Letter from Todd

Happy Holidays!

Somehow 2024 seemed to move by even more quickly than 2023. While things don't stop during the holidays, this time of year does help provide all of us a reminder of all of the things we are thankful for, especially the relationships that have been made.

As I reflect on the past year, I am incredibly thankful for another successful and safe year of construction. We were part of many impactful projects that will benefit our communities for years to come. Our employees, clients, and industry partners are second to none and our success would not be possible without you.

To our clients, thank you for trusting our team's ability and talents for your projects.

To our industry partners, thank you for your services that help make Hardman Construction the best company we can be.

And last but certainly not least, to our team members, thank you for choosing to work with us; thank you for sharing your talents with us; and thank you for allowing us to share in your day to day lives. We appreciate all you put into the company to make us who we are.

I look forward to seeing what 2025 will bring us as a team. We will continue to invest in our company and employees, work with our clients and industry partners, and build great projects. But most importantly, there is no doubt we will have some fun along the way.

From the entire Hardman Construction family, we wish you the happiest holiday season!

It wouldn't be a Hardman Construction Christmas without photos.

Enjoy a look back on the many memorable moments we shared with one another.

FIVE YEAR ANNIVERSARY

Jake Anderson, Crew Leader

Jake Anderson’s journey to Hardman Construction is one that is somewhat familiar in our industry. Jake spent a year or so trying to figure out what he wanted to do after he graduated from high school. On a chance conversation with our VP of Geotechnical Engineering, Jake applied to Hardman Construction—and are we ever thankful he did!

Jake started his career as a Carpenter Apprentice. It was very apparent early on that he had natural skills and ability for our work. He graduated from his apprenticeship program and shortly after began training toward a role in a leadership capacity. He is now relied upon as the #2 person to his Superintendent and provides extra support to ensure projects are a success.

We are excited to watch Jake grow as he continues to train and find his leadership voice. Having him on our team makes us better!

Kyle Fisher, Crew Leader

As somewhat of a contrast to the previous career journey, Kyle Fisher was one of those individuals who knew exactly what he wanted to do for his career. Prior to his graduation from high school, Kyle was on track to come work for Hardman Construction and join the team as a Carpenter Apprentice. He had met the Human Resources Manager during one of her visits to the local Construction Trades class and immediately made an impression of being a good person to add to the team.

Kyle has been a reliable member of the Hardman Construction team. He isn’t afraid to learn new things, work in new locations, or take on new challenges. At the beginning of the year, Kyle took on the challenge of being the #2 person for his Superintendent. His growth within that program has been exciting to see and we are looking forward to continuing to see his growth through year two.

The team appreciates the dedication and hard work Kyle puts in every day!

Mike Rossiter, Truck Driver

When Mike Rossiter started with Hardman Construction, he was able to jump right in. Mike had previously driven for other companies and was able to use the skills he had gained to help the HCI team. However, what really marked Mike’s ability to make an impact was his willingness to do anything and his natural fit into the team. On top of that, he works safely and efficiently.

Mike can typically be found with a smile on his face. Even through tough, long days, Mike remains positive. He has a can-do attitude and makes route changes on the fly without complaint. Knowing he is out on the road provides a sense of calm—the team knows he will do what it takes, but most importantly, do it safely.

Fun fact, Mike was nicknamed Rooster during one of his first deliveries and the name has stuck. We are happy Rooster has decided to make HCI his team! 

Steve Savich, Field Mechanic

Steve Savich is a Field Mechanic at Hardman Construction, but if we really broke down what Steve does on a daily basis, his title would be something more like the “Fixer of all Things”. When Steve started at HCI it was clear he had a lot of mechanical talent. He quickly jumped into the fold and became a relied upon mechanic for the field. He is often specifically called upon to fix certain pieces of equipment.

Many times when a piece of equipment is down, all production stops. There is a lot of pressure on the Field Mechanic to fix the problem, fix it correctly, and fix it quickly. Steve immediately knew the importance of working efficiently. From the day he started to even now, it isn’t uncommon to see him speed walking (while doing it safely!) on the jobsite. Best yet, he fixes the problem thoroughly and never leaves a jobsite without asking if there is anything else needed besides the fix he called for.

Steve is looked upon as a trusted mechanic for Hardman Construction. We appreciate everything Steve does for our team!

