Fourty-two members of Alabama’s construction community are being recognized by the Alabama Associated General Contractors as AGC’s 40 Under 40 for 2024. The group will be honored at an event Oct. 3 at Birmingham’s Back Forty Beer Company.
Here’s a look at this year’s honorees:
Abram “Abe” Wm. Bailey, 38
Abe Bailey began working for the land surveying company run by his dad, Wiley “Tommy” Bailey, in 1998, spending his summers and weekends as a rodman and brush cutter. He became an instrument man by 16 and a crew chief by 18. After graduating from high school, he attended night classes at Alabama Southern Community College while working full-time. He later earned his bachelor’s degree in surveying and geomatics from Troy University. After graduating from college, he started working at McInnis Construction as a field engineer in 2012, and by 2018, had been promoted to project manager. Since 2021, he has served as the company’s preconstruction manager. “Just this year, 2024, Abe assisted in the process of the largest single job, bid and awarded to the company in its history,” said Timothy McInnis. When not at work, Bailey spends time with his wife, Erica, and his two sons.
J. Hunter Barkley, 33
A 2014 graduate of the University of Alabama with a degree in construction engineering, J. Hunter Barkley spent four years with the Alabama Department of Transportation before starting his career at Midsouth Paving Inc. in 2017. Currently serving as operations manager over the Dothan area, Barkley has managed several key projects, including the Rip Hewes Stadium renovation, several municipality projects and multiple ALDOT resurfacing projects throughout the Wiregrass. He is an active member of the Dothan Area Young Professionals, an organization affiliated with the Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce. He and other members participate in community outreach programs and take part in professional development. He also is a member of the Wiregrass Area chapter of the American Society of Civil Engineers.
Chris Barksdale, 36
Chris Barksdale is a senior superintendent at Capstone Building Corp., where he has successfully managed several high-profile projects, including The Moderne at Providence in Huntsville, a 383,130-square-foot apartment complex; the Stoneridge Villas, phases I and II, in Huntsville, a senior living complex; and Alexandria Apartments in Huntsville, a 338,792-square-foot, garden-style apartment complex. In addition, he is currently working on the $90 million The Colina in Hoover, which is set to be the largest apartment complex in Hoover. In total, he has had a hand in projects valued at more than $205 million. “Chris’ adept management of complex projects, ability to problem solve proactively, gain trust from clients and consistently exceed expectations make him a distinguished leader in the construction industry,” said Carl McKinney, senior project manager at Capstone Building.
Shawn Blakely, 31
Shawn Blakely has worked for White-Spunner Construction for more than seven years, beginning his career there with three internships while earning his bachelor’s degree in building science at Auburn University. As an estimator, Blakely works closely with clients, subcontractors and vendors to bring projects to fruition. In addition, as an estimator II, he now bids and oversees special projects. To date, he has estimated nearly $1.5 billion in construction value with projects ranging up to $140 million. “Shawn’s attention to detail ensures accurate and optimized estimates, leading to high-quality projects delivered within budget and on schedule,” said Emily Schultz, senior marketing specialist with White-Spunner. When not on the job, Blakely enjoys spending time with his wife, Shelby, and is active in his church.
Manson Brooks, 36
Manson Brooks is vice president of strategy for Rogers & Willard Inc. His strategic vision and technology integration has transformed the workflows, enhancing project outcomes and financial reporting, according to Michael Rogers, owner of the company. “He has streamlined processes across departments, leading to reduced operational costs and improved efficiency,” Rogers said. Brooks also works in the areas of project management, estimating and business development. Brooks is a University of Alabama graduate with a degree in commerce and business administration. When not at work, he actively participates in several charitable endeavors, such as the Hogs for a Cause in New Orleans. He also serves on the board of the Alabama Contemporary Art Center. He has been involved with Associated General Contractors’ Mobile Section for four years.
Phillip Bryan, 36
Phillip Bryan joined T. E. Stevens Co. Inc. in 2020, bringing well over a decade of experience in technology to the team. As virtual design and construction manager, Bryan has spearheaded the implementation of a VDC program at the company, significantly enhancing project efficiency and accuracy. He also manages IT issues, oversees device deployment and handles GPS machine operations. Most recently, he has expanded his experience into drones, which have been used to identify and address issues early on the job site. When not at work, Bryan and his wife, Emily, mentor youth through various organizations, including Big Brothers Big Sisters, and are active in their church. Bryan also enjoys mountain biking.
