Sargent: On-Track Podcast: Recent Episodes
Sargent
Keeping our employee-owners informed as we work to improve the health, wealth and safety of our crew.
In this episode of the Sargent: On Track Podcast, President & CEO Eric Ritchie is joined by Workforce Advancement Manager Pete Parizo in the Flywheel Studio, along with three guests joining remotely: Senior Foreman Alex Morgan, Junior Superintendent Jacson Blais, and Dozer Operator Chandler Plante. The conversation centers on the paths these three employee-owners took from the Sargent Construction Academy (SCA) into leadership roles. Each former student shares what drew them to Sargent, often through family connections to the company, and describes their experiences going through the Academy between 2016 and 2019. They talk about their first days on the job, the mentors who helped them grow, and the moment each of them stepped into more responsibility on their crews. The conversation shifts into leadership, with Pete Perrizo noting that leadership isn't tied to title; it's something everyone practices every day, for better or worse.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
In this episode of the Sargent On Track Podcast’s Sargent 100 interview series, Sebastian sits down with George Thomas, whose 40 years of service began in 1972 as a field office clerk and evolved into a career spanning accounting, finance, and leadership. George reflects on the company’s interstate highway years, the first steps into out-of-state work, and the values and work ethic that made Sargent stand out. He also shares his candid perspective on the sale of H.E. Sargent to overseas companies, his “famous phone call” that brought him back to Maine with Sargent & Sargent, and what it took behind the scenes to earn confidence during a pivotal chapter in the company’s story.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
In this episode of the On Track Podcast, President & CEO Eric Ritchie is joined by Assistant Equipment Manager Brandon Mace and Instructors Mike Boyd and Lowell Gardner of Eastern Maine Community College in the Flywheel Studio for a conversation about the heavy equipment program that's been feeding skilled technicians into the industry for decades. The group digs into what makes the two-year program tick, from its AED accreditation and hands-on shop time to the industry advisory board that helps shape the curriculum based on what employers actually need. Mike and Lowell share what separates a good mechanic from a great one, while Brandon talks about the long-standing partnership between Sargent and EMCC, including the recent donation of a 2020 Cat 320 excavator and the interns who've graduated into full-time roles.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
In this episode of the Sargent: On Track Podcast, President & CEO Eric Ritchie is joined by VP of Finance & CFO Tasha Gardner in the Flywheel Studio to wrap up the series, answering questions submitted by employee-owners at the all-employee meetings. In a “lightning-round” format, Eric and Tasha cover the company's strategic planning efforts, including the completion of the first phase of a five-year roadmap focused on building the bench, growing people and capabilities across both regions, and keeping safety woven into everything the company does. The two dig into how New England and the Mid-Atlantic are stronger together, with each region's diversity of skills and geography serving as one of the company's greatest assets. With special guest Board Chair Herb Sargent, the conversation also dives into employee-owner questions about business transparency and the legal reasons certain acquisition details can't be shared. Herb also weighs in on the age-old staffing challenge, shares a piece of company history, and reminds everyone that this company was never built on perfection — just doing what you can, with what you've got, every day.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
In this episode of the On Track Podcast, President & CEO Eric Ritchie is joined by Equipment Manager Tim Richards, Assistant Equipment Manager Brandon Mace, and Mid-Atlantic Assistant Equipment Manager Jeff Marsh in the Flywheel Studio to answer equipment questions submitted by employee-owners at the spring all-employee meetings. The guys cover a lot of ground: how the fleet has grown over the last decade, the rent-versus-own philosophy, why the team is rethinking the hour mark on machine changeovers, and why letting a diesel sit and idle costs you more than just fuel. If you work around equipment or you're just curious about how these decisions get made, it's a good one to have in your ears.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
In this episode of the Sargent: On Track Podcast, President & CEO Eric Ritchie is joined by Vice President of Operations & COO – North Douglas Morrison, Vice President of Operations & COO – South Justin Porter, and Safety Director Cam Haggar in the Flywheel Studio to cover project wins, upcoming work, and safety — topics drawn directly from questions submitted at the all-employee meetings. Doug and Justin walk through active and upcoming jobs across New England and the Mid-Atlantic and highlight project wins. The conversation then shifts to safety, with the group discussing accountability at every level, proper incident reporting, first aid requirements in the pits, real-world "Take 5" examples from job sites in both regions, and the importance of mental health and clear-headedness on site.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
In this episode of the On Track Podcast, we continue our series answering questions submitted during the all-employee meetings with Pete Perizo, Workforce Advancement Manager; Vice President of Human Resources, Amanda Martin; Chief Operating Officer - North and Vice President of New England Operations Doug Morrison; and Chief Operating Officer - South and Vice President of Mid-Atlantic Operations Justin Porter. The group covers a wide range of topics, including how to better yourself in your daily role, what career advancement really looks like at Sargent, how the Construction Academy works and who it's for, cross-training opportunities in the field, and what it takes to earn trust and move up in the company. The conversation also shifts to benefits and compensation, touching on how Sargent uses the Employment Cost Index rather than a standard COLA adjustment, what's being evaluated in this year's benefits review, how the high-deductible health plan and HSA work together, the boot reimbursement program, and how profit sharing is calculated and paid out.
Workforce Advancement contact information:
Pete’s Work Phone – (207) 817-7558
Email – wfa@sargent.us
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
In this episode of the Sargent: On Track Podcast, President & CEO Eric Ritchie is joined by Vice President of Finance and CFO Tasha Gardner in the Flywheel Studio to kick off a new series answering questions submitted during the all-employee meetings. Tasha breaks down vesting and what it means to be a true employee-owner, walks through how shares get allocated between hourly and salaried employees, and explains how internship years factor into vesting. The conversation also digs into retirement planning, tax implications of the ESOP and 401k, and the difference between Roth and traditional contributions at different stages of a career. Eric and Tasha close with a reminder that knowing the ESOP inside and out is part of being an employee owner, and that it takes all 600-plus employee-owners to keep the culture going.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
In this episode of the On Track Podcast, VP of HR Amanda Martin is joined by Superintendent Keith Edgecomb, Controller Casey Flynn, Project Manager Ryan Cullen, Project Executive Kody Vining, HR Manager Claire Ryder, Foreman Alex Castedio, Foreman Kyle Salley, Project Executive Seth Watts, WellBuilt facilitator Matt Verderamo, and Laura Pfeiffenberger and Chris Whitney from Spinnaker Trust in the Flywheel Studio on graduation day of the Sargent Leadership Academy. The group walks through what the program actually looks like, from DISC profiles and emotional intelligence to planning for hard conversations, learning the inside workings of finance, HR, estimating, and workforce advancement, and getting an outside look at corporate governance and the ESOP. Participants share how the academy shifted the way they think about leadership, why role-playing turned out to be more useful than they expected, and how a class of employee-owners from different departments and regions grew tight-knit along the way.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
In this episode of the On Track Podcast, President & CEO Eric Ritchie is joined by CFO Tasha Gardner and VP of Human Resources Amanda Martin in the Flywheel Studio to break down ESOP distributions during Sargent ESOP Month. The team walks through the four main distribution groups, in-service employees, terminated participants, retirees, and beneficiaries in cases of death or disability, and explains the rules tied to each one, including statutory diversification at age 55 with 10 years in the plan, lump sum options at age 61, and the differences for employees hired before and after January 1, 2023. They also cover the upcoming election window running from May 26th through June 26th, the importance of keeping beneficiaries up to date, what happens when retirees come back to work, and why calling a tax professional and the team here at Sargent matters before making any decisions. Eric, Tasha, and Amanda also share a good reminder from Herb that everyone should retire with a surplus of dignity, and that the share price keeps climbing because of the hard work every employee owner puts in day in and day out. Give it a listen and save it for later, this one is worth keeping on the shelf.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
In this episode of the On Track Podcast, President & CEO Eric Ritchie is joined by Mid-Atlantic Business Development Manager Mike Mullins and Brinkman Constructors Senior Vice President of Corporate Operations and Regional Offices Ted Hoog in the Flywheel Studio for a conversation about employee-ownership, company culture, and what it takes to carry a strong construction company forward. Ted shares Brinkman’s ESOP journey, how founder Bob Brinkman used employee-ownership as a way to protect the company’s legacy, and how the company has grown while working to keep its core values intact across multiple regions.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
In this episode of the On Track Podcast, we catch up with employee-owners at Sargent’s Northern Maine and Southern Maine all-employee meetings to hear what keeps them moving, what they’re taking into the busy season, and what it means to be part of Sargent during its 100th year. From newer team members finding their place, to long-time employee-owners reflecting on safety, career growth, and the value of getting everyone together, the conversations give a good look at the people behind the work.
The episode also kicks off Sargent ESOP Month with CFO & VP Finance Tasha Gardner and CEO & President Eric Ritchie joining in for the Price-Is-Right and a quick lesson on how the ESOP works, with a reminder that employee ownership is built through the work everyone does each day.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
In this episode of the On Track Podcast, Vice President-Human Resources Amanda Martin is joined by HealthJoy representatives Lindsay Nelson and Stephanie Young, Cross Insurance representative Gabe Marchese, and HR Generalist Jennifer Snow in the Flywheel Studio to talk about how the HealthJoy app can help Sargent employee-owners and their families better understand and use their healthcare benefits. The conversation covers how the app can help users find in-network care, make appointments, review medical bills, set health goals, and get support when healthcare questions come up, whether they are at home, on the road, or helping a family member from a distance. It is a practical episode with straightforward examples, and it is worth a listen for anyone who wants to make healthcare and benefits a little easier to manage.
Get started with HealthJoy so it is ready when you need it. If you have a work email, watch for a Launch Day email to activate your account. If not, you can still sign up by downloading the app, entering the email tied to your benefits, and verifying your identity with a few extra details if needed. From there, add your preferred email and phone number, create a password, and you are set. To activate your account, visit www.healthjoy.com/download or search for HealthJoy in the App Store or Google Play Store.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
In this episode of the On Track Podcast, President & CEO Eric Ritchie is joined by Workforce Advancement Director Kevin Gordon, Vice President of Human Resources Amanda Martin, and Vice President of Finance & CFO Tasha Gardner in the Flywheel Studio to reflect on Sargent’s 100th anniversary celebration, share project award updates, and spend meaningful time on the introduction of the new Herbert E. Sargent Founder’s Award. The conversation centers on Kevin being named the inaugural recipient and explores why the award was created, what it represents, and how Sargent’s Core Purpose and Values continue to shape the way the company invests in people.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
In this episode of the Sargent On Track Podcast’s Sargent 100 interview series, Sebastian sits down with Patrick Findlen, a longtime employee who joined Sargent in 1986 after returning to geology and stayed with the company through 2016. Pat shares how he helped Estimating by locating and permitting gravel, borrow, clay, and other material sources, and how that work later led him into a field-focused safety role supporting crews in both New England and the Mid-Atlantic. Along the way, he reflects on the leadership and values that shaped the company across different eras, including the importance of keeping your word, treating people fairly, and holding the line on safety.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
In this episode of the On Track Podcast, Marketing & Communications Lead Sebastian Bennage is joined by Project Engineer Carter Patterson, Northern Maine Safety and DOT Compliance Specialist Adam Smith, and Division Vice President at Well Built Matt Verderamo in the Flywheel Studio for an on-the-fly conversation recorded during the Sargent Leadership Academy. The group talks through what the Academy is, why it matters, and what participants are taking back to their crews and teams.
