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The McKenzie Regional Workforce Center in Fitchburg, WI, is close to completion. In this space, they’ll train and support the next generation of skilled tradespeople and entrepreneurs. Read more here.

Centro is the leading non-profit serving Latinx in Dane County and we are proud to help it expand its 40-year legacy, constructing a new building that has dedicated space and resources for its community to thrive. Read more here.

On May 19, the Food + Farm Exploration Center installed the world’s largest potato masher. Towering over the crowd, the nearly 39-foot tall potato masher can be seen from miles, welcoming visitors to the center. The giant potato masher honors the agriculture industry and celebrates all who are involved in growing and eating the produce. The mission of the Exploration Center is to connect people to the food they eat. Read more here.

At Findorff, we aim to drive innovation and foster new and exciting customer experiences. With that in mind, we are excited to welcome Robbie Oldenburg as Director of Business Development, and congratulate Brad Olson on his promotion to Director of Project Management! Our team is always pushing the boundaries of construction in the fields of science and technology, and we know that these two passionate individuals will further our expansive goals.

 

Robbie Oldenburg, Director of Business Development 

With 20+ years of industry experience, Robbie will provide value to our clients and communities by continuing to build strong partnerships. Alongside Chad Eschler, she will provide executive leadership for Findorff’s Science & Technology department. In this role she will:

Brad Olson, Director of Project Management

Brad has taken on a senior-level position as Director of Project Management for Findorff, focused on the Science & Technology department. In his 15 years at Findorff, Brad has led over $700 million in the development of science and technology facilities, including brand new labs and complex renovations. Within this role he is responsible for:

Chad Eschler, as Vice President of Business Development, will continue to provide strategic direction and vision for Business Development, manage both the local and regional Business Development teams, develop talent, and foster opportunities and relationships.

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Bob Hougard will continue to serve Findorff as Vice President of Science & Technology. Leading many large, complex projects enables Bob to understand factors necessary to develop an end-to-end approach to deliver successful projects for all stakeholders.

In celebrating National Hospital Week, Findorff offers our appreciation and respect for the incredible work that healthcare professionals do every day while caring for patients.

 

Today, most of the world is getting back to normal after the crisis of the last few years. Healthcare’s idea of normal is continued management of the “routine everyday” crises. Due to the economic headwinds you are facing, along with staffing challenges and reimbursement pressures, your everyday continues to navigate new and long-existing obstacles. Our communities are fortunate that the healthcare industry is well-practiced in rising to the occasion.

 

With all this to think about, we work hard to make sure your facility needs are always met for your organization. Every day, we apply our values of character, community, and craftsmanship to help create and maintain thoughtful environments for you to care for your community. 

 

Certainly, each week, but this week in particular, Findorff would like to recognize and honor the ongoing efforts and work of our dedicated hospital staff and caregivers, as well as all the workers that keep our healthcare system strong during these demanding times.

 

To learn more about Findorff’s hospital work, check out our Healthcare Experience. For information to work with Findorff on healthcare opportunities, please reach out to Jeff Eckstein, AIA.

What a start to the year! We have an incredibly talented team, both in the field or in the office, and we would like to recognize the individuals who’ve been promoted in first few months of 2023. Please join us in congratulating the following individuals who have been recognized for their above-and-beyond work!

 

Adam Esser has been promoted to Supervisor.

  

In office leadership positions, Kallie Anderson and Matt Schroeder have been promoted to Senior Project Manager. Jon Winch and Hannah Winch are each now Project Manager II. Cameron Evans, Justine Hansel, Carl Hanson, Luke Kiefer, Troy Klabunde, Jon Powers, Colin Redman, Graham Schroeder, and Macy Clark each now have the title of Project Manager I. Megan McFadden is now People Solutions Leadand Leah Preston is Project Engineer. Abby Clegg, Trevor Hickey, Caleb Johnson, and Hunter Muthig have each earned the title of Assistant Project Manager.

 

Congratulations, to each of you!

This week is National Women in Construction Week, and we are beyond excited to highlight some of the amazing women who contribute to Findorff’s success from both our field and offices. The theme for this year’s 25th anniversary is ‘Many Paths, One Mission.’ This theme celebrates the many different journeys women have taken to not only join but bolster the construction industry.

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The following highlights some of the incredible women here at Findorff. Over the course of this week, we will showcase their personal achievements thus far, and reflect on the many paths that led them to the construction industry. We are thankful for their contributions.