Halston Carter, 37
Halston Carter started working with his dad at age 11, growing up as the company, Grayson Carter and Son Contracting Inc., was also expanding into underground utility installation and then into subdivision development. Today, Carter serves as president of the company his father started in 1987. He has introduced new technology to the equipment, making the company’s work more precise and increasing production. During his presidential tenure, the company has continued to grow, with an expected 500 employees by the end of 2024. The company now has job sites all over the region in municipal, government, residential and commercial construction. Carter also has been involved with Associated General Contractors’ North section for more than 15 years.
John Charles Crow, 31
John Charles Crow serves as chief executive officer of Garnet Electric Co. A graduate of the University of North Alabama, Crow began his career at Garnet Electric in 2016, where he worked in the field as a project manager. In 2021, he was promoted to vice president. He and his business partner purchased the company in 2022. He is an active member of the Associated General Contractors, is a member of the board for the NECA Gulf Coast Chapter of the North Alabama Electrical JATC Committee and is mayor pro tem of St. Florian, Alabama, where he enjoys spending time with his wife and two young children on the farm. His hobbies include traveling, camping, golfing and hunting.
Rachel Finch, 39
Rachel Finch is geotechnical department manager of GTEC. GTEC provides engineering, environmental and testing services for clients in Huntsville and North Alabama. A graduate of the Georgia Institute of Technology, she brings extensive knowledge of the industry to her work. “Rachel is a great example of a successful engineer and someone who has established herself not just as a prominent woman in construction, but as a game-changing leader in the industry,” said Kasi Phillips, of GTEC.
Simon Fox, 38
Simon Fox is a manager with Wilkins Miller, an accounting and advisory firm headquartered in the Mobile Bay region. A graduate of the University of Alabama with a bachelor’s degree in commerce and business administration, Fox has nearly a decade of experience in public accounting. He began his career in insurance and joined Wilkins Miller in 2015 as a staff accountant, where his performance, leadership qualities and commitment to excellence led to his promotion to manager. The firm serves more than 100 construction and construction-related businesses, many of which Fox collaborates closely with. His deep understanding of the industry has led him to tailor solutions for his clients and the firm. His areas of special competence include audits, reviews and compliance of non-public companies, employee benefit plans and nonprofit organizations. He is a member of the Alabama Society of Certified Public Accountants and the Association of International Certified Public Accountants, as well as the advisory council of the Mobile Chapter of the Alabama Society of CPAs.
Eric Fulmer, 37
Serving as workforce development director for Wiregrass Construction Co. since 2021, Eric Fulmer manages initiatives that focus on attracting, retaining and training employees throughout the company’s footprint, along with other human resource responsibilities. To that end, he has established a leadership development program for aspiring foremen, a mentorship program for entry-level construction employees and an orientation program for all new employees. His career spans nearly two decades in roles with a similar focus. A graduate of Troy University, his experience includes working in defense, nuclear, manufacturing and construction. He currently serves on Alabama’s Workforce Development Board and actively participates in the selection of construction textbooks for schools, developing apprenticeships for construction trades and serving on task forces that have created construction courses taught at community colleges. He, his wife and two sons reside in Birmingham.
Bobby Gagnet, 32
Bobby Gagnet serves as vice president of operations for Safety Plus Inc. He joined the company in 2014 and brings operations management, leadership development and business development skills to the company. A graduate of Louisiana State University with a bachelor’s degree in business administration and management, Gagnet has become an expert in safety, helping companies develop programs to keep their employees safe on the job site. In the community, he serves on the advisory board for the Mobile Salvation Army chapter, was a member of the Young Professionals of Mobile organization and serves as a volunteer with the Down Syndrome Society of Mobile’s Buddy Walk. He also serves on AGC Mobile’s steering committee and its safety committee and is an AGC-CLC member.
