Hank Adams Kiewit, a name that rings bells in the construction world. Who’s this guy, and why’s he so important? Let’s dive into the story of a man who’s shaped some of America’s biggest building projects.
From Field Engineer to Executive VP
Hank Adams didn’t start at the top. Back in 1979, he joined Peter Kiewit Sons’ Company as a field engineer[2]. That’s right, he was out there in the mud and dust, learning the ropes from the ground up.
But Hank wasn’t content to stay put. He worked his way up, showing he had what it takes to lead. Now, he’s the Executive Vice President of Kiewit Infrastructure Group[5]. That’s quite a climb!
His journey shows that hard work and smarts can take you far. Hank’s story is like a blueprint for success in the construction world.
Building Big: Hank’s Major Projects
Hank’s got his fingerprints all over some huge projects. Remember the Queens Borough Bridge reconstruction? That was one of his[2]. And let’s not forget the $600 million Willis Avenue Bridge rebuild. Hank was right there, leading the charge.
These aren’t just any old bridges. We’re talking about vital links in New York City’s transportation network. Millions of people use these bridges every day, probably without knowing the guy who helped make them happen.
Hank’s work doesn’t stop at bridges, though. He’s been involved in all sorts of projects, from highways to power plants. Each one is a testament to his skill and leadership.
Leadership That Builds More Than Structures
Hank’s not just about bricks and steel. He’s a people person too. As part of Kiewit’s executive committee, he helps shape the company’s direction[2].
His leadership style? It’s all about teamwork and innovation. Hank knows that great things happen when smart people work together. He’s always pushing for new ideas and better ways of doing things.
This approach has helped Kiewit stay at the top of its game. Under leaders like Hank, the company’s become known for taking on tough jobs and doing them well.
Education: The Foundation of Success
Now, you might be wondering, “What kind of schooling does it take to become a big shot in construction?” Well, Hank’s got some interesting credentials.
He’s got an AAS degree in applied science from the State University of New York, Delhi[2]. But he didn’t stop there. Hank went on to get a bachelor’s degree in construction engineering from Fairleigh Dickinson University.
This mix of practical and theoretical knowledge has served Hank well. It’s given him the tools to understand both the nitty-gritty details of construction and the big-picture planning that major projects need.
Kiewit: A Company Built on Excellence
Hank Adams isn’t just any executive at any old company. Kiewit’s a big deal in the construction world. We’re talking about a firm that’s been around for over 135 years[4].
Under leaders like Hank, Kiewit’s grown into a powerhouse. They’re known for tackling all sorts of projects: industrial, building, mining, oil, gas & chemical, power, transportation, and water[4].
And they’re not just big, they’re good at what they do. Kiewit’s won all sorts of awards and recognitions. They’ve been ranked in the Top 50 Best Workplaces by the Great Place to Work® Institute Canada for over a decade[4].
Safety First: A Kiewit Hallmark
One thing that sets Kiewit apart is its focus on safety. And you can bet Hank Adams is a big part of that.
Kiewit’s safety record is impressive. They perform ten times better than the industry average when it comes to safety[4]. That’s not just a number – it means fewer accidents, fewer injuries, and workers who can go home to their families at the end of the day.
This commitment to safety isn’t just good for workers. It’s good business too. Clients know they can trust Kiewit to get the job done right and safely.
Innovation: Building the Future
Hank Adams and Kiewit aren’t content with doing things the old way. They’re always looking for new, better ways to build.
Under leaders like Hank, Kiewit’s embraced new technologies and techniques. They’re not just building structures – they’re building the future of construction.
This focus on innovation helps Kiewit take on projects that others might shy away from. It’s part of what’s made them a leader in the industry.
The Moles: Recognition from Peers
Here’s something cool: Hank Adams was elected President of The Moles[10]. Now, if you’re not in construction, you might be thinking, “What’s the big deal about some rodents?” But The Moles isn’t about furry critters – it’s a prestigious organization for folks in the heavy construction industry.
Being elected President of The Moles is a big honor. It shows that Hank’s peers in the industry respect him and value his leadership.
This role gives Hank a platform to shape the future of the construction industry. He’s not just building projects – he’s helping to build the next generation of construction leaders.
Challenges in Construction: Hank’s Approach
Construction isn’t all smooth sailing. There are always challenges, from tough terrain to tight budgets to unexpected problems.
But Hank Adams has made a career out of tackling these challenges head-on. His approach? A mix of careful planning, innovative thinking, and good old-fashioned hard work.
Under Hank’s leadership, Kiewit’s taken on some seriously tough jobs. And time and again, they’ve come through, delivering projects that stand the test of time.
The Human Side of Construction
Now, you might think construction is all about concrete and steel. But for Hank Adams, it’s really about people.
Throughout his career, Hank’s shown a knack for bringing out the best in his teams. He knows that every great project is the result of many people working together.
This focus on people extends beyond Kiewit’s employees. Hank understands that construction projects affect communities. He’s always looking for ways to make sure Kiewit’s work benefits the people who’ll be living with it long after the construction crews have gone home.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Construction
While we can’t predict the future, we can say this: the construction industry is always changing. New materials, new techniques, new challenges – it’s a field that never stands still.
Leaders like Hank Adams are key to navigating these changes. With decades of experience under his belt, Hank’s seen a lot of changes in the industry. But more importantly, he’s helped drive many of those changes.
As Executive VP at Kiewit, Hank’s in a position to shape the company’s direction for years to come. And given Kiewit’s influence in the industry, that means he’s helping shape the future of construction itself.
The Legacy of Leadership
Hank Adams Kiewit’s career is more than just a series of successful projects. It’s a testament to the power of leadership, innovation, and hard work.
From his early days as a field engineer to his current role as Executive VP, Hank’s shown what it takes to succeed in the tough world of construction. He’s tackled big projects, embraced new technologies, and always put safety first.
But perhaps most importantly, Hank’s helped build more than just structures. He’s helped build a company culture at Kiewit that values excellence, innovation, and people. And that’s a legacy that will last long after the last brick is laid.
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