Employee Spotlight | George Franklin Justice, III

Posted on March 17, 2021September 28, 2022 by Sara Bequette

Western would like to recognize George Justice as this month's Employee Spotlight.

Kudos, George—and thank you for being a valued member of the Western team!

Q&A with George Justice

What is your role at Western?

I am a sales/project manager with St. Louis Concrete.

What do you like most about Western?

I like that Western employees strive to help each other. Whenever I have a question or want to learn something, there is always someone willing to assist me.

What are three words to describe Western?

Innovative, efficient, and professional.

What is your proudest moment at Western?

The proudest moment I had was during my first year with the company. A project we were working on was just about finished and the customer we were working for came out and said that he was beyond pleased with Western’s work and professionalism. Ever since we have been his go-to contractor and I love doing business with him.

What has been your favorite project at Western?

My favorite project so far would have to be Monsanto K Café. It was an underground café that needed to be excavated around and then waterproofed. It was the first big job I ever sold, and it helped me become a better project manager with all of the obstacles it presented.

How did you first learn about Western?

I first learned about Western from one of my college professors at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. Dr. Chris Gordon reached out to me after I graduated and recommended that I look into Western since he thought the company would be a good fit for me.

Before working at Western, what was the most unusual or interesting job you've ever had?

The most interesting job I had prior to working at Western was as a drone pilot. We would use drones to conduct surveys on the exteriors of buildings that weren’t easily accessible and then compile a report for the customer.

What advice do you have for prospective Western candidates?

I would say try your hardest and always listen. You may not begin as the best, but everyone values a hard worker. If you always listen, you will always learn something new.

What have you gained from Working at Western?

I’ve gained a deeper understanding and respect for all of the trades in our industry. Our jobs wouldn’t be possible if we didn’t have a great team.

What is on your wish list for the next 10 years with Western?

Eventually, I would like to become a branch manager if the right opportunity arises.

If you could switch your job with anyone else within Western, whose job would you want?

Carter Pogue. He is an excellent mentor, very knowledgeable, and knows how to run a branch efficiently.

What about you? What do you personally enjoy?

I love competing in obstacle course races, half marathons, marathons, and strong man competitions. Also, I enjoy offering personal training to anyone who wants to better their life. There is nothing more rewarding than seeing someone positively change their life.

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George Justice exemplifies the definition of a team player. Despite only having four years of experience, George is a constant go-to guy in our office. He often helps senior staff with IT questions, shows foreman's projects, assists with takeoffs for other project managers, loads trucks, and is the first to volunteer to carry in supplies & snacks. He never complains and is always eager to help.
‘Excellent; thank you, George! We appreciate you and Western (in that order 😉).‘—Lena Vitale Gunn, Senior Real Estate Manager.
George inspires everyone around him to be better at their job and, most notably, a better person.
During the holiday season/holiday break, our branch had some employees that had to quarantine. George volunteered to help those out who were unable to go to job sites. He would start his day 1-2 hours early to visit job sites and work 1-2 hours late to stay on track.
Carter Pogue
Senior Branch Manager | St. Louis, MO (Concrete)
Western Specialty Contractors

Employee Spotlight | Shez Tucker

Posted on February 18, 2021September 28, 2022 by Sara Bequette

Western would like to recognize Shez Tucker as this month's Employee Spotlight.

Kudos, Shez—and thank you for being a valued member of the Western team!

Q&A with Shez Tucker

What is your role at Western?

Superintendent of the Seattle, WA branch. I'm in charge of an assortment of things; manpower, equipment, training safety, quality control, and production.

What do you like most about Western?

The diversity of work we do and the opportunity to grow within the company.

What are three words to describe Western?

Safety, quality, and custom.

What is your proudest moment at Western?

When Western issued me a gas card.

What has been your favorite project at Western?

Working on the roof of the Space Needle.

How did you first learn about Western?

My good friend, Kenny O'Hare introduced me to Western.

Before working at Western, what was the most unusual or interesting job you've ever had?

I worked construction on my father's crew for most of my childhood. It gave me a great foundation to build off at Western.

What advice do you have for prospective Western candidates?

Choose Western! It will provide you with the opportunity to learn and grow as much as you want. Work hard, listen to advice, and then follow it.

What have you gained from Working at Western?

Western has allowed me to take care of my family for the last 24 years. And when I was given the opportunity to transfer from Kansas City to Seattle, I was able to stay employed at Western. The experience of many types of work and training when needed.

What is on your wish list for the next 10 years with Western?

To help grow the Seattle branch from $6m to $15m a year.

If you could switch your job with anyone else within Western, whose job would you want?

No other jobs interest me at this point, unless Western starts a branch in the US Virgin Islands.

What about you? What do you personally enjoy?

