Izaak Harvey describes himself as “just a simple country kid with a fancy piece of paper that says otherwise.”

Hailing from Mishicot, a quaint town in northeast Wisconsin with fewer than 1,500 residents. Izaak’s work ethic began early. At just ten years old, he started laboring on local farms—picking stones from fields, bailing hay, and tackling various odd jobs. The “fancy piece of paper” he jokes about is a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Michigan Technological University, which laid the foundation for the career he would eventually forge.

Izaak joined The Gerken Companies’ Ready-Mix and Building Materials division in early 2024. As the Fixed and Portable Plant Maintenance Manager, he oversees upkeep for eleven plants. He troubleshoots issues, plans for extended outages, and does whatever else is needed to keep production running smoothly.

“I like to say, ‘You crash, I dash,’” he quips, reflecting on his problem-solving role.

Before transitioning to Gerken, Izaak worked in the steel industry for companies such as US Steel and Cleveland-Cliffs. As a supervisor at mills in Gary, Indiana, and Detroit, Michigan, he developed a reputation for his willingness to jump in and get his hands dirty. Hundred-hour workweeks, harsh working conditions, and layers of bureaucracy were commonplace, so he seized the opportunity when an online advertisement for a position at Gerken caught his attention.

“I’m definitely hands-on and a bit rough around the edges,” he admits, recognizing those traits as assets in his current position.

Early Inspiration

Izaak has a passion for technology that comes from his family. Like his father and late grandfather, he identifies as a technocrat, valuing science and technical knowledge for their potential to solve societal challenges.

His grandfather, a naval aircraft mechanic raised during the Great Depression, ensured that education was a priority for his children. Izaak’s father followed a similar path, running a nuclear power plant and continuing the family tradition of technical prowess.

“Most of my conversations with my father evolve into technical shop talk,” says Izaak. “Science is our first language.”

Embracing the Outdoors

Away from work, Izaak remains connected to his Wisconsin roots. A devoted Green Bay Packers fan (yes, he is a proud stockholder), he revels in outdoor pursuits such as hunting, fishing, backpacking, and cruising in the speedboat he refurbished.

“If I’m outdoors, I’m happy,” he shares, adding that he enjoys winter and snow.

In addition to his love for outdoor adventures, Izaak is an avid nonfiction reader with a keen interest in historical events and technological advancements. He is a budding woodworker who crafts coffee and end tables from trees he cuts down. Moreover, he has recently taken up gardening and blacksmithing, further fostering his connection to the hands-on work he loves.

A self-professed “chronic bachelor,” Izaak does not want to remain single forever. He hopes to find someone who complements his life and shares his passions.

Izaak Harvey’s blend of practicality and modesty reminds us that success is not about flashy accomplishments. It’s about passion, perseverance, and a willingness to learn. Whether managing plants at Gerken, engaging in hands-on hobbies, or embracing the great outdoors, Izaak’s is an inspiring story of humble roots and technical know-how, proving that even the simplest beginnings can lead to remarkable achievements.