Ferguson Construction has not only been building communities for over 100 years, it also had been building generations of skilled craftsmen and craftswomen. In September of 1973, Charlie Shroyer began his 43-year tenure with the company. During that time, he diligently trained many young men and women in concrete carpentry. Now, two of those men that Charlie mentored are mentoring his granddaughter, Allison.
Hardworking perfectionism
Tom Behr and Dexter Hicks worked alongside Charlie for many years. “He taught me the proper way to finish (concrete). There are steps I still take today – steps that will take more time – but that’s the way Charlie taught me. Never be lazy, do it right the first time”, recalls Tom Behr, Crew Foreman.
With a tenure that spanned 4 decades, Charlie played a huge role in developing the skills of many Ferguson employees. “Charlie displayed tremendous loyalty to the Company and to his co-workers. Working side by side with them in the trenches, with generations of workers, guiding and teaching them to help Ferguson Construction become what it is today”, said Dexter Hicks, Field Resource Manager.
PASSING DOWN THE LOVE
Charlie not only mentored and trained his teammates at Ferguson, but he also encouraged the love of skilled trades in this family too. “I’ve been working hands-on with my father and grandfather since I was little. I’ve done concrete work and built houses and barns”, said Allison Shroyer, Charlie’s granddaughter, “My grandfather was a huge influence in my love for this type of work. While he taught me so much, I know I still have a lot to learn.”
That training has now come full circle as she is on a crew with Tom Behr. “I see a lot of Charlie in Allison”, said Tom, “It’s neat to be a part of mentoring her, just as Charlie did for me.”
Empowering Women in CONSTRUCTION
Allison’s grandfather didn’t shy away from teaching her the ways of construction simply because she was a female. In fact, he felt it was even more important to empower her with his knowledge so she knew how to take care of things for herself. “I had a good base knowledge when I came to Ferguson, thanks to him. I would encourage other women, even those without any basic skills, to not be afraid to try construction if it interests them. Everyone here has been so helpful and willing to help me learn. I am thankful for the knowledge they share.”
While Charlie is no longer with us, his legacy and love of construction live on in many active job sites.
Interested in joining our team? We are looking for hard-working men and women, like Charlie, Tom, Allison, and Dexter, who want to make a difference in the communities where they live. Explore our openings.
