2022 Contractor of the Year: Colorado Contractor Relies on Reputation
2022 Contractor of the Year: Colorado Contractor Relies on Reputation
Abstract
Photo courtesy of JHL ConstructorsRelationship BuildingAbout 80% of JHL's work comes from repeat clients. Photo courtesy of JHL ConstructorsA 100% Colorado-based business, JHL self-performs much of its work, from structural concrete and earthwork to utilities and carpentry. "We spend a lot of time and money on walking the walk." -Ben Stellor, President & CEO, JHL Constructors "Our ability to grow," Wahl says, "Is strictly our ability to attract and grow great talent."In the early days of diversification, when JHL was still known mostly for its K-12 portfolio, Wahl says the firm chased work to prove its broader expertise. "With a leadership team of four, all in their low-40s, Wahl says they have a motivated group eager to see JHL continue to expand.While the firm is now about a 60-40 split between what it calls its vertical work and horizontal work, Stellor says leaders are careful not to silo the two and embrace the market diversification unique for a regional company of JHL's size."The multifaceted nature of our company means we are able to serve clients in multiple markets," he says. "On the civil side, JHL's projects include a $30-million mine project, a $53-million water and sanitation project, an $80-million industrial development and a $40-million Port of Colorado project. Those projects, along with continued education work across the state, help JHL maintain its growth in multiple sectors while staying laser focused on each client's goals."These guys are generous to a fault," Meuli says. "The Aurora Highlands Tributary & CMaR project features more than 200 acres of civil work and the stabilization of a primary tributary. Photo courtesy of JHL ConstructorsEmployee BenefitsProject manager Diego Rodriguez has worked at JHL since graduating from Colorado Mesa University. His first job for the contractor was serving as project engineer for a 2017 school project. He says he has been"coached and mentored" to be ready for his current position of project manager. "The Parker Water & Sanitation District's new headquarters building will be complete in 2023.Photo courtesy of JHL ConstructorsHall says that in an industry with wages competitive across firms, people gravitate toward JHL because of the benefits of a work-life balance."They work those guys hard," he says, "but give them opportunities to take a Friday afternoon off and encourage them to take vacation.