The Well Built Podcast: https://www.wellbuiltconsulting.com/thewellbuiltpodcast
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
In this episode of the On Track Podcast, President & CEO Eric Ritchie is joined by Workforce Advancement Manager Pete Parizo and Construction Technology Manager (Guru) Jeff Costello in the Flywheel Studio to talk about why training matters at Sargent and why it needs to be seen as more than just a winter program. The conversation looks at how training supports the transfer of knowledge from experienced employee-owners to the next generation, builds ownership and decision-making in the field, and helps crews use technology like GPS and simulators as tools, not crutches. Eric, Pete, and Jeff make the case that real training is not just about checking a box or learning a system, but about improving judgment, discipline, confidence, and long-term value for both the individual and the company.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
In this episode of the On Track Podcast, Marketing & Communications Lead Sebastian Bennage is at the Mid-Atlantic and Piedmont Triad all-employee meeting gathering thoughts on the day as he catches up with employee-owners from across the region. From a new field mechanic seeing the company’s bigger picture for the first time, to leaders discussing responsible growth, succession planning, and the importance of investing in people, the episode offers a grounded look at what it means to build one team across Virginia and North Carolina.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
In this episode of the On Track Podcast, President & CEO Eric Ritchie is joined by Equipment Manager Tim Richards and Assistant Equipment Managers Jeff Marsh and Brandon Mace in the Flywheel Studio to talk about the people, history, and future of Sargent’s shop and equipment operations. The company’s early adoption of GPS and the lasting legacy of innovation have helped set Sargent apart for generations, and this episode offers a grounded look at one of the company’s true hidden gems.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
In this episode of the Sargent On Track Podcast’s Sargent 100 interview series, Sebastian sits down with Tim Richards, who has spent more than 40 years with Sargent, starting in the Stillwater shop as a mechanic and working his way into leadership as a shop foreman and equipment manager. Tim reflects on what the shop meant to the company when he first walked in, the equipment mindset that shaped the work, and the people and leadership that guided Sargent through changes over the years, leading into the turning point in 2005 and the transition to employee-ownership.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
In this episode of the On Track Podcast, Marketing & Communications Lead Sebastian Bennage is joined by Raymond Couture, Maintenance Foreman, in the Western Maine Conference Room Studio. Ray shares how he got his start as a heavy equipment mechanic, from tinkering as a kid to attending Eastern Maine Technical College, and reflects on 17 years of keeping a growing fleet safe and reliable, from compactors to crushers. The conversation gets into what a strong shop philosophy looks like, why an in-house maintenance team matters for reducing downtime, and how equipment has evolved, especially as electronics, sensors, emissions systems, and diagnostic software have changed the work.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
In this episode of the On Track Podcast, President & CEO Eric Ritchie is joined by Safety Specialist Tony Adams, Safety Manager James Joyner, and Safety Director Cam Haggar in the Flywheel Studio to talk about setting a positive tone for safety in 2026, with a focus on CARE for the well-being of every employee-owner. The group shares how Sargent’s safety training continues to evolve, driven by real jobsite needs. They emphasize that training only works when it is paired with strong field mentorship, and they reinforce a clear message that every employee-owner has stop work authority, no matter their role or tenure.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
In this episode of the Sargent On Track Podcast’s Sargent 100 interview series, Sebastian sits down with Richard “Dick” Martin, who started with H.E. Sargent in 1953 and later served as Vice President of Operations. Dick reflects on getting hired by Herb Sargent, the pace and expectations of early highway and turnpike work, and the values that shaped how the company operated in those years.
A quick note for listeners: Dick had suffered a stroke not long before this interview, and at times, he may be difficult to understand, especially in a loud setting. It’s worth a second listen if you have trouble understanding him the first time.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
In this episode of the Sargent On Track Podcast, President & CEO Eric Ritchie is joined by Controller Casey Flynn and Vice President of Accounting & Administration Carey Sheehan in the Flywheel Studio to share a behind-the-scenes look at the Finance team that keeps Sargent moving. Carey reflects on her transition after 25 years as Controller, Casey discusses her move into the Controller role, and both explain how accounting, cost control, and administration support the field, strengthen compliance, and protect the ESOP through reliable reporting and responsiveness.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
In this episode of the On Track Podcast, Marketing & Communications Lead Sebastian Bennage is joined by Superintendents Adam Tenan and Jake Stevens in the Flywheel Studio to talk through two Maine projects that highlight pre-planning, steady production, and a focus on safety. The conversation dives into Jake’s Lewiston Redundant Water Line, a 13,000-foot transfer line from Lake Auburn built to strengthen Lewiston’s water supply, including tight work zones along the river, stream crossing windows, ledge removal without blasting, and the teamwork it took to deliver the job with zero injuries. Adam then breaks down the Route 1 Millbridge-to-Cherryfield reconstruction, sharing how careful sequencing, breaking the job into sections, and staying ahead of in-water work windows helped keep the project moving and set the crew up for success, while also developing younger leaders along the way.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
In this episode of the On Track Podcast, Marketing & Communications Lead Sebastian Bennage is joined by Southern Maine Regional Manager Matt Thibault, Project Executive Seth Watts, Junior Superintendent Steve Randall, and Senior Foreman Spencer Whittemore in the Flywheel Studio to discuss their tour of the American Cast Iron Pipe Company facility in Birmingham, Alabama, arranged through EJP. They walk through what stood out most, from molten metal moving through the plant to the impressive level of quality control.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
In this episode of the Sargent On Track Podcast, Sebastian sits down with Louie Hebert, who spent 42 years with Sargent. Louie shares what it was like to come in as a laborer during the early interstate years, learn the work in the field, and grow from flagging and pipe crews into foreman and superintendent responsibilities as projects expanded across Maine and beyond. Along the way, Louie reflects on what “the Sargent way” looked like in practice. The conversation closes with what steady work meant for Louie’s family, why teamwork matters, and what he believes will carry Sargent into its next century.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
In this episode of the On Track Podcast, Marketing & Communications Lead Sebastian Bennage visits Project Executive Kody Vining and Project Manager Trent Cullinan at the new Sargent Western Maine office to talk through their recent promotions and what the E.L. Vining & Son transition has looked like from the inside. Cody shares the Vining family legacy in Farmington, the type of civil work the team has built its reputation on (site work, DOT, utilities, and aggregates), and what he hopes stays the same: hard work, quality, and taking on the tougher jobs. Trent reflects on his path at Sargent, the mentors who helped shape his career, and why organization, communication, and keeping the big picture in mind matter in the shift from field leadership to an office role. Together, they dig into what’s gone smoothly, what’s been challenging (especially aligning “order of operations”), what “Winning in the Field” looks like heading into winter and the next season.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
In this episode of the On Track Podcast, President & CEO Eric Ritchie is joined by Herb Sargent, Board Chair, in the Flywheel Studio to look ahead to Sargent’s 100th anniversary. Herb shares what it was like to write the company’s 100th anniversary book, drawing from decades of family journals and company history, and why it mattered to honor the people and lessons that built Sargent, even when you can’t name everyone. Together, they talk about what really endures across a century: a heart in the field, humility, adaptability, and the Core Values that keep the company “on grade” and “on line.” The conversation lands on a simple but powerful theme: the hard work starts today.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
In this episode of the On Track Podcast, President & CEO Eric Ritchie is joined by Tasha Gardner, VP-Finance & CFO, in the Flywheel Studio to wrap up the year with a simple message: Merry Christmas! They reflect on a strong finish to 2025, including board support for the ESOP, welcoming the former E.L. Vining team as Sargent’s Western Maine region, and continued growth in people and work, then look ahead to 2026 with the largest backlog in company history and big momentum heading into Sargent’s 100th anniversary year. The episode closes with a safety reminder, a couple of shout-outs from the field, and a genuine thank-you to employee-owners for the work that made the year possible.
12/OC – 100th Anniversary Party Band:
https://open.spotify.com/artist/6BeyU5SW5d9NiTlzsG2LrU
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
In this episode of the On Track Podcast, President & CEO Eric Ritchie is joined by recent Sargent Construction Academy graduate Isabella Moore in the Flywheel Studio, with Superintendent Troy Harvey and Junior Foreman Jesse Kennedy calling in from the Encompass Health project. The crew had a timely conversation about what mentorship really looks like in the field, especially when the pace is high. They walk through how an intentional “mentoring chain” formed on the job: Troy mentoring Jesse, and Jesse mentoring Isabella. They explain how that support system helped build confidence, competence, and trust.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
In this episode of the On Track Podcast, President & CEO Eric Ritchie is joined by Chief Operating Officers Justin Porter (Mid-Atlantic) and Douglas Morrison (New England) in the Flywheel Studio for a year-end wrap-up of 2025. Eric, Justin, and Doug reflect on how both regions navigated a late start, tough weather, and a busy season to deliver big wins. They dig into what really drove success this year: onboarding and developing great people, investing in Workforce Advancement and safety, mentoring a younger workforce, integrating the E.L. Vining team, and key leadership transitions to keep building the company’s “bench” for the future.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
In this episode of the On Track Podcast, President & CEO Eric Ritchie is joined by Vice President of HR Amanda Martin and HR Generalist Jennifer Snow in the Flywheel Studio for a conversation that both introduces Jen to the Sargent team and leans into what it means to have “healthy holidays.” Eric and Amanda walk through why adding Jen to the HR team is such a big win, how her background in nonprofits and county government prepared her for Sargent, and what she’s noticing about our ESOP culture and the company’s commitment to people. From there, the group gets honest about the stress between Thanksgiving and Christmas. Short days, winter prep, money pressures, being away from home, they share practical, down-to-earth ideas for not overextending yourself, setting boundaries, using resources like the EAP, and simply checking in on each other.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
In this episode of the On Track Podcast, President & CEO Eric Ritchie is joined by Vice President of Finance & CFO Tasha Gardner in the Flywheel Studio for our annual Thanksgiving special, packed with gratitude and good news. Eric and Tasha look back on a standout 2025, celebrating the second-largest profit-sharing bonus in company history, a strong ESOP stock price, the addition of our new E.L. Vining employee-owners, wrapping both the largest and toughest jobs in Sargent history, and heading into 2026 with a record backlog in both the north and the Mid-Atlantic. Tune in for a feel-good, Thanksgiving-week reminder of why it’s special to be a Sargent employee-owner.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
In this episode of the Sargent On Track Podcast, Sebastian sits down with Project Executive Nick Rosswog, Superintendent Andrew Leftridge, and Project Manager Bernard Lupini in the Project Flywheel Job Trailer Studio to talk about Sargent’s work on a 2-million-square-foot LEGO distribution center in Virginia. They dig into what makes Project Flywheel one of the largest, most complex jobs in the Mid-Atlantic, moving 360,000 cubic yards of earth through challenging wetlands and relying on a large team of subcontractors while still hitting aggressive schedule milestones. Along the way, Nick, Andrew, and Bernard share how they got into construction, what it’s been like joining (or rejoining) Sargent, how Andrew’s background in soil cementing has helped the team stay ahead of changing site conditions, and why “living and dying by the schedule” has sharpened their planning, communication, and trust in the crew in the field.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
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Don’t miss this special edition episode of the Sargent On Track Podcast for an opportunity to win double or triple the profit-sharing bonus! Text your guess to the Sargent texting platform by Tuesday, November 18th, at midnight!
