The Walbec Group and three of our team members were honored as 2020 Newsmakers of the Year by the Daily Reporter! Walbec was named Road Builder of the Year and Dan Markeland, Tracey Griffith, and Steven Firari were recognized as Project Manager of the Year, Innovator of the Year, and Super Super, respectively.
Dan Markeland, P+D Project Manager, joined Walbec as a laborer and worked hard to move into roles of increasing responsibility. First, as a foreman, then as a project supervisor, and now as a project manager. Dan’s motto is, “never give up – if you want something, go after it.” That is exactly what he has done throughout his career with Walbec and he encourages others to do the same. Beginning his career in the field and learning best practices from tenured co-workers has equipped him to excel as a project manager.
Tracey Griffith, HR Outreach Manager, joined our team in 2018 bringing with her over 20 years of experience, including over 11 years building relationships in the community through her work at WRTP/BIG STEP of Wisconsin. Tracey is an advocate for connecting workers to family-sustaining jobs, supporting contractors in meeting workforce requirements, and developing innovative strategies to align entry-level workers with apprenticeships and employment opportunities.
Steve Firari, ZTI crew leader, grew up watching his dad work for ZTI and decided he wanted to follow in his footsteps. Steve began his career as a laborer almost 25 years ago. His strong work ethic led and drive him to take on additional responsibility with the Walbec team, join the Pile Drivers union, and then become a crew leader. He values a hard day’s work for a great wage and excellent benefits, which in turn allow him to provide for his family.
Walbec was also recognized as Roadbuilder of the Year and our entire team is celebrating! We know that it’s when we are all committed to quality, safety, innovation, community, and respect, that great things happen and tough problems are solved.
It’s always nice to be recognized and appreciated for hard work and commitment to raising the bar in the construction industry. We thank the Daily Reporter for recognizing Walbec and congratulate all of the honorees for this well-deserved achievement.
