In an impressive collaboration, Gerken Paving, Inc. has partnered with the Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP) K-9 unit to provide training sites that mirror real-world scenarios. The initiative, taking place in our Napoleon and Milan locations, provides optimal environments for K-9 teams to sharpen their tracking and location skills.

The OSHP has gained national recognition as a leader in criminal enforcement and drug interdiction, largely due to the effectiveness of its K-9 units. These furry partners are trained in various specialties, including narcotics detection, tracking, and explosive detection, and have proven to be invaluable resources in the ongoing fight against crime.

One of the most commendable aspects of the K-9 program is the extraordinary intuition and expertise these dogs bring to the field. Many of them are adept at locating evidence discarded from vehicles or dropped by suspects during foot pursuits. Beyond their role in apprehension, several K-9s also assist in the search for missing individuals, including vulnerable populations such as children and elderly persons who may wander away from safe surroundings.

The canine stars of this program are primarily Belgian Malinois and German Shepherds, known for their intelligence, agility, and strong work ethic. These remarkable dogs serve a dual purpose: they act as defenders of justice during work hours and cherished companions to their handler families outside of duty, enjoying life in a nurturing home environment.

The commitment to excellence shown by both Gerken Paving and the OSHP demonstrates how effective partnerships can lead to meaningful advancements in public safety. Together, we are not just training dogs—we are enhancing law enforcement capabilities and building a stronger, more secure Ohio for all its residents.

As we celebrate the achievements of these K-9 units, let’s take a moment to appreciate the hard work and dedication of both the canines and their human counterparts. Their relentless pursuit of justice and safety makes a remarkable difference in our lives every day.

As excitement builds for the 2026 season at Cedar Point, Gerken Paving, Inc. is proud to be part of the preparations. Our Milan location has been diligently working on paving sections of the Cedar Point Causeway, ensuring everything is ready for the theme park’s highly anticipated opening day on Saturday, May 9.

“Our crews have worked hard this spring to stay ahead of schedule across three key projects, each with interim completion dates coordinated around opening day,” says Jarod Lombardi, Area Manager at Gerken Paving. “I’m proud of the team’s commitment to delivering quality work safely and on time.”

Lombardi says special credit goes to field leadership and crews, whose professionalism kept the projects moving despite the tight deadlines and significant scheduling coordination. “Their unwavering efforts truly reflect our core values at The Gerken Companies, where we consistently strive for precision and efficiency in everything we do,” he adds.

We are excited to play a part in making this season a memorable one for all Cedar Point visitors.

The City of Sandusky has scheduled a massive, multi-year rehabilitation project to expand the Cedar Point Causeway to five lanes, set to begin later this year.

Noah Blankenship grew up in Archbold, Ohio, in a typical suburban family with two working parents and a sister. He attended Archbold High School, where he ran track and cross-country. “Running was the one sport I was good at; I was fast and could run in a straight line,” he jokes. During his junior and senior years, Noah attended the Four County Career Center, where he gained valuable skills that would benefit him in the future.

After high school, Noah enrolled at Northwest State Community College to pursue a degree in criminal justice. Driven by his passion for hunting and fishing, he aspired to become a Department of Natural Resources (DNR) officer. However, his early career took an unexpected turn when he took on jobs making deliveries for Fulton Lumber and working in carpentry at Schuette Construction. It was during this time that Noah developed a passion for the construction industry, which would eventually lead him to his current role.

An Unexpected Path

In April 2021, a fortunate discovery changed the course of Noah’s career. He stumbled upon The Gerken Companies’ career page online and applied for a position at the truck washing center. That initial role paved the way for his eventual transition into quality control at M&R Ready Mix, Inc., where he now thrives.

In his current position, Noah focuses on two main aspects: quality control and customer service. His work involves considerable behind-the-scenes effort, including making adjustments and conducting pre-pour meetings to ensure everything runs smoothly.