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
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In this episode of the On Track Podcast, Vice President of HR Amanda Martin is joined by Benefits Manager Renee Kearns-Pal and the Cross Insurance team in the Flywheel Studio to introduce Sargent’s new benefits partner and spell out how they’ll support employee-owners. They explain who Cross is and when to contact them directly. Give it a listen to learn exactly where to go with benefits questions and how to get the most from your coverage.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
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In this episode of the Sargent On Track Podcast, President & CEO Eric Ritchie is joined by CFO Tasha Gardner, COO–North Doug Morrison, and Northern Regional Manager Tim LePage in the Flywheel Studio to unpack Sargent’s acquisition of E.L. Vining & Son of Farmington, Maine. They break down why it’s a strong cultural fit, how it adds 40 seasoned employee-owners and significant aggregate resources, and what Day-One looks like on the ground. The team also talks succession done right, the months of behind-the-scenes work to close, and what integration through year-end entails. If you want the inside story on the strategy and people behind this milestone, give it a listen.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
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In this episode of the On Track Podcast, President & CEO Eric Ritchie is joined by Tasha Gardner, CFO, in the Flywheel Studio to wrap up National Employee Ownership Month by zeroing in on the everyday ownership mindset that extends far beyond October. Eric and Tasha talk about what it really means to “own it,” showing up with accountability, looking out for your team, and making safe, deliberate choices (you never need permission to do the right thing).
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
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In this episode of the On Track Podcast, President & CEO Eric Ritchie is joined by Chris Horn, Regional Manager of Sargent’s Piedmont Triad Region, for an in-depth check-in on how the region continues to grow and establish itself. Eric and Chris discuss what it takes to build a new region from the ground up, focusing on culture, leadership, and long-term investment in people. Chris shares how the team has expanded from 13 to nearly 50 employees in just two years, the critical role of mentorship and support from Sargent’s broader network, and the importance of “doing the right thing” as they strengthen relationships. The conversation also explores the booming opportunities in North Carolina and how Sargent’s steady, people-first approach is setting the region up for long-term success.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
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In this episode of the On Track Podcast, President & CEO Eric Ritchie is joined by Safety Director Cam Haggar and Mid-Atlantic Safety Manager James Joyner in the Flywheel Studio for a discussion on the importance of slowing down and Taking 5, not just in the field, but in every part of life. Together, they explore how intentionality, communication, planning, and servant leadership form the foundation of Sargent’s safety culture and how those habits help finish the year strong. The team highlights the role of CARE and Take 5 in shaping a company-wide “culture cake,” where safety is baked into every action.If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
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In this episode of the On Track Podcast, President & CEO Eric Ritchie is joined by Workforce Advancement Manager Pete Parizo and Superintendent Rob Wyatt in the Flywheel Studio to talk about what it really means to make new employee-owners feel like they belong at Sargent. Together, they explore the difference between simply welcoming someone and creating a lasting sense of belonging. Rob shares how he builds belonging on his North Carolina job site through engagement, positive reinforcement, and daily focus on Sargent’s Core Values, while Pete discusses how belonging directly ties to leadership, empathy, and employee well-being. The conversation reminds listeners that belonging isn’t just a slogan, it’s an intentional, everyday effort to invest in people.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
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In this episode of the On Track Podcast, we kick off ESOP Month with a conversation between Sebastian and Fortunat Mueller, co-founder & CEO of ReVision Energy, about their journey to 100% employee ownership, why “act like an owner” and curiosity lifts quality and safety, and how ESOPs strengthen culture, recruitment, and resilience through ups and downs.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
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In this episode of the On Track Podcast, VP of Human Resources Amanda Martin dives into the ins and outs of Sargent’s self-funded health insurance plan with expert insights from Lisa Nappi, Sargent’s Senior Account Manager from USI Insurance Services, and Benefits Manager Renee Kearns-Pal. They unpack why Community Health Options is the plan’s TPA, the importance of matching your bills to your Explanation of Benefits, and how to keep out-of-pocket costs down by using resources like virtual visits and in-network providers. They also discuss the benefits of a High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) with an HSA, share tips for choosing between different policies (including a spouse’s plan), and highlight additional services like Firefly for virtual primary care. Whether you’re new to health insurance or just looking to optimize your coverage, this conversation is packed with practical advice to help you navigate your benefits and save money, don’t miss it!
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
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In this episode of the On Track Podcast, the Man in the Corner, Sebastian, hits the field for National Construction Appreciation Week to talk with Sargent employee-owners about what the week means to them. From laborers and superintendents to technology managers and equipment operators, the conversations explore whether the public truly understands the skill, planning, and sacrifice that go into building and maintaining infrastructure. The crew shares candid thoughts on long hours, time away from family, public perceptions, and the joy they take in seeing a job well done.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
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In this episode of the On Track Podcast, Guest host Amanda Martin, Sargent’s VP of HR, has an essential discussion in honor of Construction Suicide Prevention Week. Amanda is joined in the Flywheel Studio by Safety Director Cam Haggar and Heather Washburn, a licensed clinical social worker from Healthy Life EAP, to talk openly about the mental health challenges in the construction industry—an industry with one of the highest suicide rates. Together, they discuss the warning signs to watch for, how to approach someone who may need help, and the free, confidential resources available through Sargent’s Employee Assistance Program.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
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In this episode of the On Track Podcast, we shine a spotlight on Sargent’s 2025 field interns as they wrap up their summer with presentations reflecting on their experiences. Workforce Advancement’s Pete Perazzo, along with interns Lucas Towers and Charlie Vaillancourt, visit the Flywheel Studio to discuss the value of hands-on field work, lessons learned, mentorship, and the unique challenges of construction work. The conversation covers the importance of keeping the internship program authentic, how responsibilities grow year over year, and why building relationships on the job is just as important as learning the technical skills.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
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In this episode of the On Track Podcast, we dive into the story of the Back Cove South CSO Storage Facility project in Portland, Maine—one of the most complex and challenging jobs in Sargent’s history. Host Eric Richie sits down with Business Development Director Glenn Adams and Superintendent Ian McCarthy to reflect on the project’s design-build process, the environmental impact of capturing millions of gallons of polluted stormwater before it reaches Casco Bay, and the technical hurdles of deep excavation, unstable soils, and record-high tides. They share how teamwork, resilience, and creative problem-solving carried the crew through years of demanding work, and how the project not only improved the local ecosystem but also pushed Sargent to grow as a company.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
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In this episode of the On Track Podcast, President & CEO Eric Ritchie is joined by a full Flywheel Studio of guests—including newly retired Herb Sargent, CFO Tasha Gardner, and external board members Thomas Baillie and Keith Bennett—for an in-depth discussion on succession planning and leadership transition at Sargent. The group reflects on Herb’s legacy, the board’s vital role in guiding long-term continuity, and the intentional, people-first approach that has helped position the company for lasting success. Eric shares his gratitude for the mentorship and years of overlap that prepared him for this role, emphasizing that true progress comes from empowering people at every level.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
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In this episode of the On Track Podcast, Safety Director Cameron Hagar joins Sebastian to talk all things Safe + Sound Week. The two kick things off with a round of “Myth or Fact: Safety Edition” before diving into this year’s theme—Preparedness is Your Superpower—and how it ties into Sargent’s commitment to planning, communication, and Taking 5. Cam reflects on the importance of aligning safety, quality, and production through execution, and shares examples, including last year’s milestone of working over a million hours without a lost-time injury.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
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In this episode of the On Track Podcast, Eric Ritchie sits down with Chief Operating Officers Doug Morrison and Justin Porter to recap how the 2025 season is shaping up in both the Northern and Southern regions. From major projects in the Mid-Atlantic to developing new leaders on utility crews in New England, the conversation highlights the growth in both workload and workforce. The COOs reflect on success stories of mentorship, the impact of a growing internship program, and the intentional investment in people that drives Sargent forward. They also emphasize safety, sharing standout observations from the field and encouraging employee-owners to keep watching out for one another.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
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If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
In this episode of the On Track Podcast, Sebastian sits down with newly appointed CEO Eric Ritchie to talk about his first week in the role, his leadership journey, and what excites him about guiding Sargent into its second century. Eric shares insights into his career path, from managing Sargent Materials to stepping into executive leadership roles, and reflects on the company’s unique culture, resilience through challenges like COVID-19, and recent project successes. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about growth, legacy, and the future of Sargent as it approaches its 100th anniversary.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
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In this episode of the On Track Podcast, guest host Business Development Director Glenn Adams sits down with Maine Turnpike Authority Executive Director Andre Briere and Lead Estimator James McCarthy at the Exit 35 & 36 project site in Saco. The group discusses Andre’s unique journey from the Air Force and cybersecurity to public transportation leadership, his vision for the MTA, and why tolling independence is key to Maine’s infrastructure success. The episode also includes a fun lightning round to get to know Andre, insights on future Turnpike projects, shout-outs to standout employee-owners, and a warm welcome to new team members. Tune in to hear why this episode is “Top 5” material.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
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In this episode of the On Track Podcast, President Eric Ritchie sits down with Workforce Advancement Manager Pete Parizo and 2024 SCA graduate Cohen Noble to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Sargent Construction Academy. Eric and Pete discuss how the program has evolved from the early days—housing and busing new hires to a “training field”—to today’s company-wide initiative focused on helping individuals build meaningful careers. Pete shares insight into how meeting people where they’re at has transformed the program’s success, while Cohen offers a firsthand perspective on transitioning from a small town in Maine to the field, living on the road, and finding purpose through the people he works with.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
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In this episode of the On Track Podcast, President Eric Ritchie sits down with Northern Maine Regional Manager Tim LePage and Superintendent Scott Blanchard to reflect on the completion of the largest project in Sargent’s history—the I-395/Route 9 Connector. The team revisits some of the early challenges and predictions they made in 2023, including handling wick drains, ultra-lightweight fill, and complex site logistics in the Felts Brook area.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
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In this episode of the On Track Podcast, Amanda Martin, VP of Human Resources, introduces the growing HR team at Sargent—including new team members from Maine and North Carolina. Listeners get to know Claire, Renee, Harry, Alexis, and Justin as they share their backgrounds, hobbies, and how they support Sargent’s employee-owners. The team also highlights Sargent’s recent growth, military-friendly designation, and who to contact for specific HR needs. With some laughs, shout-outs, and even a few outtakes, this episode is a reminder that behind the scenes, Sargent’s HR team is here to help!
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
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If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
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In this episode of the On Track Podcast, we shine a spotlight on the growing community of women field leaders at Sargent. Sebastian has a conversation with current and future leaders—including Meredith Brewer, Elizabeth Drelich, Jessie Kennedy, Charli Vaillancourt, and retired Superintendent Katrina Morgan—about their experiences in the field, the importance of support, and the launch of a new internal group dedicated to mentoring and connecting women in construction.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
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In this episode of the Sargent On Track Podcast, host Business Development Director Glenn Adams sits down with leaders from N.S. Giles—Maine’s largest concrete contractor—to talk about their journey from humble beginnings to major project partners on jobs like the Back Cove South Storage Facility. They discuss the company’s growth, recent acquisitions, commitment to safety, and innovations in tilt-up construction. The conversation highlights the deep partnership between Sargent and N.S. Giles, shared values around safety and mutual respect between field leaders.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
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In this Sargent On Track Podcast episode, host Sebastian and HR Specialist Justin Embry welcome Bruce Watson, Director of Career and Technical Education at Goochland County Public Schools. Bruce shares the story behind Goochland’s successful Heavy Equipment Operator Program, launched in 2014, designed to prepare high school students for immediate, high-paying careers in the construction industry. Bruce and Justin discuss the importance of partnerships between schools and businesses like Sargent, highlighting the crucial role of hands-on experience, equipment donations, and mentorship in developing skilled operators.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
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In this episode of the On Track Podcast, President Eric Ritchie is joined by CEO Herb Sargent and CFO Tasha Gardner to celebrate the conclusion of Sargent's ESOP month. The trio reflects on the significance of employee ownership, highlighting the company's remarkable ESOP growth and the direct benefits experienced by employee-owners, from stock price increases to vesting milestones. They emphasize the essential role each team member plays in building and sustaining value, fostering succession, and ensuring a prosperous future for everyone involved. With practical insights, heartfelt stories, and recognition for the collective efforts behind this success, this episode underscores the powerful impact of shared ownership and how it shapes both individual careers and Sargent's enduring legacy.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
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If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
In this episode of the On Track Podcast, President Eric Ritchie welcomes CFO Marcie Martelle and COO Brian Emmons from fellow Maine‑based ESOP T Buck Construction for a behind‑the‑scenes chat about what it really takes to build—and sustain—an employee‑owned company. From the legacy of founder Terry Buck and T Buck’s 2020 transition to 100% employee ownership to the day‑to‑day challenges of educating crews, growing valuations, and planning leadership succession, the conversation is packed with practical lessons and honest reflections that mirror Sargent’s own 12‑year ESOP journey.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
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If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
In this episode of the On Track Podcast, President & COO Eric Ritchie sits down with Vice President of HR Amanda Martin, Northern Maine Regional Manager Tim LePage, and Vice President of Accounting & Administration Carey Sheehan to unpack the brand‑new Sargent Leadership Academy—an in‑house, 12‑day program designed to give current and emerging leaders the hard and soft skills they’ll need to help steer the company’s growth. The group shares how a field‑born idea from Project Engineer Joe Frazier grew into a curriculum co‑taught by Sargent leaders and partner firm WellBuilt, covering everything from estimating drills and time‑management hacks to Finance 101 and ESOP fundamentals. Along the way, they reflect on the power of mutual understanding across departments, the importance of succession planning, and the value of “Investing in People.”
