Reflecting On the Last Two Decades with Field Manager, Eddie Rollings

Eddie Rollings is one of our longest tenured teammates, celebrating his 20th anniversary in 2023. He has been with HGC through a number of milestones, mergers and even changes in leadership. In this interview, he rewound the calendar back to 2003 and shared his journey over the last two decades with us.

Q: Explain your career journey. What positions have you held at HGC?

A: When I was hired as an equipment operator, I was the 30th person on the HGC team. Over the years, I advanced to foreman and then superintendent. Most of my time at HGC has been spent in the field, but I am currently on the Team Development Group as the Field Manager.

Our team provides strategic classroom, simulator and field training to our teammates so they are safer and more confident in their positions. I also assist with interviewing candidates and presenting during New Hire Orientation each week. Both of these touchpoints are critical for us to communicate our core values and expectations.

Q: What do you think has been the key to your success at HGC?

A: While I have been fortunate in my career to explore different opportunities, what I have not lost sight of is treating everyone like they matter. Being kind and respectful while also listening to my teammates has allowed me to overcome many obstacles. I have also learned it is important to approach each project with a game plan and remain calm if the plan has to be modified along the way.

Q: We wanted to learn more about you from one of your teammates, so let’s hear what Katie Page, Director of Team Development has to say!

A: Eddie brings more than two decades of experience to the table when it comes to his knowledge of the industry. He also has the ability to connect with others easily and mentor in a way that builds the confidence of others. He has been an integral part of building our classroom curriculum as well as our field training initiatives. His knowledge and expertise helped bring to life the vision of HGC as teaching company. It’s rare to find someone who is so incredibly knowledgeable and just as passionate about sharing that knowledge with others. We’re lucky to have him as a teacher, trainer and mentor!

Q: You have been with the team through some pretty major changes. Tell us what it was like to work under the leadership of Larry Hoopaugh.

A: Larry was an incredible leader. He was 100% business during work hours and was one of the most fun and caring people outside of the office. He helped me view tough situations through a different lens that still sticks with me today. If there was ever an issue, Larry would get creative to find a solution. He helped teach me how to remain calm during high-stress situations. His leadership help build HGC into what it is today.

Q: What has been the biggest change you have seen in the last 20 years?

A: The way projects are completed have changed tremendously! When I started, every operator could look at a set of plans and translate the information into field stakes. We certainly didn’t have the high-tech equipment and tools that we have today! Part of our trainings now cover the basics of a job site so that our teammates have even more knowledge of what is going on around them.

Q: What change would you like to see next?

A: I would love to see our community and school partners shift their mindset around the construction industry. There are real opportunities at HGC, and in this industry, for young adults to have a long, rewarding career. We are trying to change the narrative to attract the most talented young minds to join our team!

Q: What is one piece of advice you would give to someone considering a career in construction?

A: Be patient. There is a starting point to everything, but never a finish line. There is a lot to learn so be a sponge and soak it all up! It also won’t be easy. This industry requires a lot of discipline and dedication, but you won’t have to do it alone. There will be a team around you to help provide support and guidance every step of the way.

Q: What is your favorite part of coming to work every day?

A: I never really feel like I am working! I love my job and am lucky enough to have a great team around me, so I am thankful I get to do something I enjoy every day with some of the best people around!

Q: What do you think makes the HGC team unique?

A: At HGC, we don’t have ‘bosses.’ We are a team of 720+ leaders, and everyone is treated equally. Our focus is to empower each other to be better every day and strive to accomplish the same vision … to be the best! I am looking forward to another 20 years with the team!