“Concrete changes daily, so we are always testing,” he explains. “Experience is what sets Gerken apart in the ready-mix business. While some companies might have just one or two certified testers, we have three quality control technicians, a quality control manager, and a quality control technical salesperson. All our field managers hold ACI field-testing certifications, and more positions are getting certified every day.”

As one of the first people to arrive at the plant, Noah is responsible for loading and testing the first truck. His role extends to the job sites, where he collaborates closely with third-party testers and acts as a crucial liaison between M&R and project contractors. “I get to work with a lot of wonderful people,” Noah says, expressing gratitude for his coworkers. “The drivers, batchmen, and loaders are all great—not just here at work, but as part of our community.”

Beyond the technicalities of his work, Noah takes immense pride in the projects M&R has completed. “I love pointing out to friends the projects we’ve been part of,” he adds.

Personal Life

Outside of work, Noah and his wife, Madison, are looking forward to celebrating their third anniversary in June. They cherish their roles as parents to their two-year-old daughter, Phoebe. Their family enjoys traveling, and they have fond memories of their honeymoon in Europe, where Madison affectionately teased Noah about his fixation on the local concrete trucks.

Noah’s hobbies are equally rooted in his love for the outdoors, including golf, hunting, and fishing. A long-time member of Pheasants Forever, he actively contributes to the organization’s mission of conserving wildlife through habitat improvements, public access, education, and conservation advocacy.

Interestingly, Noah is open about his personal journey with social anxiety, often feeling nervous around new acquaintances. “But once I get past the initial meeting, I talk their legs off,” he jokes, showcasing his warm and approachable personality.

One thing that Noah particularly appreciates is the significant investment The Gerken Companies has made in his training. He feels strongly committed to repaying that investment by giving his best at work every day.

“Knowing that the owners of the company live in our community gives me a sense of security,” he notes, reinforcing his pride in being part of the organization.

At Kuhlman Corporation, a key player in the masonry and water & sewer trades, the spotlight often shines on our sales professionals and the quality products we offer. However, there’s an important group of individuals whose hard work and dedication fuel our operations daily: our warehouse workers. These unsung heroes, known in the industry as Warehousemen, play a crucial role in ensuring that everything runs smoothly behind the scenes and support our commitment to excellence in building materials distribution.

The Backbone of Warehouse Operations

Warehouse workers are the foundation of Kuhlman’s operations, responsible for receiving, storing, and distributing materials. In our busy warehouses located in Toledo and Akron, these team members work tirelessly to maintain an efficient flow of products. From operating forklifts and end loaders to ensuring accurate inventory management, their attention to detail guarantees that every order is fulfilled on time and correctly.

The day-to-day tasks of Kuhlman warehouse workers are diverse and physically demanding. They begin by unloading incoming materials from various vehicles, including flatbed trailers or box trucks. Then they take on the vital responsibility of managing inventory, which involves everything from counting stock to palletizing outbound shipments.

Safety is a top priority in our warehouses. Our warehouse workers learn to operate heavy machinery, such as forklifts and end loaders, ensuring that all material movements happen securely and efficiently. What’s more, their commitment to maintaining a clean and organized workspace contributes to a safe environment for everyone involved.

Customer Interaction and Service

While warehouse workers are often out of the customer’s view, their role often includes direct interaction with clients.

By providing exceptional customer service through clear, courteous communication, they help ensure customer orders are accurate, process returns swiftly, and respond to questions promptly. Such interactions exemplify Kuhlman’s commitment to quality service and satisfaction.

To succeed in their role, warehouse workers must possess strong communication skills and a solid understanding of building materials. Familiarity with concrete products and their applications can be beneficial, as it allows them to support customers effectively. A high school diploma or equivalent, along with a minimum of two years of work experience—preferably in a construction-related field—is also necessary for thriving in our environment.

Acknowledging Their Contribution

As we reflect on our day-to-day operations at Kuhlman Corporation, it’s essential to recognize the vital role warehouse workers play in our success. They work diligently, often in challenging weather conditions, and their dedication frequently goes unnoticed. By ensuring that our inventories are well-managed and handled with care, they help Kuhlman maintain its reputation as one of the region’s leading wholesale distributors of building materials.