My wife, Michelle, and I moved to Seattle to follow our passion for sailing. I had 19 years of experience in Kansas City at the time of the move. In the last four years, I worked as a foreman. Then, I was given the opportunity to become Superintendent a year ago. My first year has been a good one and I feel great about our branch making Track One!

As for our sailing dream, let's just say we have done exactly what we expected. We live on a 40′ C&C sailboat that is rarely seen on the dock on the weekends. We live in the largest Live Aboard Community on the west coast, right on Puget Sound. We see whales, we catch lots of crabs, and explore new exciting anchorages on a regular basis. We love it!

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Shez has a great ability to develop connections with our foremen and field crews. He's not shy about jumping in during a large concrete pour or deck coating project to demonstrate our Best Practices.
During most of our year, our crews work multiple shifts. Daytime, swing, and 2 am shifts. Shez never hesitates to offer his help if the crew is having an issue, regardless of the time of day. Whether it's delivering material or offering an extra set of hands, he's always willing to help out.
David J. Kimble
Branch Manager | Seattle, WA
Western Specialty Contractors

Employee Spotlight | Scott Haas

Posted on January 5, 2021September 28, 2022 by Sara Bequette

Western would like to recognize Scott Haas as this month's Employee Spotlight.

Kudos, Scott—and thank you for being a valued member of the Western team!

Q&A with Scott Haas

What is your role at Western?

I am the Branch Manager of Western’s Springfield, IL branch office. My team and I specialize in the facade restoration and concrete restoration specialties in Central Illinois.

What do you like most about Western?

I like that Western is a family-owned company. Those values shine through in how our company operates day-to-day, and in how the company treats its employees and customers. The family environment that develops between office Teams, and the friendships that develop between peers, is fantastic.

What are three words to describe Western?

Forward-thinking, competitive, and collaborative.

What is your proudest moment at Western?

My proudest moment at Western was at the end of 2015 when our Springfield office reached Track 1 during my first year as the Branch Manager. I’d heard an old saying long ago that ‘it’s harder to maintain success than build success’. Jim Rechtin, Jr. built a standard of success during his time as the Branch Manager of Springfield. Keeping that success going was a responsibility I didn’t (and still don’t) take lightly. It was a tough year for us by some metrics, but thanks to the hard work from the rest of our Team, we jumped into Track 1 in the last month of the year. It was an accomplishment I won’t forget, and that football Jim handed me during the Annual Meeting still means a lot.

What has been your favorite project at Western?

There are so many great projects to choose from and it’s hard to settle on just one. If I have to pick only one, it’s probably the Hyatt Regency Parking Garage in St. Louis. It was the first big job that I sold after relocating to St. Louis 02 from Kansas City. It was also my first exposure to hydro-demolition, which was pretty awesome to see in person.

How did you first learn about Western?

I first learned about Western during my Junior year in college at the University of Nebraska-Omaha. One of the Division Managers at the time came into my Concrete Technology class and gave a presentation on concrete and concrete restoration. It opened my eyes to another side of the industry (specialty contracting) and got me out of the ‘General Contractor’ mindset.

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Before working at Western, what was the most unusual or interesting job you've ever had?

Prior to working at Western, my most interesting job was working as a commercial carpenter. We built 3-4 story wood-framed apartment buildings. I learned a lot about construction during those years, and it taught me the importance of craftsmanship and planning ahead.

What advice do you have for prospective Western candidates?

Be patient and let your development happen. There’s a natural cycle of growth and development in this industry, and it takes time to get comfortable with restoration. If you stay humble and stay patient, it will happen. There’s a lot of experience in this company; make it a point to learn from other people.

What have you gained from Working at Western?

I’ve gained lasting friendships, both inside and outside of the company. I’ve gained knowledge on how to manage a business, and manage a team.

What is on your wish list for the next 10 years with Western?

Eventually, I’d like to become a Region Manager if the right opportunity arises.

What about you? What do you personally enjoy?

I love spending time with my wife and three daughters. They’re the reason I get up every morning. I enjoy watching my wife coach soccer, and I enjoy watching my oldest two daughters play soccer. Outside of family, I love me some Nebraska Cornhuskers football (Go Big Red) and Cardinals baseball.

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Scott Haas is a career Western guy. He began as an intern at our Omaha branch, moved to become a project manager for KC, then STL Concrete, and was eventually promoted as Branch Manager for Springfield. Over the past five years, Scott has grown a small market more than anyone could have ever expected. His powerful leadership skills are proven by his consistent performance and profitability and the strong team he has created. He understands the purpose of what we do; he sees the big picture, and demonstrates what it truly means to “bleed blue.” Thank you, Scott!
Tom Brooks
Chief Operating Officer
Western Specialty Contractors

Employee Spotlight | Taeko Lemke

Posted on December 2, 2020January 14, 2021 by Sara Bequette

Taeko Lemke, this month's Employee Spotlight

Western would like to recognize Taeko Lemke as this month's Employee Spotlight.

