At The Gerken Companies, we understand that any job application process can trigger questions along the way. Whether you’re curious about our hiring procedures, seeking tips to enhance your application, or wondering about our benefits package, we’re here to help. This compilation of common questions and detailed answers aims to provide clarity and support as you navigate your journey toward joining our team.

What types of positions are available at The Gerken Companies?
The Gerken Companies offers a variety of positions ranging from skilled trades to management roles. Our construction and materials supply business requires a diverse range of skill sets, including accountants, engineers, mechanics, counter salespeople, traffic coordinators, safety experts, and more. Visit our Careers page for the latest job openings.

What qualifications are required to apply?
Qualifications vary by position. Generally, a high school diploma or equivalent is required, along with specific certifications, licenses, or experience related to the job. Whether you have industry experience or are just starting your career, we encourage you to apply.

What is the application process like?
The application process involves reviewing job descriptions, submitting an online application, and potentially participating in interviews. We aim to keep applicants informed at each stage.

What is the company culture like at The Gerken Companies?
Gerken’s dedicated workforce comprises more than 600 men and women committed to delivering high-quality construction and responsive customer service. Our company culture emphasizes teamwork, respect, and safety. And we foster an inclusive environment where employees are encouraged to contribute ideas and grow professionally.

Does The Gerken Companies offer training and development programs?
Yes, we offer various training and development programs to help team members enhance their skills and advance their careers within the company. Our annual “GerCon” training forum features a two-day, conference-style format, providing networking opportunities and allowing attendees to visit the booths of various vendors. Internal HR, IT, and Payroll personnel are also on hand to answer questions.

Are there opportunities for advancement within the company?
Absolutely! We believe in promoting from within and providing employees with the resources and support needed for career advancement.

What benefits does The Gerken Companies offer?
Gerken provides a competitive benefits package that includes bonus opportunities, an Employee Assistance Program, paid YMCA memberships, product discounts, seasonal work schedules, and more. Benefits vary based on job classifications (such as whether or not a position falls under collective bargaining), so please refer to individual job postings for a list of possible benefits.

Does The Gerken Companies offer internship or co-op opportunities?
We sure do. The Gerken Companies’ various paid internship programs offer young construction professionals valuable hands-on experience. Working alongside knowledgeable Gerken professionals, interns gain exposure to our fast-paced industry and the opportunity to develop skills that will benefit them in future career endeavors. Learn more on our Internships page.

How does The Gerken Companies prioritize safety in the workplace?
Safety is our top priority. We implement rigorous safety protocols, provide training, and regularly evaluate our practices to ensure a safe working environment.

What is the typical work schedule?
Work schedules vary depending on the role and project needs. Many positions operate during standard business hours, while some may require evenings or weekends.

How can I stay updated on job openings and company news?
You can follow us on our social media platforms or check our Careers page regularly for the latest updates. You can also sign up to receive email notifications of future career opportunities.

Have a question not answered here?
For more information about working at Gerken, visit our Careers page. Or send us a message with your question.

All parents want the best for their children, especially as they approach one of the most pivotal moments in their young lives: high school graduation. The world can seem overwhelming as they make decisions about their futures. One exciting option worth considering is a career at The Gerken Companies, a leader in skilled trades that offers an array of rewarding opportunities.

Hands-On Experience and Immediate Income

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s hard to overstate the importance of hands-on learning. A career at The Gerken Companies allows your son or daughter to gain practical experience while earning a paycheck. Unlike traditional college paths, where students may incur debt without acquiring tangible skills, your child can begin building a career right away. That immediate income can lead to financial independence sooner rather than later, an attractive proposition for many students.

Furthermore, The Gerken Companies offer comprehensive benefits, such as medical, dental, and vision insurance. Those benefits can alleviate financial burdens and provide peace of mind for both you and your child, ensuring they embark on their career with a solid foundation.

Career Growth and Accomplishment

Transitioning from high school to the workforce can be daunting; however, a career at The Gerken Companies provides the stability and promising growth opportunities that many graduates seek. The company emphasizes internal promotions, ensuring that hard work is recognized and rewarded. Consequently, employees have chances to step into higher roles more quickly than they might in other industries.

There’s also something gratifying about seeing the fruits of one’s labor. At The Gerken Companies, employees contribute to building roads and infrastructure that directly benefit the community. That tangible impact provides a great sense of achievement and purpose, reinforcing the value of their work.

Supportive Culture and Independence

One of the most significant advantages of joining The Gerken Companies is its family-like work environment. Employees work in a tight-knit team where hard work is recognized and celebrated, fostering lasting friendships and enhancing job satisfaction.

It’s important to remember that college isn’t for everyone, and that’s perfectly okay. By exploring a career in skilled trades, your child can avoid the overwhelming student debt that often accompanies a four-year degree. Encouraging them to start their working life earlier empowers them to take charge of their future, leading to increased confidence and maturity.