Austin Gibson, 30
Austin Gibson is a seasoned project manager at Fite Building Co. A graduate of Auburn University with a degree in civil engineering, Gibson initially honed his skills at Archer Western in Atlanta, working on significant projects such as the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport and a rail extension for MARTA. He joined Fite in 2021 and was instrumental in launching the company’s civil division. Today, Gibson oversees preconstruction and management of Fite’s self-perform operations, which has contributed to the company’s recent growth. Projects at Fite that Gibson has contributed to as project manager and civil manager include the Polyplex Line 14 in Decatur, USSRC Cyber Camp in Huntsville, Gregory Industries in Athens and Ardent Preschool & Daycare in Madison. He also is involved in Associated General Contractors’ North Section.
Tim Goodin, 35
Tim Goodin began his mining career at 18, working part time as a laborer in the coal industry in Kentucky. After receiving his bachelor’s degree from Union College, he went to work full time as an equipment operator. In 2017, he and his wife, Leanna, relocated to central Alabama, where he went to work as a production manager for Ferro Globe, overseeing production crews and rail car logistics. In late 2018, he became a sorting plant manager at Elmore Sand & Gravel, where he oversaw research, design, construction and implementation of the first laser gravel sorting plant in the U.S. In 2020, he joined Wiregrass Construction as quarry manager of the Allstate operation. Today, he serves as aggregates area manager, where he oversees the company’s sand and gravel operations in Coosa, Lambert, Hickory Bend and Allstate. He has also designed and led the team that installed a secondary gravel washing system that has increased productivity by 25% at the company’s Montgomery location. Outside of work, Goodin enjoys playing country music, where he has released two albums in the last two years, both of which made the top 10 on Billboard Bluegrass and iTunes country charts. With his music, Goodin helps raise money for charitable organizations, including Healing Appalachia, which helps combat the opioid crisis, and The Mountain Girl Experience, which helps women who have experienced domestic violence.
Austin Graham, 37
Austin Graham is plant manager of the Calera quarry, one of Vulcan Materials Co.’s largest limestone quarries in Alabama. The Calera quarry serves Shelby County locally, but also supplies stone to the Gulf Coast of Alabama, Mississippi and portions of Florida. It produced almost 4 million tons of quality aggregate in 2023, much of which was used by construction firms in the state. As plant manager, Graham manages a staff of 65 people and is responsible for their safety and health. A graduate of the University of Alabama, Graham has been involved in Associated General Contractors’ Birmingham Section for more than 25 years.
Colt Greer, 33
A native of Altoona, Colt Greer joined Newell, Park & Eleazer Construction LLC earlier this year as a superintendent. He holds an associate degree in electrical engineering from Snead State Community College and a bachelor’s degree in construction management from Auburn University. In the superintendent role, he helps manage projects being built in the state. “He has a get-it-done attitude, communicates well and looks at projects and problems with an open mind,” said Luke Newell, a founder of the company. Greer has been involved with Associated General Contractors for more than 12 years. He, his wife, Stephanie, and his son, Dak, reside in Trussville.
Rachel Greer, 34
Rachel Greer serves as controller of Southern Earth Sciences Inc. She earned her bachelor’s degree in business administration from Troy University in 2011 and her MBA in accounting from Troy in 2012. She joined SES in 2014 as a staff accountant, but her work ethic and attention to detail quickly earned her recognition, leading to her promotion in 2021 to controller. In this role, she oversees all accounting and financial functions for the company. In addition to her controller position, she also serves as corporate secretary on the company’s board. “Her ability to coordinate and prepare internal and external financial statements, manage the budget process and evaluate accounting operations have been instrumental in ensuring the company’s success,” said Lewis Copeland, president of SES. Beyond her professional endeavors, Greer is an active member of her church, dedicating time to teaching a high school Sunday school class. She also has been involved in Associated General Contractors’ Mobile Section for eight years.
Kendall Hayden, 35
A native of Mobile, Kendall Hayden currently serves as project controls technical specialist II at Hargrove Engineers + Constructors. An Auburn University graduate with a degree in building science, Hayden has more than 12 years of engineering and construction project experience. She began her career at Hargrove as an intern while in college, but since coming on board as a full-time employee, Hayden has been the project controls lead, overseeing all financial aspects of a project, on more than $325 million in chemical, refining, and pulp and paper projects. Her experience allows her to focus on client relations, problem-solving, organization and time management — support she brings to multiple projects at a time, from engineering through construction. She is currently a member of Hargrove’s leadership development program, called Purview. She also is active in the Hargrove Foundation, as well as several local organizations where she utilizes her artistic talent as a painter to support the organizations’ endeavors. She and her husband and their three children like spending time on the water.