In conclusion, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the warehouse workers at Kuhlman Corporation for their hard work, dedication, and commitment to excellence. You are the unsung heroes who enable us to deliver the quality and service our clients have come to expect. Together, we are building a strong foundation for the future.

The roots of NWZAW date back over 20 years, originating in 1997 from a dedicated group of Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) employees. Recognizing the need to raise awareness around work zone safety just ahead of the busy construction season, they initiated a week-long campaign. The initiative’s growth was remarkable, leading to a collaborative effort with various national organizations, including the American Traffic Safety Services Association (ATSSA) and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). By 2000, NWZAW had evolved into a national kickoff event that continues to engage communities nationwide.

The Stark Reality

Statistics from the National Work Zone Safety Information Clearinghouse are sobering. In 2023 alone, there were 818 fatal crashes in work zones, leading to 899 fatalities, including 176 pedestrians. These numbers emphasize that work zones can be dangerous environments not just for construction workers but also for motorists, passengers, and pedestrians. That reality highlights the crucial role we all play in ensuring safety in these zones.

This year, NWZAW encourages everyone to take part in “Go Orange Day” on Wednesday, April 22. Wearing orange serves as a visual reminder of work zone safety and demonstrates your support for safe actions. Additionally, on Friday, April 24, join in a moment of silence to honor those who lost their lives in work zone incidents. It’s an opportunity to reflect on the importance of safety and to commit to making our roadways safer for everyone.

Throughout National Work Zone Awareness Week, various state transportation departments, federal agencies, and organizations will host events and distribute public service announcements aimed at raising awareness of work zone safety. Partners in this initiative, including the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), are working diligently to spread this essential message.

Why It Matters

The message of NWZAW resonates with all of us: every action taken to promote safety in work zones can ultimately save lives. By staying informed and vigilant, we can help ensure that our loved ones and those working on our roadways make it home safely each day.

To learn more about this important cause, visit nwzaw.org. Let’s all commit to safe actions and become advocates for work zone safety, making our roads safer for everyone.

Together, we can make a difference.

As The Gerken Companies gears up for another exciting construction season with numerous projects on the horizon, now is the perfect time for employees to recommend our organization to friends and family. Positive feedback from our current team members highlights the company’s commitment to creating a supportive and rewarding work environment. Below is a list of qualities that employees proudly share with their loved ones about working at The Gerken Companies, showcasing the unique benefits and opportunities that make this a great place to work.

1. A Family-First Culture
At The Gerken Companies, the work environment feels like a big family. Employees rave about how leadership fosters a “small business” atmosphere, despite the company’s growth to more than 600 men and women. The genuine care for personal well-being is evident, making everyone feel valued.

2. Making a Difference in the Community
There’s a profound sense of pride among employees in their work. By constructing vital infrastructure such as roads and highways, they contribute directly to the well-being of the communities where they live. It’s more than just a job; it’s part of building America.

3. Safety is a Top Priority
At The Gerken Companies, safety is not merely a protocol; it’s a core value that shapes the company culture. Employees appreciate how the company views safety through the lens of protecting family members. The numerous Excellence in Safety Awards from organizations such as OAIMA highlight this commitment.

4. Career Longevity and Growth Opportunities
The Gerken Companies is known for transforming entry-level jobs into lifelong careers. Many employees have been with the company for decades, frequently moving across departments as new sectors, such as concrete and transportation, expand. That career growth opportunity fosters loyalty and fulfillment among team members.

5. Investment in High-Quality Equipment
With a strong emphasis on efficient and safe work practices, The Gerken Companies invests heavily in state-of-the-art machinery and technology. Employees have access to top-notch tools that make their jobs easier and more efficient, boosting job satisfaction.

6. An Award-Winning Reputation
There’s a strong sense of pride among employees in being part of an award-winning team. Recognized locally and nationally for quality in asphalt paving and construction, employees enjoy being part of such a respected organization.