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
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If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
In this episode of the On Track Podcast, President Eric Ritchie sits down with CEO Herb Sargent and newly promoted Vice Presidents/Chief Operating Officers Doug Morrison (North) and Justin Porter (South) to reveal the company’s new dual‑COO structure, explain how it supports Sargent’s succession plan, and share what “responsible growth” looks like in both New England and the Mid‑Atlantic. The conversation traces Doug’s and Justin’s 20-plus-year journeys from “glorified laborers” to regional leaders, unpacks why the move strengthens local decision‑making and keeps the ESOP culture front‑and‑center, and offers an inside look at future expansion opportunities. You’ll also hear ESOP‑Month excitement: the latest Price-Is-Right question on the Profit Sharing True-Up Bonus!
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
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If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
In this episode of the On Track Podcast, President & COO Eric Ritchie sits down with Assistant Equipment Manager Brandon Mace to explore why “taking CARE” of Sargent’s iron is just as critical to success as taking care of its people. They unpack data on how trimming idle time is already saving the company hundreds of thousands of dollars (and adding real ESOP value), walk through simple daily inspections that prevent costly breakdowns and injuries, and celebrate the donation of a late-model excavator to Eastern Maine Community College’s Diesel Tech program. Eric and Brandon also look ahead at fleet technology—from AI diagnostics to the coming wave of electrification—before Eric, Herb, and Tasha fire up Price-Is-Right ESOP trivia!
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
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If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
In this episode of the On Track Podcast, President & COO Eric Ritchie welcomes ESOP retirees Chip Laite and Dennis Bernard for a conversation about their far-flung careers—from Aroostook County, Maine, to Mid-Atlantic landfills—the mentors who shaped them, and how employee-ownership has boosted their post-Sargent lives. Along the way, Eric, CEO Herb Sargent, and VP-Finance & CFO Tasha swap stock-price reveal reactions, and Tasha tees up more Sargent ESOP Month contests!
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
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In this episode of the On Track Podcast, President & COO Eric Ritchie welcomes newly appointed Small Tools Manager Matt Chambers to the Flywheel Studio to talk about one of Sargent’s “hidden gems” — the Small Tools Department and how he’s preparing to succeed 45-year veteran Bobby Leland.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
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In this episode of the On Track Podcast, Marketing & Communications Coordinator Sebastian Bennage attends the last set of New England all-employee meetings and interviews foremen, mechanics, shop veterans, new hires, and CEO Herb Sargent to talk about camaraderie, safety first, and the excitement of seeing this year’s ESOP stock‑price jump. From decades-long employee‑owners reflecting on how far the company (and their retirement accounts) have come to brand‑new teammates admiring the family atmosphere, everyone is on the same page by sticking to the basics and planning a strong start to the year.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
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In this episode of the On Track Podcast, Marketing & Communications Coordinator Sebastian Bennage takes us inside the New England all-employee meetings in Maine—one in South Portland and one in Orono—and interviews range from new hires to seasoned operators, all sharing what keeps them coming back year after year—camaraderie, opportunities to learn, and seeing their hard work pay off. Many credit Sargent’s supportive culture and “Take 5” safety approach as keys to personal, professional, and safety growth. Whether it’s a 19-year-old laborer just getting started or a 20-plus-year veteran who’s seen the organization evolve, each testifies to the excitement of being an employee-owner!
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
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If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
In this episode of the On Track Podcast, host Eric Ritchie teams up with a group of graduates from the Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) Young Professionals program to discuss how it has shaped their leadership journeys. They highlight the importance of honing “soft skills” like communication, relationship-building, and mentorship—especially when working with seasoned veterans in demanding environments.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
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If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
In this episode of the On Track Podcast, host Eric Ritchie sits down with Workforce Development Manager Pete Parizo and seasoned Operator Ken Thurlow to discuss our winter training programs and share how the team is preparing our crews for another busy construction season. They discuss the importance of hands-on training in real-world conditions and explain how the company’s “ownership” theme drives everything from housekeeping to mentoring new hires.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
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If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
In this episode of the On Track Podcast, Marketing & Communications Coordinator Sebastian Bennage takes us inside Sargent’s recent all-employee meetings in the Mid-Atlantic Region, held separately in Virginia and North Carolina for the first time—a testament to the region’s growth. Sebastian interviews a mix of new hires and longtime employees, capturing their experiences, career journeys, and the camaraderie that makes Sargent unique. From operators with decades of experience to those just starting out, each story highlights the dedication and teamwork that drive the company forward.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
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If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
In this episode of the On Track Podcast, Eric sits down with Equipment Manager Tim Richards and Assistant Equipment Manager Brandon Mace for an inside look at the latest updates in our shop and equipment operations. From year-round maintenance strategies and major shop improvements to the role of our fabrication team in supporting projects, Tim and Brandon share how their team is keeping Sargent running smoothly behind the scenes. They also discuss their transition process as Brandon prepares to step into Tim’s role, ensuring a seamless shift that keeps our equipment fleet in good shape.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
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If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
In this episode of the On Track podcast, Host Eric Ritchie talks with four women at Sargent—ranging from newly promoted VP Accounting & Administration Carey Sheehan to a long-time Shop Administrator Sheila Smith, Junior Foreman Elizabeth Drelich, and an Off-Road Truck Driver Brittany Kraus— who share their stories of building rewarding careers in a traditionally male-dominated industry. They discuss their challenges, the support they’ve received, and the pride they take in making a tangible impact through construction.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
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If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
Host Eric Ritchie is joined by Safety Director Cam Haggar, Safety Manager Adam Pollock, and Safety Specialist James Joyner to discuss how our commitment to safety is maintained through the CARE initiative (Committed, Accountable, Responsible, Empowered) and the Take 5 mindset. They discuss the importance of proactive safety measures, planning, and preventing incidents before they happen while ensuring that productivity and profitability go hand in hand with safety.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
In this episode of the On Track Podcast, we catch up with the team behind a unique box culvert replacement in Meredith, New Hampshire—a job that packed challenges into a short time frame. Regional Manager Sean Milligan, Junior Superintendent John Koch Jr., and Senior Foreman Chris Lee share how they navigated tight scheduling, high-tension overhead power lines, and a high-visibility location, all while mentoring young crew members and forging valuable community partnerships. This conversation highlights resourcefulness and building strong relationships, from reusing historic stones to collaborating with local companies and a neighboring farm, who surprised them with a thank-you barbeque.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
In this final installment of the Sargent Flywheel miniseries, the team focuses on the sixth and final cog: Celebrate & Promoting the Wins. President & COO Eric Ritchie, Business Development Director Glenn Adams, Estimating/Marketing Coordinator Lea Howe, and Marketing/Communications Coordinator Sebastian Bennage dive into how recognizing successes—both big and small—keeps the momentum of employee engagement and company culture strong. Glenn explains how showcasing accomplishments reinforces Sargent’s reputation and attracts new work, while Lea and Sebastian highlight the value of connecting employees across regions through social media and newsletters. They emphasize that celebrating people isn’t about bragging—it’s about fostering belonging and feeling proud to participate in meaningful work.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
In this episode of the Sargent On Track podcast, President and COO Eric Ritchie, along with guests General Superintendent Ricky Powell, Superintendent Adam Tienen, and Excavator Operator Darrick Trueworthy delve into the fifth cog of Sargent’s Flywheel—“Execute & Win in the Field.” The crew shares real-world experiences on how thoughtful planning, clear communication, and teamwork drive project results, boost company reputation, and benefit all employee-owners. They explore the importance of value engineering, hitting (or beating) demanding schedules and ensuring safety and production without cutting corners. The conversation is full of practical insights, from managing rain days to fostering collaboration across crews.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
The Sargent Flywheel continues to spin as we discuss the fourth cog—Invest in Equipment & Technologies. President and COO Eric Ritchie, Cost Control Manager Casey Noyes, Assistant Equipment Manager Brandon Mace, and Construction Technology Manager Jeff Costello discuss how leveraging the right tools, software, and partnerships is essential for boosting efficiency and streamlining processes, both on projects and in the office. You’ll hear how they balance trying out cutting-edge ideas with making the most of established systems—always with an eye on evolving or adapting when needed.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
In this episode of the On Track Podcast, the team dives into the fourth cog of the Sargent Flywheel—Acquire Projects—and reveals just how vital it is for keeping the company moving forward. President and COO Eric Ritchie welcomes guests Chief Estimator Pat Dubay, Lead Estimator James McCarthy, and Mid-Atlantic Lead Estimator Aaron Tidd. Together, they discuss the balancing act of selecting the right projects—whether through complex bids or private negotiations—and the importance of strong field performance for building lasting relationships. Don’t miss learning how it fits together and why “Acquire Projects” is an essential cog of Sargent’s continued growth.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
In this third installment of the Flywheel Miniseries, President and COO Eric Ritchie, VP of Operations, New England Doug Morrison, and VP of Operations, Mid-Atlantic Justin Porter dive into how Sargent stays agile and adapts to ever-shifting market realities. The crew highlights the importance of solid backlogs and strong relationships and underscores how ongoing training and mentorship prepare their workforce for anything.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
Diving directly into the second installment of the Flywheel Miniseries, focusing on the critical topic of "Invest in People." President & COO Eric Ritchie is joined by long-time Sargent leaders Pete Parizo and Kevin Gordon from the Workforce Advancement Team in the Flywheel Studio to explore what it means to take a complete approach to employee development—not just through job-specific training but by supporting the whole person with mentorship, life skills, and financial literacy. Kevin shares a personal story of resilience and the importance of making oneself valuable, while Pete emphasizes how mentorship strengthens company culture and contributes to long-term success.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
In this episode kicking off Season 6 of the Sargent On Track Podcast, President & COO Eric Ritchie, VP-Finance & CFO Tasha Gardner, and VP of Operations, New England Doug Morrison discuss the concept of the “Sargent Flywheel,” a framework that guides the company’s momentum by focusing on six core cogs: Invest in People, Adapt to Market Realities, Acquire Projects, Investing in Equipment & Technologies, Execute & Win in the Field, and Celebrate & Promote the Wins. Above all, they emphasize that the Flywheel isn’t just a poster on the wall—it pushed Sargent forward to achieve success together, year after year.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
In this special Christmas Eve edition of the On Track podcast, Eric Ritchie, Herb Sargent, and Tasha Gardner reflect on an extraordinary 2024 for Sargent. They celebrate major project wins, highlight safety milestones like surpassing 1,000,000 man-hours without a lost-time injury, and discuss leadership transitions and record-breaking financial achievements. With 29 shout-out submissions to fellow employee-owners and a focus on sustainability and growth, this episode wraps up the year with gratitude and excitement for 2025.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
In this episode of the Sargent On Track Podcast, President & COO Eric Ritchie and VP of HR Amanda Martin introduce listeners to Sargent’s new and improved wellness program, rolling out January 1st on the WellRight platform. They’re joined by Sargent’s Wellness Program Coordinator, Lindsey Fiedler, who details a range of resources—from personal health coaching and educational courses to digital tools for tracking your progress and the opportunity to earn a $250 incentive by completing three simple activities, including finding a primary care physician. Throughout the discussion, they emphasize well-being during what can be a stressful time of year, including psychological health and the importance of year-end reflection.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
This episode offers an inside look at Sargent’s asphalt and aggregate operations as the team revisits the past year’s triumphs, lessons, and forward-looking plans. General Manager Asphalt & Aggregates Joshua Shaw, Asphalt Plant Manager Ed Barnes, and Aggregate Plant Manager Chris Curtis discuss their 2024 season. The crew shares how new equipment like an overland conveyor and silo additions have boosted efficiency and reduced costs. The conversation highlights the vital interplay between asphalt and aggregates, the importance of supporting Sargent projects across Maine, and the crew’s work ethic.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
President & COO Eric Ritchie is joined by VP of New England Operations Doug Morrison and VP of Mid-Atlantic Operations Justin Porter in the Flywheel Studio. They bring unique insights into future Sargent work and how things went in 2024. Lessons learned and celebrations permeate this episode; don’t miss it!
