Eligible employees of The Gerken Companies have access to a valuable retirement savings tool: the company 401(k) plan. Understanding how to use this benefit to its fullest potential is essential for securing your financial future, regardless of where you are in your career. Let’s explore the key strategies to help you make the most of your 401(k) at every stage.

Start Early and Automate Your Savings

For those in their 20s and 30s, the best strategy is to start early and make saving automatic. When contributions come directly from your paycheck, saving becomes easier and less daunting. Choose a contribution rate that aligns with your lifestyle, and consider increasing it whenever you receive a raise. Even a modest increase can significantly enhance your savings over time, thanks to the power of compound interest.

Take Advantage of Catch-Up Contributions

If you’re in your 40s or 50s, it’s crucial to evaluate your savings strategy regularly. As of 2026, you can contribute up to $24,500 to your 401(k), with an additional catch-up contribution of $8,000 available when you turn 50. This enhancement can greatly bolster your retirement savings. Regularly reviewing your contribution rate and investment elections will help ensure you’re making the most of the benefits available to you.

Enhanced Catch-Up for Those Approaching Retirement

For employees aged 60 to 63, a 401(k) offers an enhanced catch-up opportunity. If you turn 60, 61, 62, or 63 in 2026, you can contribute up to $11,250 in catch-up contributions. This brings your total contribution to $35,750 for the year, providing an excellent way to accelerate your savings as retirement approaches. Note that some employees with high prior-year wages will need to make catch-up contributions as Roth contributions, so be sure to review your plan materials for these details.

In the Environmental Health and Safety field, few stories resonate as deeply as Joe St. John’s. As the current EHS Director for Gerken Companies, Joe has not only carved out a niche for himself in a vital industry but also exemplified the importance of balance between professional pursuits and personal life.

Joe St. John learned the importance of a family’s love and support at a young age. Raised by a devoted single mother, he and his sister shared a strong bond. When Joe was young, their mother remarried, and a formal adoption was finalized for both him and his sister. “The adoption only made our family feel even more complete and connected,” Joe recalls. “It strengthened the bond we share today.”

From Steel to Safety

With aspirations of becoming an architect, Joe started working full-time right after high school. While employed at a steel processing plant in Perrysburg, he was tasked by his boss with documenting safety procedures for an upcoming OSHA inspection. That pivotal assignment, which led to Joe becoming an assistant to the plant’s safety director, prompted him to shift his educational focus to Environmental Health and Safety (EHS).

After earning an Associate’s Degree from Owens Community College, Joe began his career at First Solar as an entry-level Environmental Health and Safety professional. While working there, he attended the University of Findlay, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Health and Safety Management. His hard work and dedication propelled him through the ranks, and in 12 years, he was managing all of First Solar’s safety programs worldwide. However, with young children at home, the frequent travel and time away from his family began to take a toll on him.

Joe is someone who follows his instincts and has confidence in himself. So, when O-I recruited him, he decided to accept an EHS position that involved significantly less travel. Five years later, he followed his gut again, launching his own firm, St. John EHS Consulting, with The Gerken Companies as his first major client.

“We had several large contracts, and the company kept growing,” says Joe. But soon, his passion for safety became overshadowed by the challenges of running a business. “My role became that of a business manager rather than the EHS work that I love.”

With its employee ranks growing through the additions of Kuhlman Corporation and M&R Ready Mix, The Gerken Companies offered Joe a full-time position as Environmental Health and Safety Director. In this position, Joe found a culture that resonated with his family-first philosophy and appreciated a workplace that values team member well-being. “I discovered a place that reflects what’s most important to me—family,” he recalls.

Beyond his immediate role, Joe is spearheading initiatives such as The JAG Center, a modern facility dedicated to hands-on workforce training. And, alongside Nick Badenhop and Hannah Montana, Joe helped redesign the company’s professional development and month-long training programs into a conference-style format called GerCon.

Joe is not only a leader at The Gerken Companies but also a mentor to the community. He actively engages with students by conducting career tours, speaking at local schools for career events, and serving on several advisory committees focused on vocational development. His message to young people is clear: there are many paths to success, and hard work can lead to fulfilling careers, regardless of traditional routes.

“Never count yourself out. If you have a passion, follow it. It is amazing what you can achieve with hard work, dedication, and a positive attitude.”