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Nakiah ‘Kiah’ Hokanson | Madison, WI | Acting Ironworker Foreman

Tell us about your journey. How did you end up where you are now in your current role?

My journey starts with my dad. He’s a local 1 ironworker, and always told me my two options after high school were college or trade school. This was delayed, as my mom was diagnosed with brain cancer my junior year of high school, and I waitressed fulltime to take over as her caretaker. After she passed away in 2014, I took over paying rent and bills. When I refused my dad’s offer to move back in with him so I could go to college, he reminded me of our deal. I was very resistant at first, but finally applied for an apprenticeship in 2016. Cut to March 2022, my first job was a small township building in Portage, WI.  

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There were a lot of firsts for me on that first day: climbed up a 20-foot rebar wall mat, picked up a 6-inch grinder for the first time, and cut rebar with hot sparks flying everywhere. I was terrified and unsure whether I had what it took to do this for the rest of my life, but I kept showing up and doing everything I was told. 

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After a couple weeks, I witnessed someone getting laid off. I had just made it through the first layoff. That showed me I did have what it took to make it. 

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I’ve had so many good mentors over the years that taught me all they knew and had confidence in me when I didn’t have any in myself. One foreman told me I was going to be a foreman and I laughed at him. I was still an apprentice and didn’t think anyone would take me seriously or respect me enough to take directions from me. I recently had to call him and tell him he was right and that I had become a foreman. He was very proud and told me to ‘give ’em hell.’ 

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Looking back on the seven years I’ve been an ironworker; I’m honored to have been presented with all the opportunities and knowledge that I have. I couldn’t imagine doing anything else all day, every day. There were some very tough days but that’s what makes it so rewarding, not everyone survives the trades and I’m proud of everything I’ve accomplished.  

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What is the proudest achievement of your career?

I’m not sure I can pick just one of my proudest moments! When I was at Epic the decks were so big that I could pack out iron all day if I wanted to. I enjoyed seeing just how much weight I could lift onto my shoulder and carry across the deck where it was to be installed. It made me proud to keep up with the guys and carry just as much, and sometimes more than them. Nobody had to pick up my slack because I was a girl on the job, they had to keep up with me. 

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Another very proud moment of mine is getting to be a part of the tower crane crew. I’ve had the privilege of putting up two tower cranes alongside great guys who kept me safe. The tower crane at TruStage Foundation was my first and I was lucky enough to work with someone who showed me the ropes and made sure I was okay. It was a terrifying but liberating experience.  

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Kim Norton | Madison, WI | Field Operations Specialist

Tell us about your journey. How did you end up where you are now in your current role?

My start in construction actually began at the front desk. I came from teaching elementary school and applied for a job in the accounting department here at Findorff that I heard about from my friend Renae Beyer. I didn’t get that job but was asked if I would consider becoming the receptionist. My first impression was that this was a company where I was welcomed and considered a valuable part of the team right from the get go. I worked as the receptionist for about nine months and knew that I wanted to do more so I applied for a newly created position as full-time Field Operations Support. Ten years later, I am now the Field Operations Specialist for Findorff. Currently my main responsibilities are:
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I love my job and know that I will be here until I retire. I am one of the lucky ones that gets to go to work every day loving what I do and the people that I get to do it with. I can’t ask for more!
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Fun Facts about me:

What is the proudest achievement of your career?

My proudest achievement is the reputation that I have earned as being a resource and someone that people can go to for answers in all areas here at Findorff.

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Lakisha ‘Kisha’ Vassel | Milwaukee, WI | Operator

Tell us about your journey. How did you end up where you are now in your current role?

I have always had a love for cars and trucks which is what led me down the road to being a heavy equipment operator. But my journey was hard; being a wife and mother with a newborn while working in a position with high demands and going to school every day to learn how to operate different equipment was tough. I’m lucky to have had a good support system, it’s tougher if you don’t.

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It can be hard to succeed as an operator, or in any area in the construction field, and for many years I had tunnel vision. I was working in a male dominated field, in both cold and hot conditions, driving sometimes hours to work, and having my son and husband come to hotels with me so I could complete my tasks. But through it all I can say that being an operator has given me great opportunities to meet so many amazing people and work on some unbelievable projects. I’m learning new skills every day and learning how to work with equipment that I could have never imagined.