Rachel Hester, 34
A graduate of the University of Mobile with a bachelor’s degree in science with a concentration in marketing, Rachel Hester started a marketing agency after college, but in 2021, decided to return to Alabama to take over the family manufacturing business, Hartley Brothers Manufacturing, which her father and uncle started in 1983 and she now owns. She and her husband, Matt, have expanded the company outside of the Alabama Gulf Coast region. Hester plans to continue to expand the company through the growth of new technology, machinery, processes and marketing and business development. Outside of work, she serves on the University of Mobile School of Business advisory board and is active in Associated General Contractors.
Jackson Howle, 29
Getting his start with Doster Construction Co. in 2019, Jackson Howle has progressed from a laborer in the Healthcare Division to assistant superintendent. While working during the day, Howle was earning his bachelor’s degree in construction management from the University of Southern Mississippi. In his current role, he has successfully built and delivered a ground-up project, serving as lead superintendent on the project, and is currently working on a free-standing emergency department in Okaloosa, Florida. “One of the things that makes Jackson special is that along with the desire to advance, he puts in the necessary work to learn, improve and grow,” said Cobey Everett, senior vice president of field operations at Doster. In addition to his job activities, Howle is involved with AGC’s Birmingham Section.
Craig Jackson, 38
Craig Jackson serves as a project manager for Johnson Contractors Inc. in Muscle Shoals. Joining the company in 2012 as a journey ironworker performing his trade in the field, Jackson has worked his way up to his current position. In the role of project manager, he communicates with clients, architects and the lead site superintendents on current projects. He also oversees the company’s AISC Quality Control Program and Procedures. Some of the significant projects he has worked on are for TVA Nuclear, Toyota Motor, Facebook and Mazda Toyota Manufacturing. A graduate of the welding program at Northwest Shoals Community College, Jackson also is a safety-trained supervisor, has completed the OSHA 30-hour safety training and holds certifications in rigging/signaling from TVA. When not on the job, Jackson enjoys spending time with his wife and three daughters.
Joshua Maharrey, 35
Joshua Maharrey is sales/operations manager for BCC Waste Solutions LLC. Maharrey attended Auburn University. “Josh is driven and dedicated and has faithfully served BCC Waste Solutions in every single aspect of our business no matter what obstacle or task thrown his way,” said Hunter Swanzy, chief financial officer of BCC Waste Solutions. Maharrey has been involved with Associated General Contractors’ Mobile Section for eight years. When not on the job, Maharrey spends time with his wife, Miranda, and their three children.
Josh Meek, 40
Josh Meek has served in multiple positions at McElhenney Construction, including estimating, project manager and most recently taking on the role of safety director. In this new role, he has streamlined communication from the field to the office. He also helps ensure all employees are trained on each task that is required of them from the time they start on a new or upcoming project that requires special attention. “Josh does a great job implementing our safety program on a daily basis. He truly cares about work zone safety and our employees,” said Josh McElhenney, president of the company. Meek also works with the fleet operations team to make sure that maintenance and repairs are completed so that minimal downtime occurs on the job site. He attended the University of Alabama. He has been involved with Associated General Contractors’ Mobile Section for seven years.
Robert C. Morriss, 39
Robert Morriss was hired in 2009 as an assistant project manager at McAbee Construction Inc. A graduate of the University of Alabama with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering and a master’s in construction engineering, Morriss worked his way up to senior project manager, where he is responsible for modular and fabrication projects. A few of the projects he has managed are the MHIA carbon capture in Mobile, the Valero Benicia refinery expansion in California, the Cricket Valley Power Plant in New York, the Southfield Power Plant in Ohio and the NASA mobile launcher at Cape Canaveral, Florida. Morriss also is a member of McAbee’s ESOP Communication Committee.
Collin Niblett, 36
A native of Rome, Georgia, Collin Niblett is a project manager with GC Specialties Inc. After graduating from the University of Alabama with a geology degree, Niblett moved to Mobile where he worked offshore in the oil and gas industry as a field geologist. He then made a career change and worked with APM Terminals (Maersk) in the vessel department, where he oversaw unloading and loading of container ships in the Port of Mobile. He then made the move to the construction industry with GC Specialties, where he has worked for the past three years. “Collin is a reliable, selfless team player. He’s shown dedication to the company’s long-term growth and the daily well-being of each employee at GC Specialties,” said Luci Whitworth, president of the company. He is active in Associated General Contractors.