7. Commitment to Professional Development
The Gerken Companies believes in empowering its employees through continuous training and professional development opportunities. The availability of paid internships and hands-on learning ensures that newcomers are well-prepared for a successful career in the construction industry.

8. Deep Local Roots and Stability
With a long and storied history throughout Northwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan, The Gerken Companies provide employees with a stable job environment. We have multiple generations of the same families working within the organization, enhancing the community feel.

9. Collaborative Team Environment
The sense of camaraderie among employees is evident. They value an inclusive work environment where teamwork thrives, and the spirit of “everyone helps everyone” shines through. It creates a well-oiled machine mentality that drives ambitious projects forward.

10. Robust Community Involvement
Employees take pride in The Gerken Companies’ active role in the community. From supporting local organizations such as 4-H to education programs that raise awareness of construction careers, the company remains committed to giving back.

As we continue to grow, bringing in new opportunities and challenges, it presents an excellent opportunity for those within the Gerken community to recommend a workplace that genuinely values its employees. If you know someone looking for a fulfilling career in construction, please encourage them to join us and play a vital role in building a better future together.

High school sports are much more than just competitions; they are vibrant displays of commitment, teamwork, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. Recognizing this spirit, The Gerken Companies, in partnership with Black Swamp Football, established the Gerken ROCK-SOLID PERFORMANCE of the Week Award. This initiative honors high school football teams in Northwest Ohio that consistently demonstrate hard work and remarkable effort, in line with The Gerken Companies‘ core values.

Presented weekly, the prestigious Gerken ROCK-SOLID PERFORMANCE of the Week award highlights teams that embody the “rock-solid” mindset. The term “rock-solid performance,” drawn from our company’s tagline, symbolizes a steadfast commitment to reliability and excellence—qualities essential to developing athletes on and off the field. The award transcends mere wins; it’s a heartfelt celebration of those who invest extra effort and show unwavering dedication to their passions.

The Selection Process

The selection of award recipients is not a task taken lightly. Black Swamp Football analysts Lynn Groll, Tory Strock, and Dave Krauss bring their expertise and keen insights to the forefront, ensuring that the awards recognize truly deserving teams. Winning teams come from 55 high schools across Northwest Ohio, with each week’s winners announced on the Black Swamp Football podcast and highlighted on Gerken’s website and social media platforms. This multifaceted approach guarantees that these remarkable efforts receive the recognition they deserve within their communities.

Since the award’s inception in 2024, numerous teams have distinguished themselves with awe-inspiring performances. Take Liberty Center, for instance, which captured hearts with a thrilling come-from-behind victory against Archbold, winning 33–14 and clinching the NWOAL title on October 24, 2025. The Anna Rockets also showcased tremendous resilience, bouncing back from a tough loss to secure a vital win over Coldwater on September 17, 2025, proving that determination pays off.

Columbus Grove demonstrated their defensive strength in Week 3 of 2024 with a solid 27–13 triumph over Patrick Henry, aided by five crucial takeaways. We can’t forget Napoleon, the inaugural award winner, who thrilled fans with a nail-biting 35–34 overtime victory against Defiance in Week 1 of 2024, perfectly encapsulating the high-stakes excitement of the season.

Each remarkable performance illustrates not only athletic talent but also the spirit of teamwork and resolute determination that are essential in high school sports. It’s no wonder those very qualities are what Gerken looks for in its future employees. Our commercials during the podcast serve as a reminder that we are always seeking “rock-solid” performers.

Beyond Football: Expanding into Basketball

Beginning in 2025, the partnership extended into the winter months with a special “Hoops Edition” that recognizes exceptional men’s and women’s high school basketball teams, such as the Anthony Wayne Lady Generals and the Toledo Central Catholic Fighting Irish. The expansion continued the celebration of hard work, commitment, and excellence into another season.

Conclusion

The Gerken ROCK-SOLID PERFORMANCE of the Week award is more than just a simple accolade; it’s a celebration of the hard work and dedication displayed by high school athletes across Northwest Ohio. As teams continue to strive for excellence, the award serves as a powerful reminder of the values that define successful athletes and the spirit of high school sports. Stay tuned for the upcoming announcements and watch as new teams rise to the occasion, showcasing what it truly means to be “rock solid.”

