyond,” says Titus. “To keep the team connected, it’s also important to have fun. The team enjoys spending time together. We have a family culture. We have a tight bond and support each other. We also support our community. We actively participate.”

Outside of his past and present coworkers, Titus credits his wife as his number one coach and largest supporter. After 20 years of marriage, 16 years of employment at �ձ�����, and three moves along the way his wife has stayed by his side cheering him on.

Respect and kindness are essential for Titus. His motto is: do what is right and never take advantage of others. A river of change has flooded the construction industry since Titus started working with �ձ�����. At that time, poor relations between general contractors and trade partners were often the norm. Titus made �ձ����� his home because he saw a different approach. He saw �ձ����� as the forerunner of a more professional construction industry where respect for others was paramount. Today, Titus sees partnership as a valued element throughout the industry, and he is proud that �ձ����� has never wavered in this approach.

Karl Joeris, vice president of �ձ�����’s Fort Worth office, appreciates Titus’ service to the Fort Worth community and his commitment to helping his clients and staff. “Whether leading fundraising for community service projects or recognition of others, he has created an environment of teamwork and servant leadership. He exemplifies the meaning of doing the right thing when no one is looking and never looks for credit. Titus inspires other employees and trade partners to be Relentless Allies for the community.”

Following in the footsteps of his past mentors, Titus is always there for the employees that work for him. At the root of everything for Titus is respect. Respect for the client, the team, the company, and for the work itself.

“I am the sum of everyone I have ever worked with over my lifetime. I have been fortunate to be surrounded by exceptional, high caliber individuals—people who embody personal integrity.”
Titus Rodriquez

Taking Risks, Blazing Trails and Spreading the Wealth

For a moment in time, the dream was to become an astronaut – until Earnest DeLoach, Jr. started the third grade. He jumped at every chance to be heard between oratorical competitions, essay contests and chatting to anyone who would listen. Earnest’s teachers always said he had the personality and characteristics to become a great lawyer one day – they were right.

At a young age, Earnest discovered his dream to defend and advocate for others. He knew becoming a lawyer would allow him to channel his passion to protect and serve the community. With full support from his parents, it was a career path he began to pave, but one that had never been pursued by family or friends. Earnest was a trailblazer.

His father, a Korean War veteran, worked as a heavy equipment operator within the construction industry for 30 years. His mother graduated from college with a math degree and became an elementary school teacher. His older sister graduated college with an accounting degree and became a fourth-grade math teacher. “We used to call ‘teaching’ the family business,” Earnest reflects.

Unbeknownst to Earnest at the time, his family’s professions would play an impactful role throughout his law career. After graduating from the University of Miami and Florida State University College of Law, Earnest moved to Orlando and worked for a law firm for two years before catching the attention of a small construction law firm in Winter Park. Without any previous construction experience, they took a chance on Earnest due to his willingness to learn.

In the early 2000s, construction was booming. The housing and multifamily markets were exploding, and Earnest was one of a few young construction lawyers in Orlando. During this time, he supported many clients gaining more knowledge around the industry with each milestone. Years later, when the market slowed down, Earnest decided to take a leap, and from 2006 to 2014 ran his own law firm. He represented dozens of clients in various businesses and industries: Fortune 500 companies, transportation authorities, school districts and more.

Every new client presented its own challenges, but that didn’t intimidate Earnest – it motived him to succeed. If he didn’t know the answer, he sought it out. Learning was a powerful tool, and he wasn’t afraid to use it – or share it.

Earnest’s desire to spread the wealth of knowledge drove him to become a speaker and part-time professor. Over the last 13 years, Earnest has taught classes at Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU) College of Law, Barry University - Dwayne O. Andreas School of Law and Valencia College. Across Florida, Earnest has been asked to speak at events, conferences, places of business, and universities to share his experiences and lessons learned throughout his career.

To Earnest, change wouldn’t be possible without risk, but it’s what you do with risk that determines an outcome. He believes the only way to manage risk is to confront it head-on to create optimal resolutions and success – in both life and business. Earnest built his career upon taking risks: declaring he wanted to be a lawyer, starting his own firm, becoming a part-time professor, and ultimately shifting his career in 2018 to work for �ձ�����. 

With over $1 billion of active work across Florida, reducing risk is crucial. With a career full of experiences mitigating risk, Earnest is an expert. Ironically, he’s learned that most times, you must assume some risk to reduce and resolve it.