Che Odom, 39
Che Odom is director of construction administration for Rabren General Contractors. A veteran of the construction industry, getting her start in 2005 while attending Troy University, she joined Rabren in 2017, building upon her experience in roles that included executive assistant, project engineer, marketing coordinator and business operations manager. “Whether putting together proposals and prequalification packets, leading her team of construction administrators or helping improve the business with best practices, Che brings a servant leadership mentality to better help those around her,” said Jacob Drescher, vice president, corporate for RGC. In addition to her daily duties, Odom also participates in the company’s college recruiting efforts and mentoring student interns and co-ops. Odom and her husband, Patrick, have two young children, Peyton and Jase.
Chandler Owens, 30
Chandler Owens is project manager at John G. Walton Construction Co. Inc. A graduate of Auburn University with a civil engineering degree, Owens has worked in the construction industry for several years, including for a large general contractor that specialized in multifamily construction. “Chandler has done an outstanding job in a very short time at John G. Walton Construction Co.,” said Johnny Walton, president of the company. “He is learning the business and has really picked it up well.” Owens has been involved in Associated General Contractors’ Mobile Section for three years. When not on the job, Owens enjoys spending time with his two sons, hunting and fishing.
Alex Patrick, 40
Alex Patrick is a survey superintendent with Ammons & Blackmon Construction LLC. Patrick started his career at Ammons & Blackmon in 2008, where he started as a laborer. However, his strong work ethic, reliability and understanding of the intricacies involved in concrete placement and field layout quickly had him moving up the ranks. As he progressed, he began overseeing and managing multiple crews and projects simultaneously. “His hands-on approach and willingness to tackle challenges head-on earned him the respect and admiration of both his colleagues and teammates,” said Chad Ammons, vice president, estimator and project manager with the company. In his current role, Patrick now oversees the entire concrete placement and field layout operations. Patrick also is committed to professional development and mentors teammates. When not on the job, Patrick volunteers with youth organizations and coaches youth sports.
Jonathan Carter Pritchard, 33
Carter Pritchard got his start with Dunn Construction as a summer intern in 2014. After graduating from the University of Alabama with a civil engineering degree, Pritchard joined Dunn Construction full time and now serves as a senior estimator. Pritchard emphasizes customer service, recognizing the impact it has on business success and client satisfaction. He also prioritizes innovation, encouraging creativity, problem solving and continuous improvement in those he works with. In addition to serving Associated General Contractors and Associated Builders & Contractors, Pritchard serves as a mentor for Dunn University’s Impact Program, a leadership program aimed at developing and supporting the next generation of leaders for the company. When not at work, Pritchard enjoys spending time with his wife, Jenna, golfing and traveling.
Forress Rayford Jr., 39
Forress Rayford Jr. has been working for his family’s business, Rayford & Associates, for almost 16 years. The company is a distributor of contract hardware, architectural flush wood doors, hollow metal doors and frames, construction specialties and residential bath fixtures and accessories. He started his career as an estimator and now serves as president of Rayford & Associates. Rayford is active with AGC’s Young Construction Forum. He also is involved in the Mobile community where he has served various organizations including the Mobile Carnival Association, the Senior Bowl Committee and was a member of the Leadership Mobile Class of 2015. He currently serves on the board of Volunteers of America. In his free time, Rayford enjoys coaching his children’s sports teams, hunting, fishing and spending time with his family.
Alec Reeves, 29
A native of Dothan, Alec Reeves joined Reeves & Shaw Construction LLC in 2019, shortly after earning his degree in civil engineering from Auburn University. Currently he wears several hats at the company, including estimator, project manager and civil engineer. “His strong work ethic and communication skills with architects, engineers, owners and subcontractors has allowed us to grow the business and provide exceptional service to our clients,” said Ron Reeves, president of Reeves & Shaw. The company specializes in both commercial and residential construction. Alec Reeves is also active in the community, serving with the Rotary Club in Dothan and hosting a monthly supper club with family friends. He and his wife, Chandler, have two young children.