“Some clients seem skeptical when I arrive driving my M&R Ready Mix truck,” says Spence Miller. “But their initial impressions quickly change once they see what I can accomplish.”

Spence’s journey to prove himself began early. At just two years old, he faced an unexpected challenge: a childhood accident resulted in him losing part of his arm. Rather than letting this define him, Spence chose to move forward, refusing to dwell on an incident that could have held him back.

“Some people ask me, ‘Why are you working? You should be on disability,” he reflects. “But I’ve never considered myself disabled.” Growing up on a dairy farm, his parents instilled in him values emphasizing equality and hard work. They treated him the same as his siblings, even when it came to sharing chores, which set a strong foundation for his resilience.

In high school, Spence continued to challenge perceptions of limitations by participating in sports—baseball, football, and wrestling. The stigma of disability never deterred him; instead, it fueled his determination to prove that limitations exist only if we allow them to.

“To me, disability is a mindset,” he says. “I never used having one arm as a crutch.” That perspective has not only shaped his personal journey but also the way he navigates life and work, inspiring those around him to view challenges as opportunities.

Spence grew up on a dairy farm, where he learned to drive trucks and tractors. He still has the more than 200-acre farm, but today it is primarily a livestock operation.

A lifelong resident of Wauseon, Ohio, Spence attended Pike-Delta-York schools. In eighth grade, he met a charming seventh-grader named Karen. They began dating during their final years of high school and got married just six months after his graduation. This year, they proudly celebrate their 41st wedding anniversary.

Karen describes Spence as fearless, responsible, hardworking, and loving. The humble Spence says he is simply a family man who does whatever he can for his loved ones.

Cultivating a Strong Work Ethic

Spence’s first job was at Cook’s department store in Wauseon, where he handled a variety of tasks, from operating the cash register to running the loading dock. The experience laid a solid foundation for his work ethic. After that, he worked for S-W Mills, an alfalfa products supplier in Archbold.

Early in their marriage, Spence and his family embarked on a new adventure by relocating to Martha’s Vineyard, a picturesque island in Massachusetts, just south of Cape Cod. His older brother and a cousin were already living there and told him about a job opportunity at a gas station.

It was during this period that Spence first became involved in the ready-mix business, setting the stage for his future career. In 1990, after two years on the island, they moved back to Wauseon, and Spence began working for M&R Redi Mix Trucking in Pettisville.

“M&R trained me well,” reflects Spence, thankful for the supportive environment fostered by management and coworkers alike. “The people were very nice, and the owner valued everyone’s opinion.” The Gerken Companies acquired M&R in 2019 and renamed it M&R Ready Mix. “Gerken kept everyone, which we all appreciated greatly.”

Family Values

Beyond work, Spence leads a fulfilling personal life with his wife, two daughters, and three grandchildren. They cherish their time together, especially during winters in Florida and family visits in Tennessee. Additionally, they find joy in exploring theme parks and playing miniature golf. Spence also has a passion for tinkering with cars and farm equipment, which keeps him engaged in his leisure time.

Professionally, Spence enjoys being on the road, visiting longtime customers, and meeting new ones. The long hours do not bother him—he’s used to waking up at 3:30 a.m. to milk the cows. His commitment to building relationships complements his dedication to work; Spence explains that he tries to get along with everyone.

Many people might be surprised to learn that, despite having only one arm, Spence was an exceptional high school baseball player. His talent was so noteworthy that it caught the attention of the 1980s reality television show, That’s Incredible!, which filmed a segment about him during his junior year. Unfortunately, ABC canceled the show before his segment aired.

Ultimately, Spence’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance. While many would see only the challenges he has overcome, he sees opportunities for personal growth. He maintains a positive attitude and is willing to help anyone who needs it. His infectious spirit not only inspires those around him but also serves as a reminder that our limitations are often self-imposed.