Kudos, Taeko—and thank you for being a valued member of the Western team!

Q&A with Taeko West

What is your role at Western?

My title is Branch Administrator, but my role is to wear many hats that help the team to work together to accomplish our goals. I assist the team members both in the field and in the office by taking care of tasks that allow them to be more productive and efficient which then makes all of us more profitable.

What do you like most about Western?

Without a doubt, it is the people I work with daily at Western, including Western ALL, our Customers, and even my Vendors. I have come to treasure the friendships I have developed over the years with many within the organization, missing them as they move on. Even though miles may separate the Branch from the Home Office, I have always felt a part of the Western Family. Our Customers and even our vendors have become friends who I miss seeing socially outside of work events, due to COVID-19, and I look forward to gathering again.

What are three words to describe Western?

Family, Integrity & Quality. From day one, there was a feeling of family, being part of the team not just at the branch level but within the whole company. It became more evident when traveling to the home office for “Welcome to Western.” I saw it not as just a training session but truly an opportunity to meet the folks I would be working with regularly. I am also proud to be with a company where integrity and quality are core values. We stand behind our word and our work and it is a blessing to know I work for such a company.

What is your proudest moment at Western?

My proudest moment came just last week with the announcement that our project, FUMC, partnered with Sika, has been awarded the Special Project Category Award for ICRI and the project will be featured in the Nov/Dec 2020 issue of Concrete Repair Bulletin.

What has been your favorite project at Western?

FUMC has been a favorite restoration project. Watching the teamwork together to come up with solutions to overcome obstacles and deliver professionalism and craftsmanship throughout the project was very rewarding. At the end of the project, I was able to create a presentation that was shown to the congregation during a Sunday service which showed the transformation of the Sanctuary. Once the presentation was concluded they invited Western to come before the congregation so that they could show their appreciation to us.

How did you first learn about Western?

Back in 2008, during the recession, my hubby asked if I could find a job that would pay for the time I gave volunteering many hours at my kid’s school and my church. So, of course, I looked for a job on Craigslist and came across the ad for a Branch Administrator for Western. From there, I went to the website to learn about the company and was pleased to see that my interest in historical buildings was a discipline listed in projects performed by Western. I quickly sent in my resume.

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Before working at Western, what was the most unusual or interesting job you've ever had?

I worked as a house cleaner for my High School Orchestra Leader in my junior and senior years. Not very glamourous but it did give me a little spending money.

What advice do you have for prospective Western candidates?

Give yourself time to learn the culture, language, and the responsibilities of your position. If you allow the time to absorb the knowledge, expertise, and passion of the team members, great things can happen.

What have you gained from Working at Western?

A lifetime of stories and experiences of overcoming challenges, rejoicing in the victories, and becoming stronger together even through the losses. Basically “family.”

What is on your wish list for the next 10 years with Western?

To continue to learn, innovate, and grow in ways that would help my team to be more efficient, effective, and profitable.

If you could switch your job with anyone else within Western, whose job would you want?

Western has given me the opportunity to work beyond my traditional admin role and help in Marketing, IT, and even Operations throughout the years. That being said, I would not want to switch jobs for I have already had the freedom to serve the branch in many capacities, first because it was needed to fill in the gaps and now because I am allowed to be part of the innovation and collaboration of my team.

What about you? What do you personally enjoy?

I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, whether it is dining together, doing a group project together, or just sitting by a fire and watching the sunset. I also enjoy a good walk or hike in the forest or by any body of water. Basically, spending time outside and soaking in all that I have been blessed with.

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Taeko sets the standard for exceptional Administrators. Nothing happens at her branch without her knowing. In addition to all of her daily administrative responsibilities, Taeko also contributes to the marketing efforts, customer relationships, and keeping Jon Carden from losing his mind. Taeko has been with Western for more than 13 years. A huge thank you to Taeko and all she has done for Team San Francisco!
Tom Brooks
Chief Operating Officer
Western Specialty Contractors

Employee Spotlight | Shawn West

Posted on November 9, 2020January 14, 2021 by Sara Bequette

Western would like to recognize Shawn West as this month's Employee Spotlight.

Kudos, Shawn—and thank you for being a valued member of the Western team!

Q&A with Shawn West

What is your role at Western?

I am the Superintendent for STL Roofing. I work with my team to ensure Safety, Quality, and Productivity are at the top of the list in order to deliver the best possible product and make sure everyone makes it home to their families.

What do you like most about Western?

I think most would say culture. I have to agree. The family atmosphere, teamwork, and the drive to succeed makes it a very easy choice to stick around long term here at Western.