A Life Centered on Family

Joe was born in Oregon, Ohio, and attended Clay High School. He met his future wife, Cari, during senior year, when they attended prom together. Now married 23 years, the couple has three daughters, ages 20, 17, and 12. The tightly knit family enjoys spending time together camping, traveling, taking vacations, playing games, and attending concerts.

“My motivation comes from my family,” Joe insists. “Since the day I met my wife, I have strived to be the best person I can be. That motivation grew stronger with the birth of each of our daughters. I feel truly blessed to have the family I do.”

Throughout Joe’s life, the positive impact of a father figure in his early years reinforced his belief in the significance of family. As a child, the love and stability he found in his new family dynamic gave him a sense of security and belonging. That realization would shape his personal values and professional goals, inspiring him to create environments—both at home and work—that foster strong relationships and community.

Joe St. John’s belief in the significance of family and friends has directly inspired his role in EHS. On a team some refer to as “the safety police,” Joe bases many of his decisions on what he values most: the safety of others. “I’m okay with being seen as the bad guy or having to make tough decisions when it comes to everyone’s safety. I would rather have people be mad at me than not make it home to their families,” he says. That realization has shaped his personal values and professional goals, inspiring him to create environments that foster strong relationships and community.

By encouraging others to pursue their dreams and invest in themselves, Joe reminds us to find our niche and cultivate a future where work and life coexist harmoniously.

Have you ever found yourself driving past a construction site, surrounded by bright orange barrels, and wondered why asphalt paving seems to take so long? You’re definitely not alone. Many people express frustration, especially during periods when no workers are present. Understanding the complexities behind the paving process reveals that it isn’t as straightforward as it may seem.

Weather: The Unpredictable Factor

One of the primary reasons asphalt pavers can’t work every day is our ever-changing weather. Asphalt paving is particularly sensitive to weather conditions. As Richie Keifer, Paving Operations Manager for Gerken Paving, Inc., notes, “Weather plays a critical role in determining when paving can occur.”

Rain can be a significant setback; it not only ruins hot-mix asphalt but also washes away the loose base materials essential for a solid pavement foundation. Likewise, colder temperatures pose a challenge because asphalt heat dissipates quickly, making it tough to compact the material properly. Achieving proper compaction is vital to ensuring long-lasting, durable roads.

To navigate weather-related challenges effectively, Richie stays on top of forecasts throughout the day. His planning starts as early as 5:30 AM, relying on local news and weather apps, such as DTN WeatherSentry^®, to make informed decisions about paving schedules. That proactive approach enables better planning and adjustments as needed, enhancing efficiency wherever possible.

At The Gerken Companies, we wholeheartedly embrace employee appreciation as a fundamental element of our vibrant culture. We recognize that our incredible team of over 650 dedicated individuals is the driving force behind our success. That’s why we prioritize celebrating and acknowledging their valuable contributions in truly meaningful ways. Through a variety of cherished traditions and engaging events, we ensure that every employee feels valued and deeply connected to our organization.

Fostering a Culture of Appreciation

Our journey of appreciation begins right away with new employees, who are warmly welcomed with a Gerken-branded shirt and a stylish water bottle after completing their first 30 days with us. This thoughtful gesture helps them feel an instant connection to the Gerken family from day one!

Building on this foundation of welcome, we look forward to celebrating Employee Appreciation Week every August. This special time allows us to send appreciation gifts right to each employee’s home, reinforcing our steadfast commitment to recognizing the hard work and dedication of our entire workforce. Additionally, occasions like Administrative Professionals Day offer another important opportunity to acknowledge our essential administrative staff, who play a crucial role in our success.

Throughout the year, we actively engage with our employees by hosting site-visit lunches and creating opportunities to connect directly with our teams at various job sites and facilities. As summer rolls in, we elevate our appreciation efforts with fun office food truck events at our Napoleon headquarters and Maumee office. These gatherings are not just about food; they are lively celebrations where we express our gratitude for our employees’ unwavering commitment.

Recognizing Employee Contributions

To honor exceptional performance, we created our BRAVO Recognition Program. The program allows employees to nominate coworkers who embody our company values and demonstrate exceptional teamwork. Each month, three nominated employees are selected at random and awarded points for gift cards or tangible rewards, making their recognition both meaningful and inspiring. Points are also awarded to the employees who nominated the selected winners.

Similarly, in June, our Gerken Gear Program offers employees certificates they can redeem for stylish, company-branded apparel, allowing them to proudly showcase their connection to The Gerken Companies and nurture a sense of belonging.