Conclusion

As graduation approaches, it’s crucial to have open conversations with your high school senior about their aspirations and fears. Take the time to explore all their options with them, including a fulfilling career at The Gerken Companies. With a commitment to hands-on work, immediate pay, excellent benefits, and a supportive culture, this path could be the stepping stone to a bright and prosperous future.

In guiding your graduating senior toward finding what resonates with them, you can watch them embark on an exciting journey toward independence and success.

On October 8, 2025, the Summit County Fairgrounds in Tallmadge, Ohio, played host to an inspiring gathering of students, industry leaders, and community advocates at the Akron Canton Builds Construction Expo 2025. The annual event showcases the countless opportunities available in the skilled trades sector and underscores the importance of investing in our future workforce.

Akron Canton Builds is a dedicated nonprofit that actively promotes skilled trade programs in Summit, Stark, and the surrounding counties. The organization connects individuals with fulfilling career opportunities in the construction industry, ultimately fostering economic growth and building a skilled workforce that can drive innovation and development in our communities. Through initiatives tailored specifically for young adults and aspiring tradespeople, Akron Canton Builds is making significant strides in tackling the skills gap that poses a challenge to the construction sector.

Clayton Wielinski and Mark Kirk from Kuhlman Corporation’s Akron Yard participated in this year’s expo. Their presence and Kuhlman’s involvement as an event sponsor demonstrate strong support for the industry and highlight Gerken’s commitment to developing the next generation of skilled tradespeople. The hands-on demonstrations offered at the expo were particularly engaging, allowing students to interact directly with experienced trades professionals and obtain insight into the high-demand careers awaiting them in construction.

Preparing for the Future

The Gerken Companies is taking proactive measures to promote construction jobs among young people. Our initiatives, which include paid internships for graduating high school students and sponsoring local career events, showcase the tangible benefits of starting a career in construction. Hands-on experiences not only provide invaluable exposure to the industry but also highlight the role of technology and modern practices in shaping a promising future. By helping students with the resources, knowledge, and connections they need, we are collectively investing in a brighter future for our communities.

The concerted efforts of Akron Canton Builds and other organizations, along with industry partners, are pivotal in preparing a skilled workforce for a thriving future in construction. Fostering connections between students and industry professionals can inspire a new generation to take pride in their work and contribute to the growth and development of our communities.

As we look ahead, it’s clear that the future of construction is not just about building structures but about building lives and providing opportunities that shape careers and communities.

As the job market evolves, the construction industry stands out as a critical sector poised for significant growth. With projected construction and extraction employment growth of 11 percent by 2026, as outlined by the United States Department of Labor, now is the perfect time for students to consider a career in the field. One program that is preparing the next generation of workers is the Mining, Asphalt, Concrete & Construction Technology (MACC Tech) program.

What is MACC Tech?

Designed for junior and senior high schoolers, the MACC Tech program equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in various construction-related fields. With the backing of trade organizations such as the Ohio Aggregates & Industrial Minerals Association (OAIMA), the innovative program recognizes the fundamental role that aggregates and industrial minerals play in construction and is committed to addressing the industry’s growing employment needs.

Graduates of the MACC Tech program receive a credential that prepares them for immediate employment in diverse career paths, including roles in mining, asphalt production, concrete technology, and construction management. The program provides hands-on experience and specialized training that enables students to step directly into high-demand, well-paying jobs. In Ohio alone, the construction and extraction industry employs over 185,300 people, with an average wage of $61,020—exceeding both the national average and median salary for all occupations.

The Importance of Aggregates

A remarkable aspect of the MACC Tech program is its emphasis on aggregates—essential materials like sand, gravel, and crushed stone that are the cornerstone of construction projects.

Aggregates are not just significant in quantity; they are critical to infrastructure, supporting everything from roads and highways to buildings and bridges. For instance, a mile of a typical four-lane interstate highway requires about 38,000 tons of aggregate base. By emphasizing the importance of aggregates, the MACC Tech program prepares students to understand the foundational elements of construction work.

Beyond personal career development, the MACC Tech program also aims to address broader economic needs. Preparing a skilled workforce directly supports the demands of the construction industry and contributes to the vitality of Ohio’s economy. The initiative reflects a commitment to sustainable practices, recognizing that aggregates and industrial minerals are indispensable to our daily lives—each Ohioan uses approximately 11 tons of these materials every year.

If you can’t grow it, you have to mine it.

That quote captures the essence of why pursuing a career in the construction sector is critical in our increasingly infrastructure-dependent world. Construction careers are diverse and rewarding, offering young adults the opportunity to make tangible contributions to the development of their communities and the economy.

Looking to the future, it’s clear that programs such as MACC Tech are essential in shaping a well-prepared, skilled labor force that can meet the challenges of tomorrow’s construction industry. For students eager to embark on a promising career path, the Mining, Asphalt, Concrete & Construction Technology program is an incredible opportunity to build a prosperous future.

If you or someone you know is a high school student interested in construction, consider taking part in the MACC Tech program. With the proper credentials and training, a fulfilling career in the construction industry awaits. Learn more here.