What are three words to describe Western?

The three words I would use are innovative, collaborative, and fun. Western is continually looking for new/improved ways to stay ahead of the competition and it takes solid teamwork in order for this to happen. Of course, you have to have a little fun and enjoy the process along the way.

What is your proudest moment at Western?

My proudest moment was my promotion to the Superintendent role. As a former field employee, I knew I wanted to try something different. I am very thankful for the opportunity.

What has been your favorite project at Western?

My favorite by far was the Washington University project. It was one of the largest waterproofing projects our branch has been a part of. The knowledge and experience that I gained in new construction and waterproofing over a two year period was, and is still, priceless.

How did you first learn about Western?

I first heard about Western from one of Western's long time foreman. He talked me into giving Western a shot as a field employee. I did. This was in 2011.

Before working at Western, what was the most unusual or interesting job you've ever had?

I have really only worked in the construction industry. Although, interestingly enough, I did have a summer job at a factory that produced some of the very products that we use in the construction field today.

What advice do you have for prospective Western candidates?

Take it all in. Never stop learning. Love what you do. There are lots of employees that have been here for years that have knowledge and experience that you can only get with time. Trust the process. Team Western will set you up for success.

What have you gained from Working at Western?

Knowledge, experience, personal development, friendships, just to name a few. Western has given me every opportunity to be successful and help me grow as an employee.

What is on your wish list for the next 10 years with Western?

I see substantial growth in the future and looking forward to being a part of that. I wish continued success to the Western team as a whole.

If you could switch your job with anyone else within Western, whose job would you want?

I would switch with anyone who has a nice window view out of their office. Only kidding. Pretty happy just where I’m at.

What about you? What do you personally enjoy?

Family, food, fitness, golf. The list goes on. Anything, where I can be around good people doing something active, is right where I want to be. If that involves a little competition, even BETTER!

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Shawn has an unshakable leadership style. He can maintain his tolerant demeanor without ever sacrificing quality. He is well respected by his team while continually expecting the most from them. Management has grown to count on him for his professional opinion, and his contribution to St. Louis Roofing is beyond appreciated. Thank you, Shawn!
Tom Brooks
Chief Operating Officer
Western Specialty Contractors

Employee Spotlight | Dave Sturdevant

Posted on October 7, 2020January 14, 2021 by Sara Bequette

Western would like to recognize Dave Sturdevant as this month's Employee Spotlight.

Kudos, Dave—and thank you for being a valued member of the Western team!

Interview with Dave Sturdevant

What is your role at Western?
“Branch Manager of the Charlotte, NC office.”
What do you like most about Western?
“Hands down the people I’ve met and get to work with.”
What are three words to describe Western?
“Best in Class.”
What is your proudest moment at Western?
“Starting in the Field as a Laborer and being able to be promoted through the ranks to Branch Manager.”
What has been your favorite project at Western?
“That’s a tough one. There have been a lot of them. Probably one of the most memorable was Beach Colony Resort in Myrtle Beach, SC. It was a 7.5 million dollar project that I sold and lived on Monday-Friday for two years. I was a Sales/Project Manager when it started. I was promoted to Branch Manager shortly after finishing it in 2007.”
How did you first learn about Western?
“I moved from a very rural area in Northern Pennsylvania to Charlotte with some buddies and we started working at a competitor of Western in 1994. Western was the name you always heard in the industry and I came to work here in 1995.”
Before working at Western, what was the most unusual or interesting job you've ever had?
“Riding the back of a garbage truck.”
What advice do you have for prospective Western candidates?
“If you’re looking for a job you can find one anywhere. If you want a career at a company that cares about its people, you've found the right place. You will get the opportunity to go as far as you want if you’re willing to put in the work.”
What have you gained from Working at Western?
“A career. Western has provided a stable place for me to work and room to advance within the company. I’ve been able to provide for and raise 2 kids. My son actually works in the field for Western now.”
What is on your wish list for the next 10 years with Western?
“Provide everyone on my team the opportunity to advance within Western as I have.”
If you could switch your job with anyone else within Western, whose job would you want?
“I’m pretty happy with mine.”
What about you? What do you personally enjoy?
“My favorite thing to do is Surf Fish on the OBX of North Carolina. I also enjoy hunting and anything near the ocean.”

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Dave Sturdevant is a Western Rock! He is a part of this great foundation and understands the driving purposes of everything we do. He understands, adheres to, and promotes SOPS and Best Practices. His background in coming up through the ranks from the field has provided him with the groundwork for success. He has dealt with his share of challenges and always remained humble and fair. He lives and breathes the family atmosphere and is it reflected in the strong team that he has created in Charlotte. Congrats Dave!! You set the standard for our culture.
Tom Brooks
Chief Operating Officer
Western Specialty Contractors