A conversation with Jeff Hunt, owner and president of EHC, Inc.
Improving market conditions in Southwest Florida led site construction company EHC, Inc. to experience a rise in projects and workload that started in 2013 and has continued through 2014. Jeff Hunt, owner and president of EHC, Inc., shared in a recent conversation his take on continuing to have a strong labor force.
MCS: Are you seeing an influx of new hires and what is the response to the growth?
HUNT: We have experienced significant economic growth in the Southwest Florida market. Over the past year, EHC has more than doubled our resources based on the recent improvement. As the market demands, we plan to continually augment resources and enhance systems, while maintaining our fundamental business cornerstones of honesty, integrity, quality, and competency.
MCS: What is the average age of new hires?
HUNT: EHC has a diversified group of new employees. The younger hires tend to be more entry level, office personnel with whom we can train on processes, systems, etc. Our focus of growth tends to be in the field, such as operators, laborers, foremen, and so on. Quite a few of our new team members are new to the area and/or are middle-aged. Because of the process involved in learning the trade, finding talent with an established skill set often equates to years of experience. We have been fortunate to attract applicants who have the ambition and qualifications to be employed at a higher level. Within a year, they have then earned the opportunity for advancement. Those who have succeeded in companies, such as ours, not only have drive and talent, but also have the ability to find creative solutions.
MCS: What measures are you putting in place to fill vacancies from those retiring from your workforce?
HUNT: EHC is currently formalizing a training process, including certifications. Our senior employees understand the necessity of providing time to up-and-comers, but a lot depends on the individual and goes back to drive. It is our responsibility as a company to offer competitive compensation packages including benefits, goal-based incentives, and project opportunities, while motivating and communicating with the team to recruit and retain the best of the best.
At EHC, we actively strive to bring out the best in our employees and reward based on performance. EHC recognizes each employee’s strengths and provides mentoring and training opportunities, as well as supports education for continuous improvement. Technology could assist in bridging the gap between training and experience. With the new systems and equipment—some of which are like playing a video game—the industry may attract additional talent and decrease operation training time.
MCS: What would you tell a person or high school student about construction as a career? What are the perks to the business?
HUNT: Ones that come through the trades have something to be proud of—they are skilled workers. It takes effort to gain proficiency in the skills necessary for our industry. While construction is hard work, it is an admirable and steady career that pays well above minimum wage. Construction trade skills have been in demand for centuries and will continue to be. I would encourage a high school student to get involved in the profession, go to trade school or college, learn the process, and continue to gain hands-on experience.
MCS: What is your forecast for year-end and 1-3 years from now?
HUNT: EHC forecasts a normal growth pattern, and we see people retiring. We will continue to hire and encourage skilled laborers and operators who have the ambition to grow with the company. The company prides itself on our reputation of fostering long-lasting relationships and providing valuable services with a professional, reliable, and qualified team. No matter the market, EHC stays true to our original mission statement, which is why we have satisfied and repeat clients, relationships spanning decades, and top-tier talent. ■
About The Author
Jeff Hunt is owner and president of EHC, Inc., a construction company that provides pre-construction, earthwork, and infrastructure services. Established in 1990, EHC remains committed to excellence from pre-planning to project completion through the latest technology, proven processes, and an experienced team. For more information, call 239.592.0828, or visit www.ehcconstruction.com.
Modern Contractor Solutions, October 2014
Did you enjoy this article?
Subscribe to the FREE Digital Edition of Modern Contractor Solutions Magazine!