Recognition at Gerken extends beyond performance; we also acknowledge work anniversaries. We celebrate milestones starting at five years of service and every five years thereafter, with points that can be redeemed for a variety of gifts to honor loyalty and service. Birthdays are joyous occasions as well, with every employee receiving points to redeem for delightful rewards, ensuring no employee feels forgotten on their special day.

Equally important is our commitment to professional development. We encourage employees to embrace their growth by offering a broad range of development opportunities, including job-specific skills training, leadership development, and educational programs through GerCon. This commitment underscores how much we value their journey to success and aligns with our P.A.S.S. Bonus Program (Performance, Attendance, Safety = Success), which reinforces the behaviors and values that contribute to a safe, productive, and thriving workplace.

Celebrating Each Other

At The Gerken Companies, we proudly endorse the People Are Everything (PAE) platform, which cultivates a culture of peer recognition. This platform allows employees to celebrate each other’s achievements, fostering a strong sense of community and appreciation throughout our organization. As a highlight of our appreciation culture, we eagerly look forward to our annual Employee Appreciation Picnic in August and our festive Holiday Party in November. These joyful events bring employees and their guests together, providing opportunities for families to connect and enjoy quality time outside of work.

Finally, as an extra touch of gratitude during the holiday season, each employee receives a special Christmas gift delivered right to their door, spreading joy and warmth.

With every initiative we launch, whether it’s the Employee Appreciation Picnic or the New Hire Welcome Program, our mission remains steadfast: to cultivate an environment where every employee feels truly valued and recognized. At The Gerken Companies, we believe that appreciation is not merely a gesture; it is the cornerstone of a thriving workplace. We are deeply committed to ensuring that our employees feel like vital contributors to our shared journey, and we are excited about what the future holds together.

At The Gerken Companies, we understand that innovation is pivotal to our growth and success in the asphalt industry. Recently, our Director of Technology, Nick Badenhop, represented us at the National Asphalt Pavement Association (NAPA) Midyear Meeting held in Columbus, Ohio. The dynamic gathering brought together industry leaders, contractors, and advocates with a shared vision for the future of asphalt, particularly as we anticipate the reauthorization of the surface transportation bill.

One of the standout moments of the meeting was Nick’s participation in a panel discussion titled “Flipping the Script: Real Conversations About Technology Adoption in Asphalt.” The session aimed to shift the focus from technology providers to the contractors themselves, encouraging conversations about the real challenges and successes in technology adoption within our industry.

Essential Takeaways

Several key insights emerged from the discussion of the evolving technology landscape in the contracting industry. First and foremost, it is crucial to have contractor-centric conversations. By centering discussions around the needs and experiences of contractors, companies can more effectively identify the genuine barriers they face when adopting new tools. Hearing firsthand accounts from those on the front lines helps us understand the factors that truly influence their choices.

Moreover, it’s vital to recognize that not all contractors are on the same journey regarding their embrace of digital tools. While some are enthusiastic early adopters, eager to innovate, others may take a more measured approach to new technologies. Each perspective enriches the conversation, enabling us to bridge gaps and cultivate an inclusive environment for technology integration.

The openness displayed by panel participants was another enlightening aspect of the discussion. Contractors candidly shared not only the benefits they gained from technology but also the challenges they faced along the way. That kind of honesty is vital for shaping a roadmap for future adopters who may feel apprehensive about leaping into digital adoption.

Additionally, the role of trust and organizational culture cannot be understated. An organization’s culture and the level of trust within teams greatly affect technology adoption. Industry leaders must foster an environment where team members feel supported in exploring and integrating new tools. Building this trust may take time, but it is critical for successfully managing change.

Lastly, the panelists shared valuable lessons they wished they had learned earlier in their journeys toward technology adoption. Those insights can serve as a guide for new contractors, helping them avoid common pitfalls and encouraging them to take thoughtful, calculated steps forward.

For his part, Nick emphasized the importance of leaders clearly communicating the reasons behind technology adoption and its impact on employees. He stated, “When people understand why we are making a change, they are more receptive and willing to adapt.”

At The Gerken Companies, we are wholeheartedly committed to leading the charge in technological advancement within the asphalt industry. Our participation in events like the NAPA Midyear Meeting and our active engagement in discussions around the practical challenges of technology implementation allow us to contribute to a more connected and resilient industry—one that is well-prepared to thrive amid change.