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What is the proudest achievement of your career?

I am proud of myself. Just knowing that if you believe you can do it and put in the hard work and be patient, it will happen. Being an operator engineer and working for Findorff has been nothing but good for me as a woman in this field. I have worked 16 years as an operator, and I’ve never missed a day of work. I’m so grateful!

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Lisa Berg | Madison, WI | Yard Administrative Specialist

Tell us about your journey. How did you end up where you are now in your current role?

In total, I have been with Findorff for over eight years. I started out at the Yard assisting with the implementation of a project management tool for a few months then headed to the home office to create training videos and support the Preconstruction department. After that I went to Epic for a year or so where I worked side by side with the PA to wrap up the Farm Campus and support the completion of the first part of the Storybook Campus. Finally, I came back to the Yard where I have been ever since! Currently, I balance three primary areas (Inventory, PO/AP/Coding, and Preventive Maintenance) while always trying to make processes more accurate and time friendly for everyone.

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What is the proudest achievement of your career?

I have to say my proudest achievement has just been everything I’ve gotten to work on from my start with Findorff to present. With all my experiences, I have the tools to be more proactive vs. reactive in more situations. Being able to step in when needed and touch so many different areas within Findorff, and the construction industry in general, when I didn’t know much about them at the beginning, has been really rewarding. Construction is ever present and ever changing!

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Denise Krueger | Wausau, WI | Project Coordinator

Tell us about your journey. How did you end up where you are now in your current role?

I actually began at Findorff in the Madison office in 2007 as a PMA. My husband was then offered a great opportunity at an insurance company in Merrill, so I left, and we moved in 2015. Then one day in 2017 I saw a feature on the news about the groundbreaking at Sentry Insurance for their new office building – lo and behold it was a Findorff project! I recalled that Joe Schuchardt was heading up the work at Sentry, so I reached out and we met a couple times for lunch. By the time 2018 rolled around Joe told me that Findorff was planning to open an office in Wausau, and asked if I would like to come back. Now here we are almost 5 years in!

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What is the proudest achievement of your career?

I’m so proud to have been an original member of the Wausau office, and in a completely new market! Introducing the Findorff name and brand to the area and gaining the trust and respect of locals, both clients and subcontractors, has been humbling, exciting, and nerve-wracking all combined. We are realizing our efforts and that is VERY satisfying.

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Koral Krieg | Milwaukee, WI | Operator Apprentice

Tell us about your journey. How did you end up where you are now in your current role?

I started my journey working in a warehouse for about a year, then I realized that job wasn’t for me, so I started my apprenticeship. I started my training in July of 2022 with Findorff. I learned so much from watching all the different trades on the Marquette University site. First, I ran an elevator at Marquette for about four months. Then, I went out to MilliporeSigma in Sheboygan Falls running a telehandler. I’ve learned so much from when I first started running the equipment to now, and I’m still learning new tips and tricks to the trade.

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What is the proudest achievement of your career?

My proudest achievement is seeing how much I have improved in operating a telehandler. I’d never been on one before this! I have a foreman and superintendent who are very helpful, and amazing teachers. Just working with an understanding crew that is willing to teach someone new to the job is an amazing experience.

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Jennifer LaBerge | Madison, WI | People Strategy

Tell us about your journey. How did you end up where you are now in your current role?

I have experienced many twists and turns in my HR career. I was fortunate (although I didn’t know it at the time) to experience a job loss, which led me to an opportunity at Findorff that I would not have otherwise pursued. I found my ‘home,’ and with it found not only a solid, stable, community-focused company that I’m proud to be a part of, but a role where I know I’m making an impact. 

What is the proudest achievement of your career?

When I started eight and a half years ago, I was told I wouldn’t be recruiting much. Looking back, that makes me giggle because Findorff has experienced incredible growth, 100% since then! I have been the integral connection in hiring over 225 talented people in that time. My life experience guides me to focus on applicant’s desire and drive to do the job, their transferable skills, and to advocate for those who are historically underrepresented in the construction industry.

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I find immense personal satisfaction in watching the people that I’ve recruited build their careers, pursue their personal passions, and experience life changes all while making Findorff the very special place it is.  

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Thank you for celebrating Women in Construction Week with us, and for taking a moment to learn more about some of the amazing women who contribute to Findorff’s success.