Rob Reid, 35
Rob Reid worked as an ironworker for several years after graduating from high school. He then decided to go to Auburn University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in building science. After graduating, he worked in the industrial field for several years before joining Rolin Construction in 2022, where he currently serves as project manager. “With a solid background in construction management and a sharp eye for business intelligence, Rob leverages data-driven strategies to enhance Rolin’s operations,” said Stephanie Rolin, president of Rolin Construction. He currently is senior project lead for the $54 million LeFlore High School upgrades in Mobile. When not at work, Reid enjoys traveling and spending time with his family.
Drew Scott, 35
Throughout his 11-year tenure at BL Harbert International, Drew Scott has led teams through procurement and delivery of some of the company’s most high-profile and challenging federal projects. As an operations manager, Scott has worked on 11 contracts, totaling just under $1 billion, at Tyndall Air Force Base in Florida, where he is responsible for recruiting and building teams and then leading them towards a common goal. “With a keen eye on strategy for all aspects of our business, Drew leads by example and works hard daily to build others around him professionally and personally,” said Michael Eidson, vice president, federal operations for BL Harbert. Outside of work, Scott and his family are involved in supporting The Bell Center, which provides early intervention services to families with young children who are at risk for developmental delays.
Wheeler Sewell, 34
Wheeler Sewell is an estimator and project manager at Russo Corp. in Birmingham. A native of Birmingham, he is a graduate of the University of Alabama with a bachelor’s in civil engineering. He joined Russo shortly after graduating from college in 2013. Today, Sewell is one of the lead estimators and project managers for Russo, serving on several projects throughout the Southeast and in Texas, with the company’s division there. “He creates an enjoyable atmosphere to work around that keeps all of us on our toes,” said Sam Brown, a professional engineer and project manager at Russo Corp. Outside the office, he enjoys hunting, fly fishing and traveling and cooking with his wife.
Jack Sommer, 40
Jack Sommer has worked at Bailey-Harris Construction Co. for just under 7 years. Currently, he serves as project director and has managed some of the company’s “toughest projects with the toughest teams,” said Ben Sims, vice president of project management at Bailey-Harris. He has a bachelor’s degree in logistics and supply chain management from the University of Tennessee and a master’s in building construction from Auburn University. As project director, Sommer has overseen projects at Auburn University, East Alabama Health’s Spencer Cancer Center and the Equal Justice Initiative’s Freedom Monument Sculpture Park. Sommer also is a member of the company’s Corporate Social Responsibility department. In the community, he is actively engaged with the Alabama Sheriff’s Youth Ranches. He and his wife, Kelly, have four children.
Will Price Stahl, 38
Will Price Stahl has served as a project manager for S&S Sprinkler for almost a decade, covering the territory that includes Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia and Florida. A native of Kentucky, he attended the University of Kentucky where he studied agriculture economics and math. He started working for S&S in 2016, and as project manager, has overseen more than 250 projects, including work at the Airbus campus in Mobile, SSAB, Grandview Medical Center, Alabama Port Authority, Evonik and several sawmills for various companies including Westervelt and Georgia-Pacific. Outside of work, Stahl likes tennis and woodworking. He and his family, which includes his wife, Curry Moore Stahl, and his three daughters, live in Mobile.
Brian Thach, 38
Brian Thach got his start as a co-op student with Southern Nuclear from 2007-2010 while earning his engineering degree at the University of Alabama. He then joined Southern Nuclear full time, where he served in several engineering roles leading up to performing many project management-type functions. After graduating from Highlands College with a certificate in ministry leadership in 2017, he served for two years on the pastoral side, helping to launch the McCalla Campus of Church of the Highlands. As the church grew, Thach oversaw multiple campus construction projects. He joined Hancock Construction in early 2023, where he serves as senior project manager. During his time with Hancock, he has helped build several residential-style projects, from townhomes and lofts to private residences. He also has overseen a Class A office space renovation. When not on the job, Thach is still active with Church of the Highlands – Greystone Campus and also enjoys coaching his two children’s sports teams.
