FROM THE FIELD
Engaging the Community
The Gerken Companies in Action
At The Gerken Companies, fostering strong connections within our community is just as important as our work in construction and quarrying. In March, our team members took significant steps to engage with local students and share our passion for the industry.
One exciting initiative was a visit from students at Vantage Career Center, who toured The Custar Stone Co. The students had the unique opportunity to witness a quarry blast firsthand, offering a thrilling glimpse into the stone industry.
Team members Jason Asmus, Kevin Maasel, Dave Keifer, and Joe St. John led the experience, showcasing the skills and knowledge necessary for success in quarrying and construction. It’s moments like these that inspire the next generation of workers, helping them understand the various career paths available in our field.
In addition to inspiring students, we also value partnerships with local educational institutions. For instance, Andrew Marihugh, our Quality Control Manager at Kuhlman Corporation, recently shared his expertise with the Concrete 101 class at Bowling Green State University.
The Concrete 101 program emphasizes hands-on learning, focusing on the nuances of ready-mix operations and modern construction techniques. Engaging with students in this way not only educates them about industry standards but also helps bridge the gap between classroom theory and real-world application.
We also hosted civil engineering students from the University of Toledo at Kuhlman Corporation’s Yard 1. Along with their professor, Dr. Liangbo Hu, the students explored our facilities and witnessed science and technology in action. By exposing students to our operations, we help them appreciate the importance of practical experience in their studies and reinforce their knowledge of civil and environmental engineering principles.
Beyond education, we’ve actively participated in community events, such as the FFA District Contests at the Four County Career Center, where Gerken’s own Carl Pippin served as a judge. The event brought together talented students from various districts to exhibit their agriculture and leadership skills.
By being involved in such events, we aim to inspire young leaders and foster a spirit of collaboration and growth.
Members of The Gerken Companies also attended the CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 in Las Vegas. The once-every-three-years event is North America’s largest construction trade show, bringing together contractors, manufacturers, technology leaders, and workforce advocates.
More than 140,000 construction professionals from 128 countries gathered to purchase equipment, conduct business, and explore the latest innovations shaping the industry.
Additionally, our presence at Flexible Pavements of Ohio’s 2026 Ohio Asphalt Expo allowed us to connect with industry peers and community members. Networking at conferences helps us share ideas and experiences while staying up to date on emerging trends and technologies that impact our field.
Doug Willeman and Jim Shoemaker show their support for the Woman of Asphalt organization.
Finally, Talent Acquisition Manager Hanna Myers attended Holgate FAA’s inaugural Northwest Ohio Ag Expo, where she connected with members exploring agricultural innovations. Engaging with the agricultural community highlights the interconnected nature of our industries and encourages students to consider Gerken as a potential employer.
At The Gerken Companies, our commitment to community engagement is unwavering. By investing time in local education and industry events, we strive to create a lasting impact that transcends our daily operations. Together, we can build a brighter future for our community and the industries we serve.