Scott Skidelsky, president of �ձ�����’s operations in Florida, praises, “Since joining �ձ�����, Earnest has been an incredible asset to the leadership of Florida serving his capacity as division counsel and business partner. He’s the perfect fit for our culture.”

In 2019, Earnest was promoted to vice president of legal for Florida. He has proven his expertise, but what makes him truly valuable is his ability to teach his teammates the importance of managing risk properly: taking measured risks, learning and improving constantly and spreading the wealth along the way.

Building Relationships, Teams and Solutions

“You have to be willing to step up and take responsibility for the situation at any given moment, in any sector of our work, and try to make a difference in every way possible.”

John started his career as an intern with �ձ�����’s Houston office. After he received his degree in 2013, he was assigned to serve as senior project engineer on the South Bend Memorial Children’s Hospital expansion. In addition to his role as senior project engineer, John also led the project’s Building Information Modeling (BIM) coordination. He participated in a very involved BIM coordination process which provided all stakeholders with a continuous, real-time flow of information, enabling the team to make informed decisions regarding sequencing and quality control on the project. John and the team developed many precedent-setting techniques that have been implemented as a best practice on current �ձ����� projects.

John now works in Austin as an assistant superintendent on The Independent - a multifamily project that soars 670 above the downtown area, making it the tallest building in Austin. As steward of �ձ�����’s Zero Harm program on the project, John’s number one priority is safety. He prides himself on taking ownership of safety for the entire project family. If he sees something on the project that looks unsafe, he starts a dialogue about it without delay. “What I feel to be unsafe isn’t always against the rules, but from my training with some remarkable superintendents, I’ve learned that safety is not just about the rules. Safety is about using your instincts to see potential risks and then figuring out how to eliminate or mitigate the risk for everyone’s benefit. We want to ensure everyone goes home to their friends and family, every day,” shared John.

His favorite part of being a member of a construction team on a large project like The Independent or the South Bend Memorial Children’s Hospital expansion is applying what he has learned and on a much larger scale. “Providing solutions-oriented results to help a client or a team reach their business goals is a remarkable feeling and extremely gratifying.” He takes great pride in noting the �ձ����� projects across Austin and being able to say, “I helped build that!”

As part of �ձ�����’s unique brand of construction, we strive to be active participants in the needs of those communities in which we work and play. John was instrumental in initiating a fundraising campaign featuring a rubber duck race in downtown South Bend along the St. Joseph River to benefit South Bend Memorial Children’s Hospital. When he returned to Texas, he was involved in coordinating �ձ�����'s participation in the Austin Duck Derby, which supports the Boys and Girls Clubs of Austin.

When asked about being a Relentless Ally John answered humbly, “You have to be willing to step up and take responsibility for the situation at any given moment, in any sector of our work, and try to make a difference in every way possible.”

A Family that Grows Together Stays Together

When someone says that the people they work with are family to them, they don’t usually mean that literally. But for Rachele Phariss, the story is different. 

From a young age, Rachele knew she wanted to pursue a career in the construction industry. She was fortunate enough to have an extraordinary science teacher who got her involved in a math, science and engineering program. Rachele was fascinated with the connection between these subjects and fell in love with the notion of helping build something impactful for her community.

She continued to pursue this passion during college, majoring in civil engineering at the University of California, Davis. While in her senior year, Rachele discovered �ձ�����’s internship program.

“My boyfriend at the time was interning at �ձ�����, so I knew about the opportunity through him,” says Rachele. “I was lucky enough to intern right in the middle of construction on the Freeport Regional Water Intake Facility in Sacramento, and once I graduated, they hired me.”

As a full-time employee, Rachele had the opportunity to finish out the project she had started as an intern. Rachele’s boyfriend was also hired after his internship, and the two quickly became a �ձ����� couple. 

“And now I’m married to him,” says Rachele. Just like that, Balfour was family.

Eleven years later, Rachele still boasts about the home she’s found within the company. She’s worked on numerous different civils projects, ranging from large-scale water projects to joint ventures between our infrastructure and rail teams, some of which she’s been able to work on with her husband. To Rachele, every project in unique, not just thanks to its learning opportunities, but also in the connections she forms with her fellow project team members.

“It’s our interaction that is kind of like family,” says Rachele. “I always make a connection and long-lasting friendships with the people I’ve worked alongside.”

Rachele is currently contributing to �ձ�����’s most significant integrated U.S. Civils and Buildings project, the LAX Automated People Mover. In a field that’s largely still male-dominated, it’s the people on this job – specifically the women – who have surprised Rachele the most. 

