I grew up around heavy equipment and became familiar with Hazel through family members that have worked here and till this day, still do. I started setting grade stakes for the dirt crew and eventually moved up to run a CAT 621 Scraper. My supervisor at the time began training me to refine my skills on other heavy equipment and I eventually ended up running a D8 dozer. I have always enjoyed operating heavy machinery as it is truly rewarding to be able to see the work that has been accomplished when you are done pushing dirt for the day.

One piece of advice I would give to entry level equipment operators would be to figure out what the machine can do and what its limitations are. Take your time to learn what each lever does and how its blade works. Be mindful of your surroundings and see what is going on because your foreman is essentially the quarterback, and we are his wide receivers.

I love what I do and what continues to motivate me every day is the people that I work with. My crew and I joke with each other, and we make our day enjoyable. It’s not always about the work that we do but it’s about the people we work with. Ultimately, the work that we do is powered by our people!

I started with Hazel as a laborer about 13 years ago. Prior to Hazel I was in the restaurant industry so when I came to the company, I learned everything that has to do with this division. I also ended up even learning more English with my crew. Because of my work quality and consistency, the superintendent gave me the opportunity to become a foreman in training. My favorite part of what we do in the punch division is installing water services. It’s very crucial for the properties that are being built to have access to water utilities.

What continues to motivate me is working with my co workers and supervisors. I feel great working along with my crew. One piece of advice I would give to someone who wants to try out the punch division is learn your responsibilities progressively and with patience. Even though I have been doing this for years, I am constantly learning new things. I am encouraged to know that there is always room for me to grow my knowledge in what we do. I look forward to continuing to grow professionally with William A. Hazel!

I started with Hazel back in the 90s as a construction laborer in the punch division. Before coming to this company, I worked in the restaurant industry so most of this type of work was new to me. From installing silt fences, adjusting manholes to even grading on a bobcat, my supervisor was able to provide me with the proper training needed to do my job well throughout the years. I more recently became interested in working in the yard operating a forklift and that opportunity was given to me. I also aid our workers that come to the yard requesting supplies so being able to be that bridge for the field is great!

We have a family culture here in the yard and we always work together to solve an issue. My supervisor trusts us with the work that we do and that allows us to continue developing our strengths. I appreciate the opportunities Hazel has provided me and others because even when you are green in this industry, they will give you a shot to learn!