We look forward to continuing this journey alongside our fellow contractors and industry partners, working together to embrace the future of asphalt with enthusiasm and optimism.

In today’s ever-changing world, resilience stands out as an invaluable trait that empowers us to thrive both personally and professionally. Few stories capture this spirit as brilliantly as Michael Miller’s, whose incredible journey through life and career showcases not only perseverance but also the strength found in community and mentorship.

Early Challenges

Michael’s story begins with significant challenges. Born with a diaphragmatic hernia, a complex congenital condition, the odds were daunting from the start, with doctors informing his parents that he had only a 60 percent chance of survival. Yet, defying these odds, he not only survived but flourished, overcoming various obstacles along the way. That early battle for life instilled in him a deep appreciation for the sacrifices his parents, Cindy and Dean, made. Their unwavering dedication, as they balanced multiple jobs to support Michael and his two brothers, helped instill in him a strong work ethic—an invaluable asset in his future endeavors.

After high school, Michael embarked on a journey that was both unexpected and transformative. He joined the Air National Guard, stepping into a role that would shape his core beliefs: Integrity First, Service Before Self, and Excellence in All We Do. His deployment to Iraq and Afghanistan in 2010 marked a new chapter in his life. He played a significant role in building a Medical Treatment Center and enhancing the Mail facility to manage the Christmas holiday surge, all while fostering camaraderie and leadership among his peers.

Transitioning back to civilian life, Michael set his sights on higher education. While pursuing a civil engineering degree at OSU Lima, he initially struggled to find his footing. However, his life took an exciting turn when he discovered his passion for Construction Systems Management (CMS), which ignited his enthusiasm for the construction industry. With a humorous touch, he reminisces about his classmates—many of whom were fellow veterans and non-traditional students—who helped create an engaging and relatable atmosphere that made his experience all the more rewarding.

Career Beginnings

An internship with The Gerken Companies in 2016 marked the beginning of a pivotal chapter in Michael’s career. His familiarity with the quarry, embedded in childhood memories of family outings, served as a comforting backdrop to his professional journey. He remembers his dad driving through the tunnel under I-75, opening the windows and honking the horn to hear the echoes, and looking at the crushing operation.

Michael eagerly immersed himself in the fast-paced environment of The Gerken Companies, relishing the opportunity to learn the intricacies of the production chain. Now a Project Manager with Bluffton Paving, Inc., he underscores a vital lesson he picked up along the way: “It takes all kinds to make this company run, and we need every one of them to succeed.”

A particular highlight of Michael’s experience has been working with the paving crews. “I truly enjoy stepping in when needed or giving someone a much-deserved day off,” he says with evident enthusiasm.

What stands out most about Michael is his profound respect for his colleagues. He firmly believes that no matter how brilliant a plan may be, it is the team that brings it to life. His commitment to fostering strong relationships reflects his deep-seated desire to embody the company’s essence and help it thrive. “It takes all of us to keep the soul of this company alive, and we need to make sure we protect and build upon that,” he says.

Like all of us, Michael has encountered moments of failure and uncertainty, but he has embraced these experiences as invaluable opportunities for growth. He recognizes the importance of feedback and the occasional tough love that reminds us we’re all on this journey together.

Inspiring Future Generations

Michael and his wife, Bailey, have a son named Murphy. During the summer, Bailey, who works as a teacher’s aide in North Baltimore, cares for Murphy and two of their nephews. Their close-knit family dynamic helps strengthen Michael’s resolve and keeps him grounded during the hectic, busy season.

With a hopeful vision for the future, Michael hopes to inspire others to consider careers in construction. He sees the field not just as a job but as a rewarding life that allows individuals to take immense pride in their contributions. Dreaming of days when he can point out buildings and projects he helped create—just as his father did with him—Michael is determined to pass on the legacy of craftsmanship and dedication to future generations.

“It’s a rewarding life, and I want to be able to recommend it to my son and nieces and nephews,” he says.

Michael Miller’s journey is a powerful reminder of the significance of resilience, community, and mentorship. It underscores the belief that with hard work, support from those around us, and a readiness to learn and grow, every challenge can be transformed into an opportunity for success. As Michael continues to build his career and inspire others, his story serves as a guiding light for anyone seeking their path, whether within the construction industry or beyond.