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
Herb, Eric, and Tasha share thankfulness for such a great and safe year. There is much to be thankful for all employee-owners between successful projects and an improved safety record! The crew also shares a collection of shout-outs from the field – showcasing all the thankfulness throughout the company!
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
The Workforce Advancement Team takes over the Flywheel Studio to discuss everything they have been working on over the course of 2024. Training, recruitment, mentorship, and a massive improvement in their efforts in the Mid-Atlantic and Piedmont Triad regions! Workforce Advancement Director Kevin Gordon, Workforce Development Manager Pete Parizo, Workforce Advancement Trainer Kendall Bickford, and Workforce Development Trainer Tim Powell break it all down in this episode of the On-Track Podcast. And don’t miss a special edition of the Price-Is-Right, where the winner and the profit-sharing bonus is revealed!
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
Senior Foreman Jon Green, Human Resources Specialist Justin Embrey, and PCA Cody Collins visit the Flywheel Studio to discuss money management tools' impact on their financial lives. Specifically, Ramsey SmartDollar, a benefit Sargent offers to all employee-owners. Each shares how useful it’s been to help them keep track of their spending and their personal development of self-discipline – leading to financial freedom. President & COO Eric Ritchie and CFO & VP-Finanace Tasha Gardner also jump into the Flywheel Studio to ask a special edition Price-Is-Right question about the profit-sharing bonus! Don’t miss out on the chance to win DOUBLE the profit-sharing bonus, or if you get it to the penny, you’ll win TRIPLE!
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
VP of HR Amanda Martin joins us in the Flywheel Studio to talk about important changes and additions to Sargent 2025 benefits. Chris Libby to talk about the new Employee Assistance Program – goodbye automated prompts! Afterward, Amanda has a conversation with Lisa Nappi, a Benefits Account Manager at USI, she helps us with all of our benefits carriers. Lisa’s job is to ensure that every employee-owner has what they need regarding benefits. Benefits may not be the most exciting topic, but it is essential information.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
President & COO Eric Ritchie and Vice President-Finance & CFO Tasha Gardner wrap up all National Employee Ownership Month celebrations and discuss how great of a year Sargent is having. There is a lot to celebrate being an employee-owner at Sargent! They also announce our last winner of Price-Is-Right AND who won $500 from the ESOP Photo Contest!
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
Herb sits down with Glenn Adams, Sargent’s Director of Business Development, and Mark Adams, President, CEO, and Board Chair of Sebago Technics, another 100% employee-owned company. Sebago Technics specializes in site design and permitting services, guiding projects from initial conditions and design through permitting and construction. The conversation delves into the advantages of employee ownership, offering insights into how Sebago Technics’ ESOP model compares and contrasts with Sargent’s own employee ownership structure.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
President & COO Eric Ritchie and Vice President-Finance & CFO Tasha Gardner sit down in the Flywheel Studio with two gentlemen from Sargent’s ESOP valuation firm, Chartwell. Tim Lang and Sam Newcomb delve into the crucial topic of how Sargent employee-owners can directly affect the ESOP valuation. This is invaluable information for those who are invested in seeing the ESOP stock price rise at Sargent!
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
President and COO Eric Ritchie is joined by Heavy Equipment Operator Brian Loiselle and Survey Foreman Josh Taylor in the Flywheel Studio to talk about their careers and what employee ownership means to them. Brain has worked at Sargent for over 30 years and Josh for almost 20 years. These two have had great careers and have plenty of wisdom to pass on, so don’t miss out!
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
This episode takes you to the Southern Maine Regional Party, where employee-owners gathered to celebrate significant milestones and the great year Sargent is having. Don’t forget to stick around for the second Price-Is-Right question! Winners will be announced next week!
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
CEO Herb Sargent, President and COO Eric Ritchie, and Mid-Atlantic VP of Operations Justin Porter sit down in the Flywheel Studio to discuss why this significant milestone is critical to share within and outside Sargent. If you’ve ever been curious about how the region has developed to where it is now, don’t miss this episode!
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
President and COO Eric Ritchie is joined by Superintendents Keith Edgecomb and Jon Nadeau and Northern Maine Project Executive Brent Williams in the Flywheel Studio to discuss how their project went in Oakfield, Maine. The project had a tight window for a lot of work, and the guys fill us in on how they made it happen. Don’t miss this one!
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
Superintendent Peter Broberg, Southern Maine Regional Manager Matt Thibault, and Business Development Director Glenn Adams radio into the Flywheel Studio to discuss how they’ve been planning for an upcoming project. Crews will tackle a 2.1-million-gallon storage tank for the Lewiston-Auburn Clean Water Authority to prevent untreated wastewater from entering the Androscoggin River. Also, don’t miss out on some exciting announcements!
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
CFO Tasha Gardner and Small Tools Manager Bobby Leland visit the Flywheel Studio to discuss his 46-year journey at Sargent, saving for medical expenses and retirement. Like many, Bobby started his career at Sargent as a young man, not thinking too much about how he would pay for future medical expenses, let alone retirement. However, as the years went on, he realized the importance of early planning for retirement. He is now an active proponent of contributing to the Sargent 401k and the HSA, as he believes that if you don’t contribute, “you’re just losing money.”
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
Senior Project Executive Travis Ridky and Superintendents Dustin Linders and Dale Louk call into the Flywheel Studio to discuss how the Sargent Core Purpose and Values are being lived out on their projects. There is a lot of mentorship going on in the region! Also, don’t miss three important announcements!
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
Herb is joined in the Flywheel Studio by Trudi Plummer, Director of Education at the Maine Discovery Museum, and two Girls in Construction Camp campers, Lila and Amelia. They discuss the practical application of what they learned from the Sargent visit, emphasizing how understanding construction, working in teams, and showing kindness will be beneficial in their future endeavors.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
The entire Sargent Safety Team visits the Flywheel Studio to discuss the importance of slowing down, assessing, and accomplishing tasks safely. Why are events like Safe & Sound Week important, and how do we balance production, quality, and safety? Answers to those questions and more on this episode, so don’t miss out!
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
Superintendents Jake Stevens, Keith Edgecomb, and Northern Maine Project Executive Brent Williams visit the Flywheel Studio remotely to discuss the challenges and biggest wins on their most recent projects. How do they deal with complex projects, and what can we learn from their experiences? Answers to those questions and more are on this episode of the On-Track Podcast!
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
Workforce Development Manager Pete Parizo is joined by Sargent Interns Jessie Kennedy and Lucas Towers in the Flywheel Studio to follow up on an episode they were on earlier this year! Back in May, they looked forward to getting the most out of their summer as interns. Pete is here to ask them if they accomplished that goal. This is a great episode celebrating mentorship—don’t miss out!
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
President and COO Eric Ritchie is joined virtually in the Flywheel Studio by Mid-Atlantic Vice President of Operations Justin Porter, Piedmont Triad Regional Manager Chris Horn, and Project Manager Erick Torres to discuss how the office in Greensboro, NC, has grown since the beginning of the year. Erick Torres also discusses joining the Sargent team and his time in construction and military service.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
Workforce Development Manager Pete Parizo is joined by a group of people who started their careers in the Sargent Construction Academy – new and old. Foreman Alex Morgan, class of ‘16, Heavy Equipment Operator Chandler Plante, class of ‘19, and Laborer Nikalis Schrader, class of ’24, talk with Pete about their experience going through the academy and how it set them up for success. The fruits of the Workforce Advancement Team’s labors are on full display during this episode!
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
Southern Maine Regional Manager Matt Thibault, Superintendent Ian McCarthy, and Superintendent James McCarthy join Herb in the Digital Flywheel Studio to discuss the Back Cove South Project in Portland, ME, and the MTA Exits 35 & 36 in Saco, ME. The brothers share about the challenges they’ve faced on these projects and how they’ve overcome them. Herb also provides a lesson on remembering to Take 5 before making decisions to circumvent easily avoidable mistakes.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
Equipment Manager Tim Richards, Weld Shop Foreman Irv McInnis, Shop Foreman Eric Gifford, and Field Maintenance Foreman Ryan Kennedy visit the Flywheel Studio to discuss a change in how the Maintenance Shop handles yearly equipment maintenance and the many projects going on at the Welding Shop. As always, the crew reads some great shout-outs and welcomes a new group of employee-owners to Sargent!
Ryan Kennedy honored in Construction Equipment magazine's "Under 40 in Construction Equipment Awards!”:
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/q3Pf2gnXvrVvaAeo/
Here’s a link to this issue of the magazine: https://www.constructionequipment.com/magazine/76156
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
President & COO Eric Ritchie is joined by CEO Herb Sargent, New England VP of Operations Doug Morrison, and Mid-Atlantic VP of Operations Justin Porter in the Flywheel Studio to discuss how the year is going so far. They delve into some valuable lessons learned, equipping you with insights for the future and a few of our biggest wins. If you need encouragement to continue the year strong, this episode is a great resource!
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
President Eric Ritchie invites CEO Herb Sargent, Safety Director Cam Haggar, Superintendent Jake Stevens, and Senior Foreman Steve Randall to the Flywheel Studio to discuss Trench Safety Week and their experiences with pipe work. The crew discusses the importance of having a week dedicated to recognizing and mitigating the hazards of working in or around a trench. Jake and Steve share wisdom you won’t want to miss out on!
Message from Benefits Administrator Jessica Ashe:
As we approach the mid-year point, we would like to remind you of the wellness benefit available to you. Each eligible participant can receive a $250 wellness benefit payable in November, and both you and your spouse are eligible to participate.
To qualify for this benefit, you need to complete the following steps:
- Log into Prevention Cloud through the app or the web.
