How would you describe your job?
I operate equipment, usually cranes – I’m also a certified evaluator for CCC, board member and SME (Subject Matter Expert) for the OECP, and a General Foreman for the Operators. I hire operators for the structural steel division and most of the crane operators that operate cranes or forklifts for the civil side, along with time, safety, etc.
What is your favorite part about your job?
I would say being part of this great CCC team and meeting new people who do different jobs throughout the company.
Why construction?
I am a 3rd generation Operating Engineer that operates cranes. My younger brother is also but he is in a different local and state. So I guess you could say it’s just in our blood and we were born to do it.
How would you describe CCC to someone outside the company?
CCC is an employee-owned company with many great career opportunities in construction. The employees are valued and respected here and every one has a voice. Safety is taken seriously and the safety triangle works when all sides are equal. Shop personnel, office personnel, safety professionals, trades in the field, and even higher management are willing to help whenever I’ve had questions or needed help.
What’s your best memory of working here?
It would have to be one of the many fun team building exercises that CCC does for its employees. From pheasant hunts and clay shoots to bowling and golf or card events, all the way to going out on boats and dinners. And let’s not forget the day when CC became an ESOP!
What does your typical workday look like?
I usually start the day an hours or so before the crew gets on site and get all my emails done, time for the men, and paperwork for the day. Then out to the equipment that I’m running if that’s what I’m doing that day. Maybe I’m heading to a different job site to evaluate an operator. Even after 6 years with the company, you just never know so it keeps it changing, challenging, and exciting.
What projects have you worked on that you find particularly interesting?
There are a couple that come to mind right away. The Edsel and Eleanor Ford House was super challenging and unique, but I also liked the University of Michigan Murchie Science Building. That was a fun project with a unique crane set up and awesome team from the Project Managers to the Tradesmen.
What skills are most valuable for this position?
Knowledge and experience. I’m not saying I have the most of either because I feel like there is something to be learned every day in our line of work. I want to show up, give it 100% every day, and learn as much as I can to help people to the best of my ability.
What do you like to do outside of work?
I really enjoy time with my family and dogs, but when it’s not family time, I race motocross and am a top 5 guy for my age group in Michigan. If it is family time, we try to go out on the lakes and go jet skiing or biking in the summer, and bowling in the winter. I guess I love anything that has a motor and goes fast. Maybe that’s why I love being an Operator!
Do you feel safe, valued, and heard in your role/with the company?
100% YES! I believe that CCC actually cares about and values the employees here. We aren’t just a number. I’ve seen proof of this and even personally experienced it.