Continuous learning and professional development are essential in the construction industry. At The Gerken Companies, we take pride in our partnerships with various professional associations that enhance our team’s skills and provide valuable scholarship opportunities for aspiring individuals in our field. Below are some notable scholarship options available to both students and professionals.

Construction Angels

One impressive organization is Construction Angels, a national nonprofit dedicated to supporting the families of construction workers who have tragically lost their lives on the job. With the support of the Ohio Contractors Association, Construction Angels provides financial services and grief counseling during incredibly tough times. Additionally, they offer scholarships for students pursuing careers in the construction sector or for anyone who has lost a parent to a construction-related accident. To learn more about their impactful work and available opportunities, visit the Construction Angels website.

Road Scholars

The NAPA Road Scholars program is a significant initiative created through a partnership between the National Center for Asphalt Technology at Auburn University (NCAT) and the National Asphalt Pavement Association (NAPA). Designed to support graduate students in their academic pursuits in asphalt technology, the scholarship funds provide essential resources, allowing students to collaborate with NCAT’s experts and engage in cutting-edge research. For more information on this valuable opportunity, check out the NAPA Road Scholars web page.

Asphalt Scholarships Program

Flexible Pavements of Ohio, in collaboration with the Ohio Asphalt Scholarship Fund and the National Asphalt Pavement Association Research and Education Foundation (NAPAREF), sponsors a series of scholarships at ten Ohio universities.

The scholarships support undergraduate and graduate students who are U.S. citizens and are enrolled full-time in civil engineering, construction management, or construction engineering programs. Students aspiring to specialize in asphalt pavement technology will find this program particularly beneficial. For further details, visit Flexible Pavements of Ohio’s website.

Ohio Aggregates & Industrial Minerals Scholarship

The Ohio Aggregates & Industrial Minerals Scholarship aims to assist upper-division and graduate students gearing up for careers in the industrial minerals sector. Accessible to U.S. citizens attending any college or university in Ohio, this scholarship has a special emphasis on students taking courses related to the exploration, excavation, engineering, and production of aggregates and industrial minerals. Those interested in this career path can find more details at OAIMA’s website.

Conclusion

At Gerken Companies, we recognize that the future of the construction industry depends on well-trained individuals who are eager to learn and grow. Scholarships play a critical role by providing essential financial support and practical experience.

Whether you are a student beginning your educational journey or a professional looking to advance your career, exploring these scholarship opportunities could be your first step toward a rewarding future in construction. By investing in our workforce and supporting educational initiatives, The Gerken Companies is helping to build a stronger, more skilled community within the construction industry.

A good example is our Informational/Developmental Internship program. The ten-week program, introduced in summer 2023, allows interns to learn about the various aspects of our business. With pinpointed mentors in each rotation, Informational/Developmental interns observe and learn about Gerken operations in the following areas:

• Quality Control
• Quarries and Sand Yards
• Paving and Trucking
• Concrete and Building Materials
• Asphalt Plants

The first day in the program consists of a welcome breakfast where interns introduce themselves to Gerken leaders and discuss their plans for the future. Program mentors also introduce themselves and their roles within the organization.

During their time in the program, interns also attend a luncheon with interns from other areas within the company. They hear from a panel of senior leaders and can ask questions and get some great advice regarding success in the construction industry.

Devin Dietrich and Zane Frey-Quick were this year’s Info/Developmental interns. Devin will attend UT in the fall, while Zane plans to enter the workforce immediately. Both are candidates for future careers with The Gerken Companies.

The 2024 program concluded on August 15. Hannah Montana, HR Manager, sat down with Devin and Zane to discuss what they learned from the program and what improvements Gerken could make to ensure it benefits both the interns and the company.

“What I liked most about the program was meeting so many successful people and learning about how they started in the industry and got to where they are today,” says Devin. He has expressed interest in returning to Gerken in the future.

To see a complete list of Gerken internship programs, visit gerkencompanies.com/internships.

July 25 marked National Intern Day, an annual observation when employers recognize and appreciate their hardworking interns. The Gerken Companies currently has 14 paid interns gaining industry experience and developing skills in accounting, IT, quality control, purchasing, logistics, or project management.

Working alongside knowledgeable Gerken professionals, interns have exposure to the fast-paced construction industry which will benefit them in future career endeavors.

Learn more about our internship opportunities at gerkencompanies.com/internships.

Our Current Interns
Claire Baden – Office Intern
Chloe Bowen – Accounting Intern
Ashton Delaney – IT Intern
Devin Dietrich – Informational/Developmental Intern
Dylan Flynn – Quality Control Intern
Zane Frey-Quick – Informational/Developmental Intern
Grace Gerken – Purchasing Intern
Clarissa Johnson – Quality Control Intern
Andrew Mast – IT Intern
Lily Roehrig – Logistics Intern
Zak Schroeder – Accounting Intern
Will Seedorf – Project Management Intern
Tayah Shoemaker – Office Intern
Seth Voigt – Project Management Intern