- Get your yearly physical and upload a copy to your health profile.
- Complete your health risk assessment.
- Participate in at least one wellness challenge.
We currently have an active Hydration Challenge, and we encourage you to join! We have 54 employee-owners and spouses participating so far, and together we've consumed 384 gallons of water! Participation in this challenge enters you for a chance to win one of 5 Sargent Yeti tumblers!
If you are unsure how to log into Prevention Cloud, please reach out to our Benefits Administrator, Jessica Ashe, for assistance.
Stay healthy and hydrated!
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
Herb is joined by Workforce Advancement Director Kevin Gordon and Workforce Development Manager Pete Parizo in the Flywheel Studio to discuss their recent training and recruitment efforts! Between two classes of the Sargent Construction Academy, dozens of career fairs, and winter trainings, they have been busy!
Applications for the Sargent Scholarship are open!
This scholarship, unique in its eligibility criteria, is exclusively available to spouses and children of full-time employees. It is open to deserving graduate or undergraduate students attending any educational institution, including community colleges and trade schools (except the University of Maine at Orono).
Application Page
(Scroll down to near the bottom of the page, and please click the red "Apply Now" button to apply for the Sargent Scholarship.)
The deadline for application submissions is June 15th.
It's important to note that this scholarship is distinct from the Herbert E. Sargent Scholarship. That provides scholarship assistance to undergraduate or graduate students with either a financial need or a high academic standing at the University of Maine in Orono. The Herbert E. Sargent Scholarship is decided on and awarded by a panel at the University of Maine.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
Herb, Eric and Tasha share their thoughts about all the happenings during Sargent ESOP month and why it’s a great time to be an employee-owner at Sargent. Price-Is-Right may be done for now, but we have one more set of field interviews at the end of this episode, so don’t miss out!
Applications for the Sargent Scholarship are open!
This scholarship, unique in its eligibility criteria, is exclusively available to spouses and children of full-time employees. It is open to deserving graduate or undergraduate students attending any educational institution, including community colleges and trade schools (except the University of Maine at Orono).
Application Page
(Scroll down to near the bottom of the page, and please click the red "Apply Now" button to apply for the Sargent Scholarship.)
The deadline for application submissions is June 15th.
It's important to note that this scholarship is distinct from the Herbert E. Sargent Scholarship. That provides scholarship assistance to undergraduate or graduate students with either a financial need or a high academic standing at the University of Maine in Orono. The Herbert E. Sargent Scholarship is decided on and awarded by a panel at the University of Maine.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
Workforce Development Manager Pete Parizo is joined by Junior Foreman Meredith Brewer and Interns Lucas Towers and Jessie Kennedy in the Flywheel Studio to discuss what makes the Sargent Internship Program different from the rest. After that discussion, don’t miss the last round of Price-Is-Right for Sargent ESOP Month!
Applications for the Sargent Scholarship are open!
This scholarship, unique in its eligibility criteria, is exclusively available to spouses and children of full-time employees. It is open to deserving graduate or undergraduate students attending any educational institution, including community colleges and trade schools (except the University of Maine at Orono).
Application Page
(Scroll down to near the bottom of the page, and please click the red "Apply Now" button to apply for the Sargent Scholarship.)
The deadline for application submissions is June 15th.
It's important to note that this scholarship is distinct from the Herbert E. Sargent Scholarship. That provides scholarship assistance to undergraduate or graduate students with either a financial need or a high academic standing at the University of Maine in Orono. The Herbert E. Sargent Scholarship is decided on and awarded by a panel at the University of Maine.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
A group of Sargent employee-owners attended the NCEO National ESOP conference and walked away feeling energized about our ESOP! This episode invites you to hear from part of that group about their biggest takeaways and why learning more about employee ownership is always important. The episode continues with a very special PRICE-IS-RIGHT on the TRUE UP BONUS, so listen in to be one of the first employee-owners to hear what the True Up Bonus value is!
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
VP of the Mid-Atlantic Justin Porter is joined by Off Road Truck Driver Darryl Jones and Bulldozer Operator Chris Pollard in the Flywheel Studio. They share a passion for getting the most out of each day and a strong bond with their crews. From their energetic morning stretches to their constant efforts to boost morale, Darryl and Chris's camaraderie with their teams shines through in this podcast episode! The episode wraps up with another thrilling round of Price-Is-Right with Herb, Eric, and Tasha, promising a new round of winners! Don’t miss out on a chance to guess this year’s True Up Bonus value!
Appspace Post
Daryl Jones and Chris Pollard show us how to stretch properly:
https://app16.api.cloud.appspace.com/console/#!/browse/content/8b32f419-87d8-47b6-b209-490f2f5ec025
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
New England Vice President of Operations Doug Morrison leads a discussion on the importance of celebrating our field technology and innovation. Construction Technology Manager Jeff Costello and Field Engineer Jeff Shock join in on the conversation to provide real world examples of when investments in technology and innovation provided a huge savings of time and money on our projects. Herb, Eric, and Tasha jump in to wrap up the episode with Price-Is-Right, so don’t miss out!
The Day Herb Almost Got Fired | S4 E43
https://www.buzzsprout.com/906964/13979949
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
Herb, Eric, and Tasha gather in the Flywheel Studio to jump start Sargent ESOP Month with Price-Is-Right and discussions about owning the work you do as an employee-owner. Stay tuned to the On-Track Podcast all month long in May for opportunities to win prizes and educate yourself on the Sargent ESOP!
Sargent's Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UnjywjsfMMA
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
Launching a company podcast is a cost-effective and focused approach to connecting with your employee-owners, particularly for geographically dispersed teams. Sargent is excited to present our journey towards effective companywide communication: the "On-Track Podcast." This session was recorded live at the National Center for Employee Ownership's (NCEO) 2024 Annual Employee Ownership Conference and was turned into a podcast centered around the art of podcasting itself. Attendees had the opportunity to actively participate by stepping up to the microphone, asking questions about the podcasting process, and figuring out how they could innovatively incorporate a podcast into their company’s communication strategy.
Learning Objectives:
- Effectively implement a company podcast into their communication plans and goals.
- Understand the steps required to prepare for and start a company podcast.
- Communicate clearly and concisely with their fellow employee-owners on important company announcements and events.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
Herb sits down in the Flywheel Studio with Maintenance Foreman Eric Gifford to talk with Shop Mechanics David Jones and Jon Moores about pulling two people from a burning car on the highway. Jon and David recall the full story on this episode, a conversation you won’t want to miss!
News story:
https://www.wabi.tv/2024/04/15/couple-pulled-burning-car-i-95/
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
Committed, accountable, responsible, and empowered - that’s what it means to CARE about safety at Sargent. Herb sits down with President/COO Eric Ritchie and Safety Director Cam Haggar in the Flywheel Studio to discuss where the idea of CARE came from and what they hope it means to all Sargent employee-owners.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
CFO Tasha Gardner is joined by Vice President of Human Resources Amanda Martin and Benefits Specialist Jessica Ashe in the Flywheel Studio to talk all things benefits. Though talking benefits isn’t the flashiest conversation, it can save you a serious amount of money to understand all the Benefits Sargent offers. Often, it can even pay to know about your benefits before you need them. Don’t miss this important episode!
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
Listen in and hear from employee-owners at the Mid-Atlantic all employee-meeting! Sebastian talks with operators, laborers, and more about their thoughts on the meeting, excitement for ESOP growth, and how much they enjoy being in one place at one time! Don’t miss this fun episode!
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
Superintendent Adam Tenan and a dozen of his crew members jump onto the podcast to talk about what made the Portland Back Cove West Storage Conduit project so special. This project was a true picture of the Sargent Core Purpose and Values. All the employee-owners at BCW continually honed their craft and made this innovative project a complete success and it is now recognized nationally! Congratulations to everyone who made this a win in the field!
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
Herb, Eric and Tasha know the new ESOP stock price so it's time for another round of Price-Is-Right! Text your guess to (833) 799-0458 for a chance to win a cash prize! The 11 closest guesses to the new stock price, without going over, will receive a cash prize equal to the new stock price in their paystub. If you get it on the money, you'll win 11 times the stock price! Get your guesses in by this Sunday at midnight.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
Herb, Eric, and Tasha sit down in the Flywheel Studio to discuss all the great things going on around the company. Between Super/Foremen meetings, all employee meetings, projects ramping up, and more, there is a lot to celebrate! Don’t miss this episode!
PREVENTIVE CARE CHALLENGE
March 4 - March 31, 2024
This challenge uses My Plan to walk you through a series of educational activities regarding your preventive care. Each week you will have a series of activities to complete on a specific topic in My Plan (preventive care, dental health, visual health, other screenings at your annual exams). You will learn more about your preventive visits, why preventive care is important and how to maintain your overall health!
Get started with your preventative care challenge:
· Log into your PreventionCloud account
· Click “Plans” located on the left menu
· Go to your Recommended “Plans"
· Find the plan tilled "Preventive Plan” and click “Start Plan”
· Once you start the plan, you will see a series of activities that will need to be completed each week to finish the challenge
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
Herb is joined by Northern Maine Regional Manager Tim LePage and Superintendent Adam Tenan in the Flywheel studio to discuss the Downeast Wind project in Cherryfield, ME! Adam shares project wins and the hurdles the crew has overcome over the last 14 months. Don’t miss this week’s shout-outs and announcements too!
PREVENTIVE CARE CHALLENGE
March 4 - March 31, 2024
This challenge uses My Plan to walk you through a series of educational activities regarding your preventive care. Each week you will have a series of activities to complete on a specific topic in My Plan (preventive care, dental health, visual health, other screenings at your annual exams). You will learn more about your preventive visits, why preventive care is important and how to maintain your overall health!
Get started with your preventative care challenge:
· Log into your PreventionCloud account
· Click “Plans” located on the left menu
· Go to your Recommended “Plans"
· Find the plan tilled "Preventive Plan” and click “Start Plan”
· Once you start the plan, you will see a series of activities that will need to be completed each week to finish the challenge
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
Herb is joined by newly elected President and COO of Sargent Eric Ritchie, CFO Tasha Gardner, as well as Board Members Keith Bennett and Tom Bailey in the Flywheel Studio to discuss Eric’s transition into President of Sargent. Though it may continue to be business as usual for most, this episode discusses why this is a big step in forwarding the Sargent legacy. Don’t miss out on this episode and encourage all Sargent employee-owners to listen!
Frequently Asked Questions:
Is Herb retiring?
No -- Herb is transitioning from President/CEO to CEO, and will remain the board of directors' chairman, while Eric takes on the president role and retains the Chief Operating Officer role.
Is Eric going to take the company in a totally different direction? How will it change?
Eric is fully bought into, and is taking on the responsibility of implementing, the strategic plan we completed in 2021, which has a focus on people and culture as its basis for success. At its root, that plan calls for us to: Invest in People; Adapt to Market Realities; Acquire Projects; Invest in Equipment & Technologies; Execute & Win in the Field; Celebrate & Promote the Wins -- then back to Invest in People.
Herb will also be overseeing strategy and vision in his retained role, and Eric will be reporting to both Herb and the Board of Directors. The governance of the company is fully behind the strategic plan -- as is Eric -- and is expecting continued progress toward its initiatives.
Is this just a step toward selling the company?
Absolutely not. In fact, one of the main reasons for the ESOP was to eliminate that possibility, in practical terms, that we would ever need to sell. Without the benefit of 100% employee-ownership, at some point in time, the end of Sargent as we know it, would come. We have built a company with a financial position that is envied. We are strong financially. YOU own it. We're NOT selling it.