Chase Traffica, 33
Chase Traffica is vice president of Turner Insurance & Bonding Co., where he provides insurance, risk management and surety options to clients in the construction and transportation industries. A graduate of the University of Louisiana with a master’s from Samford University, Traffica is currently completing his Ph.D. in psychology. His expertise in the industry has been developed over many years working with construction clients. To that end, he has developed risk management tools specific to the construction and transportation industries. He is a member of several committees, including the Associated General Contractors of America’s National Construction Leadership Committee. He holds the designations of CRIS: Construction Risk Insurance Specialist and TRIP: Transportation Risk Insurance Professional and was recognized as a Global Top 100 Insurance Innovator in 2022 by Lightico. Beyond his professional achievements, Traffica is involved in several community initiatives.
Adam Waldron, 39
Adam Waldron is an underwriting director for CNA Surety. A graduate of Auburn University with a double major in finance and economics, Waldron has held several positions with CNA including underwriting consultant and underwriting manager before being promoted to director — the youngest person to ever be promoted to this position with the company. Over his 17 years with the company, he has built lifelong relationships in the construction industry, helping contractors grow and achieve their goals through surety support, financial guidance and contract risk review. During that time, he has been a member of the Alabama Surety Association, where he served as president in 2017; was named an emerging leader with CNA Financial and was named to the Young Professional Leadership group of Surety and Fidelity Association of America. He has an Associate in Fidelity and Surety Bonding designation. When not at work, Waldron enjoys serving as a coach for the Briarwood Soccer Club and the Hoover Rec League. He also is active in Oak Mountain Presbyterian Church, where he serves as youth Sunday school teacher and life group leader.
Josh White, 38
Josh White’s start at Brasfield & Gorrie was, in his own words, “by accident.” While attending the University of West Florida at age 16, he needed a job, so he started working with Brasfield & Gorrie on the Waterscape Condominiums project in Ft. Walton Beach, Florida. The team was so impressed with his work ethic that by the time the project ended, he was offered a role in the company’s Safety Department. Today, he serves as the Central Group safety director, where he directly manages five employees and checks in with regional safety teams at job sites throughout the region. In addition to implementing safety controls for nearly half the company’s active project portfolio, White is active in several professional organizations, including the American Society of Safety Professionals. He also is a frequent speaker regarding safety issues at construction events in Alabama, Georgia and Mississippi. In his spare time, White volunteers with several organizations, including Hope Works and Cobb Street Ministries in Atlanta, Georgia, and United Way of Central Alabama.
Blake Wilson, 35
Blake Wilson joined Dunn Building Co. as an industrial services manager in October 2023, coming from Hill & Wilkinson General Contractors in Austin, Texas. A Drury University graduate, Wilson was involved in real estate and was a partnership manager at Positive Coaching Alliance prior to joining Hill & Wilkinson, where he worked for six years before moving to Athens and joining Dunn Building Co. “Blake is a very hard-working young man,” said Craig Fowler, vice president and Tennessee Valley area manager for Dunn Building. “His business is built upon relationships, therefore he is constantly trying to strengthen his relationship with existing customers, while at the same time building relationships with new ones.” Since coming to Alabama, Wilson has been involved with both Associated General Contractors and Associated Builders and Contractors, and recently spent the day with Lincoln Village Ministry, helping them with painting and sheetrock installation.
Dillan Zweygardt, 38
Dillan Zweygardt joined Caddell Construction as an assistant superintendent in 2017. A graduate of Kansas State University, Zweygardt set himself apart on the job site, allowing him to quickly become a leader. Now as a project superintendent he leads a field team of 11 and oversees subcontractor management. In his current role, he has managed some significant projects, including a $90 million stadium renovation on a very tight schedule. “Dillan is one of our most talented and trusted project superintendents at Caddell,” said Stephen Strickland, senior vice president, governmental at Caddell. “He is certainly vital to our continued growth in governmental work, especially in the federal market. This space is very nuanced and requires many intricacies and specific skill sets that few in the industry possess.” Zweygardt also seeks out additional training to improve his skills, including receiving the OSHA 30-hour Certification, USACE Construction Quality Management for Contractors training and being certified as an ACI Concrete Field Testing Technician. When not on the job site, he is active in his community, where he serves as a co-leader for the Young Adults and Families Sunday School class and participates in the church band. He and his wife are active volunteers with 4H programs in community schools.
This originally appeared in the September 2024 issue of Business Alabama magazine.