Jake Schaedler, Heavy Equipment Operator

Jake Schaedler started at Hardman Construction as a Heavy Equipment Operator, operating pieces of equipment such as excavators and front-end loaders. He had previous experience in those types of equipment and soon after he started with HCI, it was apparent he had natural talent. Because of his talent, Jake was asked to begin running our specialty drill rigs.

Jake has become one of HCI’s trusted drill rig operators. While he still operates other pieces of equipment from time to time, Jake is called upon to run the specialty drill rigs for some of our toughest jobs. He is not only knowledgeable about the equipment, but he understands construction and the processes behind our techniques.

Having Jake on the HCI team has been a pleasure and we look forward to many more years to come!

TEN YEAR ANNIVERSARY

Jason Schaedler, Superintendent

When Jason Schaedler started at Hardman Construction 10 years ago, it was easy to see he was going to become a leader in the field for the Company one day. He possessed a desire to lead others that was undeniable. Today, Jason handles some of our most difficult projects and welcomes the challenges with open arms.

On the outside, Jason reminds anyone of a typical Superintendent. He has a firm, no nonsense approach to problems. He can motivate and direct his crews to perform at top-level, while consistently delivering end products above the standards of our clients. However, what really sets Jason apart is his pride in his work, Hardman Construction, and our team. He is constantly thinking about what he can do to make processes better and is willing to share those ideas. He understands that training and providing knowledge to others makes him a better leader.

We are happy Jason continues to be on the Hardman Construction and look forward to seeing what his leadership brings us in the years to come!

FIFTEEN YEAR ANNIVERSARY

Dave DeClerck, Project Manager

Dave’s career at Hardman Construction started when he was a young intern out in the field, laboring with and learning from our crews. After graduation from college, he started in a full-time capacity as a Field Engineer, and then took on his current role as a Project Manager with HCI. He is looked to as a leader to help solve and alleviate problems for our crews in the field.

Dave’s career has really been full circle. When he started as an intern, he relied on his managers to help guide his development. Dave is now helping guide the development of the next generation of leaders for the company.

One of Dave’s best qualities is his ability to keep the work fun. Our industry is riddled with long days in sometimes less than ideal weather conditions. Being able to see the bright side of the work or provide comedic relief is much needed at times. Dave also understands people. He can find ways to motivate others to believe in their abilities and try new things.

The team at Hardman Construction appreciates Dave’s humor, candidness, and most importantly, leadership within the company. We look forward to working with Dave for years to come!

THIRTY-FIVE YEAR ANNIVERSARY

Todd Schrader, President

What can we say about our fearless leader? After 35 years at Hardman Construction, Todd Schrader has seen it all—and almost done it all too! 

Todd has worn many hats over the years at HCI. He started his career as a Project Engineer, moved into a Project Manager role, and landed as President for Hardman Construction. While those are simply titles, the real impact Todd has made on our company and team are almost impossible to put into words. He has helped make and keep Hardman Construction an industry leader in the geotechnical and bridge building worlds. 

Todd’s passion for the construction industry is contagious. Even after all his years in the industry, there is no question that he seems to be happiest when he is out on the jobsite or when he can “geek out” with other industry professionals about new equipment, techniques, or processes. He is very hard-working and has very high standards, but he does not expect any employee at HCI to do something he is unwilling to do himself. 

However, Todd’s quality of character is probably the best thing about him. He is a gracious leader who is always personally thanking employees for what they do for the company. Many times, new hires are surprised to find out Todd is the President at Hardman Construction because he is so approachable and willing to do any task.

Todd has certainly made a mark on the construction industry, Hardman Construction, and all those who have been team members at HCI. Hardman Construction would not be the same without his leadership. We are lucky to have you, Todd!

Congratulations!

After a long, storied, and successful career, Tom Monton has decided to take a much deserved rest from the construction industry and begin his retirement. As Todd Schrader put it:

"Tommy's work ethic is second to none and his impact on me, the team, and this company is immeasurable. He has set the bar high, embodying the 'Hardman Tough' spirit in every sense of the word. His legacy will stick with this company for well into the future. He will be missed more than he knows.

Lastly, I want to thank him for all of the fun along the ride. He made it enjoyable!"

Tommy, saying thank you doesn't even scratch the surface of how appreciated you are. Enjoy this next chapter...but promise you will stop in for a visit!