“I used to be the only woman on the whole construction team,” says Rachele. “This megaproject is a good 50/50 mixture. I am seeing more women out there. I think it’s good. Something is changing, and it’s changing for the better.”

Rachele is deeply grateful for the growth and development opportunities has been afforded at �ձ�����. Between the relationships she’s built and the knowledge she’s acquired from her projects, Rachele is not the same shy intern she was when she started; she’s found her voice and her purpose. And she wouldn’t have it any other way.

“�ձ����� cares about its people. That’s why I was attracted to this company, and it’s why I stay,” praises Rachele. “They really do treat us like family. My husband and I joke that our kids are going to be Balfour people, too.”

Paul Chang, preconstruction manager for �ձ����� in California, was awarded with the Albert R. Vallin Award for Estimator of the Year. With an impressive history of project estimating, Paul also proudly serves as the President of the American Society of Professional Estimators’ (ASPE) San Diego chapter where he promotes education, fellowship and professional development to ASPE members and the community alike.

Paul is originally from Peru and holds a technical degree in diversified tool & die stamping, a bachelor’s degree in business administration and management and is a Certified Professional Estimator (CPE).

Early on, Paul’s interest in construction began while he was working in the mechanical industry in Sao Paulo, Brazil. From there, his career took him to Nagoya, Japan, where he continued in the mechanical industry for another two years. Paul then made the move to the U.S., where he began working as an estimator in training with another general contractor in Dallas, TX.

Now, with 22 years of experience under his belt, Paul utilizes his expertise to help build educational facilities, hospitals, military projects and civic facilities among other markets. Paul is reshaping preconstruction by applying skills and practices he has learned and developed on his path through the trades.

His experiences in the field give him a tangible understanding of how projects develop and insight into creating a successful building experience. He has an instinctive passion to teach and innovate, fueled by a relentless curiosity and drive to employ best practices. In his current role, Paul is responsible for preparing budgets, estimates and pre-bid packages for future construction projects for �ձ�����’s Southern California clients.

Congratulations Paul on achieving this accolade! Your hard work and determination are making a mark on �ձ�����, the local community and the industry as a whole. 

Melissa Thacker has always had a healthy curiosity for the world. As a kid she often took things apart just to see if she could put them back together. “One time I took apart my brother’s gaming system,” she chuckles, “he was not happy.”

Melissa’s first exposure to construction came through her mom, who owned a pool construction company. Even at a young age Melissa was involved in the business, helping to install and repair equipment -  but she had other plans in mind for her own career path.

After serious consideration of law, journalism and advertising, Melissa was finally confident that she knew her career destiny: construction management. Any concerns about working in a male-dominated industry were brushed aside - with the benefit of her mom’s wise experience and encouragement.

Melissa first came to our attention while competing in a student competition run by the Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) that asks students to create Request for Proposals (RFPs) based on real-life projects.

�ձ����� was assigned to review Melissa’s team’s RFP on-site at the Loews Sapphire Falls Resort. According to the team, Melissa was a stand-out performer who immediately impressed with her aptitude and thought-provoking questions. It wasn’t long before Melissa herself was part of the team, with two successful back-to-back summer internships.

During her internships with �ձ�����, Melissa contributed to three major projects – including retail, residential and hospitality/entertainment. She also had the opportunity to be mentored by some of Florida’s most influential operations leaders, including Andrew Marshall, senior project manager; Neal Ernest, general superintendent; Ryan Walters, project engineer; and Brian Prebenda, vice president of operations.

“Neal and I often had lunch together, and we would talk about my future career and interests,” recalls Melissa. “It was always clear that the team wanted me to do whatever was best for me, and we would talk a lot about what that could be.”

In the end, Melissa determined that the personal investment demonstrated by her leaders meant �ձ����� was the right company for her. When an opportunity came up for a full-time time position she accepted immediately.

“No company gave me the same feeling,” says Melissa. “Although it’s one of the largest construction companies in the nation, it feels more like a family - something I feel is hard to find.”

Now a proud graduate of the University of Florida and a full-time �ձ����� teammate, Melissa is encouraging of anyone who is considering an internship. “From hands-on field experiences to teambuilding activities with executive leadership, the internship experience here is second-to-none. I don’t think I would have developed the relationships that I have in this company without having gone through the internship program, “says Melissa.

As a project engineer, Melissa can now appreciate how her interests have evolved from takings things apart and rebuilding them - to building huge structures from scratch with a team of great leaders and friends around her.

It seems the same curiosity that fueled Melissa as a child is still alive and well in this talented young professional who is only just beginning to make her mark.