We've grown a lot in the last four years since Eric has been COO; is he all about growth above everything else?
No. But remember, this growth has taken place while I've been president and it's been a joy to watch and be a part of -- and employee-owners have benefited greatly. We ALL believe growth is important for us, but not at the expense of culture and the joy we get from being a part of Sargent’s continued success. Eric's focus is more on a culture of accountability that can improve execution, than to meet any new, top-line revenue number.
What will these changes mean to me?
At the individual level, very few people will be impacted by this change, though two or three positions may have different reporting lines. There are no other position/management changes related to this at this time. The company enjoys successes that have been built long before us – for nearly a hundred years – and though we never have a birthright for success, we are well-positioned to continue the legacy thousands of Sargent employees have built as we head into our second century soon.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
Herb and Eric sit down in the Flywheel Studio to read and talk about H. E. Sargent’s journal entries from every birthday he had, every 10 years, starting in 1943. Herb shares that the goal of having discussions inspired by H. E. Sargent’s birthday is to help everyone in the company, especially those joining recently, to know what it means to be stewards of the Sargent legacy. Don’t miss this special episode celebrating Sargent’s Founder, Herbert E. Sargent!
Don’t forget about the FEDlogic webinars the last Wednesday of every month!
FEDlogic is the Sargent employee-owner's independent resource to help navigate and maximize federal and state benefits.
The seminars are educational and completely free to Sargent employee-owners and their households.
The next one is coming up on February 28th at 2pm.
They will be covering Social Security 101 and Disability/Unable to Work & Major Illness (such as cancer, ALS, & ESRD).
Sargent employee-owners can sign up using this link:
https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_fJHjCxK0Sjy6xJyCtYkq9g#/registration
The Ramsey Smart Dollar Giveaway is underway!
Earn points by working toward your money goals on the Ramsey website for a chance to win a cash prize!
During the entire month of February, every day that you log-into SmartDollar or EveryDollar, it counts as one entry.
SmartDollar is giving away CASH: $500 each week, $1,000 budget bonus, and a grand prize winner of $5,000!
If you sign up for SmartDollar, and log in each day of February, you’ll be eligible to win cash prizes all month long!
Company Keyword: sargent6536
Link:https://www.ramseysolutions.com/corporate-wellness/smartdollar/sign-up?utm_source=client-distributed&utm_medium=start_redirect&utm_content=direct_entry_start&utm_term=financial_wellness_bu&utm_campaign=start
PLUS Sargent is doing its own Ramsey SmartDollar Giveaway
Every week in February, anyone who earns 1,000 points working towards their money goals on Ramsey SmartDollar, will be entered into our own drawing for a chance to win a $250 boot voucher and a$250 Sargent store voucher!$500 total!There will be one winner per week!
Resources:
If you’re an Employee-Owner at Sargent, and haven’t joined the Sargent Employee Facebook page, please send a request and it will be approved ASAP.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/654722688058070/permalink/2072270649636593/
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
COO Eric Ritchie is joined by the entire Sargent Safety Team, Safety Director Cam Haggar and Safety Specialists Arthur Herbest, Adam Hinsman, Adam Pollock, and James Joyner in the Flywheel Studio! Eric leads the crew in a discussion about keeping all employee-owners safe on our projects and the best practices to accomplish that goal. What does it mean to have safety 100% owned by each employee-owner on our projects, and how has the construction industry changed when it comes to safety? Answers to those questions and much more can be heard on this week’s On-Track episode, so don’t miss out!
If you are an employee-owner at Sargent and would like to be a part of the Safety Committee meeting, you can reach out to your regional Safety Specialist:
Adam Hinsman (Southern Maine)
ahinsman@sargent.us
Adam Pollock (Northern Maine)
apollock@sargent.us
Arthur Herbest (Northern Maine)
aherbest@sargent.us
James Joyner (Mid-Atlantic and Piedmont Triad)
apollock@sargent.us
New Scholarship Program for Children of Employee Owners
Sargent is a member of the Employee ownership Foundation and they have announced the establishment of a new annual scholarship program that employee-owners and their children are eligible to receive for their college or vocational education. The Trustee Scholars program will provide scholarship funds for college and vocational school education for employees or the dependent children of employees who are corporate members of The ESOP Association.
Application Open: December 15, 2023 - February 15, 2024
Each year, the Foundation will award two $5,000 per year scholarships for college or trade school, renewable for up to four years each. Up to $20,000 for a four-year degree.
The Foundation will start awarding scholarships for students beginning school in the fall of 2024.
Link:
https://www.employeeownershipfoundation.org/grants-funding/trustee-scholars?_zs=ULwxd&_zl=uvCt3
The Ramsey Smart Dollar Giveaway has begun!
Earn points by working toward your money goals on the Ramsey website for a chance to win a cash prize!
During the entire month of February, every day that you log-into SmartDollar or EveryDollar, it counts as one entry.
SmartDollar is giving away CASH: $500 each week, $1,000 budget bonus, and a grand prize winner of $5,000!
If you sign up for SmartDollar, and log in each day of February, you’ll be eligible to win cash prizes all month long!
Link:https://www.ramseysolutions.com/corporate-wellness/smartdollar/sign-up?utm_source=client-distributed&utm_medium=start_redirect&utm_content=direct_entry_start&utm_term=financial_wellness_bu&utm_campaign=start
PLUS Sargent is doing its own Ramsey SmartDollar Giveaway
Every week in February, anyone who earns 1,000 points working towards their money goals on Ramsey SmartDollar, will be entered into our own drawing for a chance to win a $250 boot voucher and a$250 Sargent store voucher!$500 total!There will be one winner per week!
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
Tim Powell from the Workforce Advancement Team is joined by Foremen-in-Training Jacob Lancaster and Brandon Powell in the Flywheel Studio to discuss why Workforce Advancement is crucial to grow our current and future employee-owners. Tim, Jacob, and Brandon share a lot of wisdom in this episode, so you won’t want to miss out! Many important announcements are shared and, as always, don’t skip this week’s solid shout-outs.
Don’t forget about the FEDlogic webinars the last Wednesday of every month!
FEDlogic is our employee-owners’ independent resource to help navigate and maximize your federal and state benefits.
The seminars are educational and completely free to you and your household members!
The next one is coming up on February 28th at 2pm.
They will be covering Social Security 101 and Disability/Unable to Work & Major Illness (such as cancer, ALS, & ESRD).
Sargent employee-owners can sign up using this link:
https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_fJHjCxK0Sjy6xJyCtYkq9g#/registration
New Scholarship Program for Children of Employee Owners
Sargent is a member of the Employee ownership Foundation and they have announced the establishment of a new annual scholarship program that employee-owners and their children are eligible to receive for their college or vocational education. The Trustee Scholars program will provide scholarship funds for college and vocational school education for employees or the dependent children of employees who are corporate members of The ESOP Association.
Application Open: December 15, 2023 - February 15, 2024
Each year, the Foundation will award two $5,000 per year scholarships for college or trade school, renewable for up to four years each. Up to $20,000 for a four-year degree.
The Foundation will start awarding scholarships for students beginning school in the fall of 2024.
Link:
https://www.employeeownershipfoundation.org/grants-funding/trustee-scholars?_zs=ULwxd&_zl=uvCt3
The Ramsey Smart Dollar Giveaway has begun!
Earn points by working toward your money goals on the Ramsey website for a chance to win a cash prize!
During the entire month of February, every day that you log-into SmartDollar or EveryDollar, it counts as one entry.
SmartDollar is giving away CASH: $500 each week, $1,000 budget bonus, and a grand prize winner of $5,000!
If you sign up for SmartDollar, and log in each day of February, you’ll be eligible to win cash prizes all month long!
Link:
https://www.ramseysolutions.com/corporate-wellness/smartdollar/sign-up?utm_source=client-distributed&utm_medium=start_redirect&utm_content=direct_entry_start&utm_term=financial_wellness_bu&utm_campaign=start
PLUS Sargent is doing its own Ramsey SmartDollar Giveaway
Every week in February, anyone who earns 1,000 points working towards their money goals on Ramsey SmartDollar, will be entered into our own drawing for a chance to win a $250 boot voucher and a$250 Sargent store voucher!$500 total!There will be one winner per week!
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
VP of HR Amanda Martin sits down in the Flywheel Studio with HR Manager Claire Ryder, Benefits Administrator Jessica Ashe, Human Resources Specialist Justin Embrey, and HR Coordinator Cassie Redihan to talk about all things HR! This is a great episode to learn more about the team and why they are an awesome resource for all Sargent employee-owners. The group also shares some important announcements that you won’t want to miss!
New Scholarship Program for Children of Employee Owners
Sargent is a member of the Employee ownership Foundation and they have announced the establishment of a new annual scholarship program that employee-owners and their children are eligible to receive for their college or vocational education. The Trustee Scholars program will provide scholarship funds for college and vocational school education for employees or the dependent children of employees who are corporate members of The ESOP Association.
Application Open: December 15, 2023 - February 15, 2024
Each year, the Foundation will award two $5,000 per year scholarships for college or trade school, renewable for up to four years each. Up to $20,000 for a four-year degree.
The Foundation will start awarding scholarships for students beginning school in the fall of 2024.
Link:
https://www.employeeownershipfoundation.org/grants-funding/trustee-scholars?_zs=ULwxd&_zl=uvCt3
The Ramsey Smart Dollar Giveaway starts on February 1st!
Earn points by working toward your money goals on the Ramsey website for a chance to win a cash prize!
During the entire month of February, every day that you log-into SmartDollar or EveryDollar, it counts as one entry.
Since there are 29 days in February, everyone still has the opportunity to submit 29 entries!
SmartDollar is giving away CASH: $500 each week, $1,000 budget bonus, and a grand prize winner of $5,000!
If you sign up for SmartDollar, and log in each day of February, you’ll be eligible to win cash prizes all month long!
Link:
https://www.ramseysolutions.com/corporate-wellness/smartdollar/sign-up?utm_source=client-distributed&utm_medium=start_redirect&utm_content=direct_entry_start&utm_term=financial_wellness_bu&utm_campaign=start
PLUS Sargent is doing its own Ramsey SmartDollar Giveaway
Every week in February, anyone who earns 1,000 points working towards their money goals on Ramsey SmartDollar, will be entered into our own drawing for a chance to win a $250 boot voucher and a$250 Sargent store voucher!$500 total!There will be one winner per week!
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
Vice President of Operations, Mid-Atlantic Justin Porter is joined by Regional Manager of the Piedmont Triad office Chris Horn, Superintendent Dustin Linders and Superintendent Scott Williams in the Flywheel Studio! Justin leads them in a conversation about why we picked Greensboro, NC to open our fourth office and how the team will work together in that region. Don’t miss this episode and the opportunity to learn more about how your company operates.
New Scholarship Program for Children of Employee Owners
Sargent is a member of the Employee ownership Foundation and they have announced the establishment of a new annual scholarship program that employee-owners and their children are eligible to receive for their college or vocational education. The Trustee Scholars program will provide scholarship funds for college and vocational school education for employees or the dependent children of employees who are corporate members of The ESOP Association. – That’s us.
Application Open: December 15, 2023 - February 15, 2024
Created by the Employee Ownership Foundation for children of employee owners.
Open to employee owners and family members of corporate members of The ESOP Association at the time of application.
Each year, the Foundation will award two $5,000 per year scholarships for college or trade school, renewable for up to four years each.
Up to $20,000 for a four-year degree.
Scholarship winners will also be eligible for a paid internship in the Washington headquarters of The ESOP Association.
The Foundation will start awarding scholarships for students beginning school in the fall of 2024.