Findorff’s Business Development and Marketing department is led by a group of incredibly dedicated individuals passionate about creating lasting and impactful relationships with partners and clients across not only the state, but the country. Over the past year the team has evolved and grown, creating opportunities for new and familiar faces alike. We are thrilled to officially congratulate these leaders and welcome our newest addition!

 

Chad Eschler, Vice President of Business Development

With 16 years of experience at Findorff, ranging from Yard Superintendent to Special Projects Manager to Business Development, Chad’s new position as Vice President of Business Development is recognition of his commitment to always building strong partnerships and finding ways to provide value to our clients and communities. Chad’s focus moving forward is on continuing the tradition of not just finding projects for the team but finding the right projects for the team while expanding Findorff’s client base.

In his new role as Vice President of Business Development, Chad will:

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Christin Mlsna, Vice President of Marketing & Communications  

With 26 years of experience in marketing, communications, and business development, Christin’s move into her new role as Vice President of Marketing & Communications recognizes her talent and passion for blending these areas of focus to create engaging communications and the best possible client experience. In this new role, Christin will continue to provide executive leadership for Findorff’s education division while expanding her responsibilities to include Findorff’s marketing and communications.

In this role she will:

 

Susan Matthews, Director of Marketing

With extensive experience working in a wide variety of businesses from start-ups to billion-dollar brands, Susan joins us in the new role of Director of Marketing. Susan brings a fresh perspective on how marketing can best support both Findorff and our partners. Her creative ideas will enhance our efforts in marketing planning, strategic marketing, and storytelling,

Within this role she is responsible for:

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Jeff Tubbs will continue to serve Findorff as Executive Vice President. Jeff serves as a senior leader for the Business Development department in addition to supporting Findorff’s strategic planning where he provides new approaches for upcoming divisions and expansion opportunities.

Black History Month is a time to celebrate and recognize the achievements made by African Americans. In recognition of Black History Month, we want to pay respect to African Americans who have paved the way to make our industry what it is today and we encourage you to check out some of the many events happening with your community!

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Madison:

Madison Children’s Museum | Thursday, February 16 | 5 – 8PM
Free Night: Black History Month Celebration

Chazen Museum | February 6 – June 25, 2023
re:mancipation Exhibition

Madison Public Library, Central Library | Sunday, February 19 | 2PM
Love Released Again

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Milwaukee:

UWM Student Union | Thursday, February 16 | 9:30 – 11AM
Black History Month Coffee Hour

UWM Student Union Cinema | Thursday, February 16 | 6 – 8PM
African American Film Series: Nope

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Wausau:

Marathon County Historical Museum | Thursday, February 16 | 5:30 – 8:30PM
Trivia Night

Whitewater Music Hall | Friday, February 24 | 6 – 9PM
Black History Month Celebration

Findorff’s Education division is led by a group of incredibly dedicated and talented individuals who have spent years building relationships with Districts across the state. Over the past year, our education leadership has evolved, with two familiar faces now taking the reins. Though you may have seen them at the State Education Conference, we are excited to officially congratulate our education division leaders:

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Erika Freeman: Erika’s move into her role as Education Market Manager is recognition for her experience and commitment to Findorff’s education clients over the past eight years. Throughout her time with Findorff, Erika has been a part of fostering many long-lasting relationships with Districts across Wisconsin. She has proudly led planning efforts for over $573 million in referendum projects.

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In her new position, Erika will:

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‍Aaron Zutz: Aaron has taken on a senior-level position as Director of Project Management for Findorff, focused on the education division. His leadership on over $700 million in school construction projects, including brand new schools and complex renovations, is why he earned this promotion.

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Using his extensive experience, Aaron will:

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Although Erika and Aaron have been elevated within the Education Division, their predecessors remain committed to the Education Division’s success – especially Findorff’s clients.

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Now as Vice President of Education Market and Vice President of Marketing and Communications, Christin Mlsna can fully tap into her specialty, combining her passion for work in the education market and expertise in marketing. Though Erika has taken on portions of Christin’s previous role, she will continue to provide executive leadership for Findorff’s education division.

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Matt Breunig continues to serve Findorff’s education division in his position as Vice President of Operations. In his current role, Matt is providing executive oversight to Findorff’s Milwaukee office while also focusing on maintaining our standard of operational excellence company-wide. Matt will continue to be a mentor in the education division and is excited to continue building relationships with our clients.

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