Employee Spotlight

A life-altering accident set Don Hoyt on a new career path. His drive—and a love for driving—took him on the road to adventure.

For the longest time, when asked who inspired her most in life, Mary Mikesell quickly pointed to her parents. As it turns out, the biggest influence in Mary’s life would arrive in the tiniest of forms.

Raised in the family restaurant business, this Kuhlman Corporation VP is trying to make a difference.

Stephanie Clark chooses to live one day at a time, a mindset inspired by her ever-optimistic mom, who always envisions brighter days ahead.

Trained to pull off high-elevation or rapid-water rescues, Jared Clum gets an equal rush by helping keep coworkers safe.

Ready-mix dispatcher is using valuable life lessons to steer his future.

Like most accountants, Cathy Gerken says she dislikes being surprised at work. But she has been pleasantly caught off guard throughout her career at The Gerken Companies.

Todd Crane Michigan Operations Manager, Gerken Materials, Inc. Listening to Todd Crane talk about himself, it’s easy to sense how two individuals greatly influenced his life—one by inspiring a strong work ethic and an interest in learning and the other by showing him the type of leader Todd never wants to become. As Michigan Operations Manager for Gerken Materials, Inc., Todd Crane oversees the company’s safety, quality, and production around the state. He has been working in the sand and gravel business (or, as he calls it, “playing in the dirt”) for 33 years. He was at Stansley Mineral Resources when that company merged with Gerken eleven years ago. The transition provided him with a pleasant surprise. “I expected to still have the grind that comes with the industry, of course,” recalls Todd. “But I was amazed how much everyone at Gerken truly cares about their work.” Todd quickly discovered…

After struggling to decide which career path to take, Brent Gerken learned the best route was following his heart.

A would-be agronomist comes home from college with a new pursuit: joining the “family business.”