Dick Anderson Construction

Do you remember your first project with DAC?

Sure. In 1981 there was a big hail storm that blew through town. I roofed all that summer for Dick. Of course, that was one of those periods of my life where I'd thought guiding elk hunters and fly fishers was a way more romantic way of life—and I left for a while. I came back on the occasion of getting married and having kids. Dick was gracious enough to give me another opportunity, and I grabbed it. I still knew all the people there. This makes year 25 with Dick Anderson Construction.

Did you ever think you'd be where you are now in the company?

No, I really didn't. It really just kind of happened naturally. Dick and his project managers continued to put more and more faith in me and my abilities, and the projects and the years that went by gave us all the experience to keep growing the company. It’s a great, great place to work. I've known Dick since '77. He just cares about his people—he and his wife Margaret, both.

Is there any advice you might have for a young person just starting out?

Balance between work and life. Looking back—my family, my wife, my kids—that’s what always drove me. The balance comes from knowing you've accomplished your best at work. And then you're out here, you have this as an option. You can come out, relax, and enjoy life—fishing, skiing, hunting, hiking––doesn't matter. And you go back to work and realize that's why you do it, and you’re proud of who you are and what you can do.

What's your main focus these days, and why is it important to you?

My main focus is our apprentice program. We've got some great young kids eager to get into the program. They're fun to be around and fun to teach. The second priority would be mentoring our young foremen and superintendents. Thirdly, we're visiting high schools and just trying to get more interest in the trades.

Are there any parallels between fly fishing and a life of working in construction?

Sure––the gratitude of a job well done. It’s really sweet to tie something on your bench at home, go out, put it in the water. Casting a fly or a jig; you put it in the right place at the right time—you land a fish. In construction, you look back at a project and the people you've worked with, and you're able to show people what you’ve done, teach them something. There’s a lot of gratitude.

Wayne, at Procore we use a term —“Groundbreaker”— to mean someone who won't really settle for the status quo; they’re relentless in what they do. They tend to seek inspiration and to inspire others. Is there anybody that you've worked with over your career that you see as a Groundbreaker?

Yes. Dick Anderson is one. It’s in how he believes in his people, the absolute support he gives.

What's your name? What's your job. And where are we right now?

I’m Wayne Stewart from Helena, Montana. I work for Dick Anderson Construction. We're on the Missouri river below Hauser Dam. And you can't buy this kind of morning, I’ll tell you what.