Apply Now!https://www.employeeownershipfoundation.org/grants-funding/trustee-scholars?_zs=ULwxd&_zl=uvCt3
File your taxes for free!
We’ve invested in SmartDollar to help you take control of your finances—including your taxes. And that means you can file with Ramsey SmartTax for free! (And what’s more budget friendly than free?)
Get started with Ramsey SmartTax here. If you don’t have a SmartDollar account yet, create your account and you’ll find Ramsey SmartTax in the Money Tools tab in SmartDollar.
Company Keyword: sargent6536
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
COO Eric Ritchie is joined by Superintendent James McCarthy in the Flywheel Studio and dials in Regional Manager, Southern Maine Matt Thibault, Project Executive Nick Rosswog, and Superintendent John Madigan to discuss their current projects. How do these two projects add value to what we do and what important lessons have they learned? Answers to those questions and more on this week’s episode!
New Scholarship Program for Children of Employee Owners
Sargent is a member of the Employee ownership Foundation and they have announced the establishment of a new annual scholarship program that employee-owners and their children are eligible to receive for their college or vocational education. The Trustee Scholars program will provide scholarship funds for college and vocational school education for employees or the dependent children of employees who are corporate members of The ESOP Association. – That’s us.
Application Open: December 15, 2023 - February 15, 2024
Created by the Employee Ownership Foundation for children of employee owners.
Open to employee owners and family members of corporate members of The ESOP Association at the time of application.
Each year, the Foundation will award two $5,000 per year scholarships for college or trade school, renewable for up to four years each.
Up to $20,000 for a four-year degree.
Scholarship winners will also be eligible for a paid internship in the Washington headquarters of The ESOP Association.
The Foundation will start awarding scholarships for students beginning school in the fall of 2024.
Apply Now!https://www.employeeownershipfoundation.org/grants-funding/trustee-scholars?_zs=ULwxd&_zl=uvCt3
File your taxes for free!
We’ve invested in SmartDollar to help you take control of your finances—including your taxes. And that means you can file with Ramsey SmartTax for free! (And what’s more budget friendly than free?)
Get started with Ramsey SmartTax here. If you don’t have a SmartDollar account yet, create your account and you’ll find Ramsey SmartTax in the Money Tools tab in SmartDollar.
Company Keyword: sargent6536
Happy filing!
Resubscribe to the On-Track Podcast text messages:
833-799-0458
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If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
Pete Parizo from the Workforce Advancement team leads Workforce Advancement Director Kevin Gordon, Superintendent Peter Broberg, and Foreman Spencer Whittemore in a conversation about the different ways to mentor someone. Each of them shares a time when someone invested in them by being their mentor and as well as when they became a mentor and what that means. Important wisdom in this episode that you won’t want to miss!
Teladoc is a completely free way for Sargent employee-owners to get in touch with a doctor at home, in a hotel, basically from anywhere.
Sargent has partnered with our health insurance provider Diversified Group to offer Teladoc at zero cost.
Use of Teladoc is 100% covered by Sargent for you and your dependents when you are covered by the Sargent health insurance plan.
It’s completely confidential!
1-800-TELADOC (835-2362)
Teladoc.com
Get started now because who wants to set up an account while you’re sick? Before you can meet with a doctor for the first time, Teladoc needs some background medical history. – so don’t wait.
Set up your account online and then you’ll have access to the mobile app so you can use it anytime and anywhere.
When you’re setting up your account online, after hitting the “register” button in the top right-hand corner, there will be check box at the bottom by “next” that says, “I have a code from my employer, insurance or Teladoc Health” you do not need to check this box to proceed.
It’s a great tool and can save you an expensive trip to the ER or walk-in-care.
· Teladoc - The convenient choice
o Talk to a doctor in minutes
o Visit by phone or video
o Available 24/7/365, anywhere
o Get a prescription
o Cannot treat more severe medical conditions
· Family Doctor - The in-office choice
o Long-term relationship
o Periodic checkups
o Treats more severe issues
o May not be available for days
o Must leave home or work
o Sit in a waiting room with other sick people
· Urgent Care/ER - The emergency choice
o Available 24/7/365
o Treats emergency issues
o High cost of care
o Long wait times
o Must leave home or work
o Sit in a waiting room with other sick people
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
Pete Parizo from Workforce Development sits down with first year laborers Dustyn Davis and Aaden Lane in the Flywheel Studio to discuss leadership. With this discussion, Pete hopes to encourage anyone to be leader, no matter what position you hold. But what does that look like? An answer to that question and many more on this week’s episode, along with some quality shout-outs!
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
Regional Manager, Northern Maine Tim LePage is joined by Regional Manager, Bangor Jim Braley, Superintendents Scott Blanchard and Richard Gushue and Foreman Adam Kapaldo in the Flywheel Studio. This crew sits down to discuss their projects in the Brewer Maine area and compare lessons learned and their biggest wins during the 2023 season!
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
Herb, Tasha, and Eric celebrate the Christmas season in the Flywheel Studio. If you’re looking for an episode to fill you with holiday spirit, look no further than this one. Merry Christmas everyone!
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
Staying healthy and checking in on yourself is something we all tend to put on the back burner during busy seasons of our lives. Neglecting your health can lead to avoidable injuries or sickness, and the same can be said for mental health. Herb is joined by VP of HR Amanda Martin and HR Manager Claire Ryder in the Flywheel Studio to have a conversation with Erin Craw, a Mental Health First Aid Instructor from Youturn Health. They talk about staying mentally healthy during times of stress and Erin shares the importance of distinguishing between mental health and mental illness. Just like eating healthy, taking a daily walk, and making regular visits to the doctor for a check-up, it’s important to keep your mind healthy. Erin shares the best ways to manage mental health during this episode of the On-Track Podcast.
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
Herb is joined by General Manager Asphalt & Aggregates Joshua Shaw and Asphalt Plant Manager Ed Barnes in the spacious Flywheel Studio to discuss the season and all the changes at the Sargent Asphalt Plant and Quarry during 2023. A good time, good discussions with some good people. Don’t miss this episode!
Expansion at the Asphalt Plant:
https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/uk5vpagjd7srwrtwf6v8k/New-area-at-the-Asphalt-Plant.jpg?rlkey=g1a7dw0dx7ee7za83adeyapnh&dl=0
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
COO Eric Ritchie is joined by Vice President of Operations, Mid-Atlantic Justin Porter and Vice President of Operations, New England Doug Morrison to discuss the Sargent 2023 season. What did we learn, and what were our biggest wins? A lot to celebrate in this episode and don’t miss some awesome shout-outs!
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
Herb, Tasha, and Eric sit down in the Flywheel Studio to discuss everything they are thankful for here at Sargent and with the people we have and work they’ve done, the list is long! Happy Thanksgiving!
Check out the videos from Maine Senator Susan Collins and Senator Angus King congratulating Sargent on our new Main Office!
https://youtu.be/FSs6Mf3PGYs
https://youtu.be/C8b1FwYLVTs
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
Former Sargent Superintendent Bruce Hubbard visits the Flywheel Studio to take a walk down memory lane to the day he almost fired Herb. What lessons did Herb learn from this life event? What can we learn from Herb’s mistakes and how should a mentor approach a similar situation? Answers to those questions, some good discussions, and a winner of the Price-Is-Right is announced, all on this episode!
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
Many keen listeners of last week's episode noticed something was missing. Well Price-Is-Right is here and it's just as exciting as ever!
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
Herb is joined by Sargent CFO Tasha Gardner as well as Keith Bennett and Tom Bailey in the Flywheel Studio to discuss the Sargent Board of Directors and their roles on the board. Why does Sargent have external board members? What brought them to the Sargent board? Those questions answered, plus a bonus Price-Is-Right question with the opportunity to win some serious cash!
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
Vice President of Operations, New England Doug Morrison discusses the recent 2023 Technology Peer Group with Construction Technology Manager Jeff Costello and Tyler Grotewiel from Emery Sapp & Sons. Doug and Jeff recently hosted many representatives from construction companies across the U.S. at Godfrey Drive to discuss what works for us and what works from them when it comes technology in the field. Later in this episode, someone wins big with the Price-Is-Right and Herb shares an important announcement!
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
CEO Herb is joined by CFO Tasha Gardner and COO Eric Ritchie in the Flywheel Studio to discuss the importance of keeping the Employee-Ownership conversation going. Herb reminds us that, even though it’s easy to get into the daily grind, Sargent Employee-Owners own the work that they do and the equipment that they use. Also, don’t miss out on this week’s Price-Is-Right question, the prize is a big one!
Employee-Owner ESOP Photo contest!
Instagram – Tag Sargent @sargent_employeeowned and use #SargentESOP 1 Winner $500.00
Pictures emailed directly to Lea Howe:
Bangor $500.00
Northern Maine $500.00
Southern Maine $500.00
New Hampshire $500.00
Mid-Atlantic $500.00
Aggregates & Asphalt $500.00
Shop $500.00
Office $500.00
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
Herb is joined by CFO Tasha Gardner and COO Eric Ritchie to talk about ESOPs with the Founder of Moody's Collision Centers, Shawn Moody! The crew discusses what makes employee ownership so special for the company and the people that make it happen every day. Don’t miss out on this week’s Price-Is-Right question and important announcements too!
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
Herb is joined by CFO Tasha Gardner and Former CFO Keith Bennett of Emery Sapp & Sons to discuss ESOP Month and the benefits employee-ownership has offered both companies. Keith currently serves on the Emery Sapp & Sons board of directors as well as the Sargent board of directors. Keith was instrumental in Sargent’s journey to become an ESOP and this episode dives into that and how far Sargent has come during the 10 years of our employee-ownership. Then COO Eric Ritchie joins the podcast for this week’s shout-outs and Price-Is-Right question!
Price-Is-Right Question: What was the total amount of ESOP Distributions paid in September 2023?
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
Employee Ownership Month kicks off with the first ever Bizarro On-Track Podcast hosted by Business Development Director Glenn Adams. Glenn is joined by Senior Project Executive Craig Shorey and special guest President and CEO Shawn Nichols of Bull Moose. Bull Moose is an independent retailer and record store chain based in Portland, Maine. The chain has operated since 1989 and has eight locations in Maine and three in New Hampshire and just so happens to also be 100% employee owned! Glenn, Craig, and Shawn discuss the similarities and differences between an employee-owned Heavy Civil Engineering company and an independent retailer and record store.
Don’t miss out on the month-long Price-Is-Right questions! If you’re an Employee-Owner, watch out for the weekly texts containing the ESOP related trivia questions. Respond to the text with your answer for a chance to win some money!
This week’s Price-Is-Right Question: # of Participants with balances as of 12/31/2022?
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
Sargent’s Virginia office has served the Mid-Atlantic region for nearly 30 years. The continued growth and increased work in the region have allowed us to expand again, opening an office in Greensboro, North Carolina. Herb sits down with COO Eric Ritchie and Vice President of Operations, Mid-Atlantic Justin Porter to discuss that growth. Don’t miss this episode and don’t miss the opportunity to win some money!
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
The amount and variety of Winter Training the Workforce Advancement Team provides continues to grow. Herb sits down with Kevin Gordon and Pete Parizo to talk about our plan for this winter and how we plan to improve the training in the future. Some great shout-outs and announcements this week as well!
Ramsey SmartDollar:
Create a free account!
Visit: smartdollar.com/start
Keyword: sargent6536
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
Herb dials in Superintendents Pete Broberg and Keith Edgecomb to talk about their two projects in the Northern Maine Region. What obstacles have they faced and what have been their wins in the field? Answers to those questions any more good conversations on this week’s episode of the On-Track Podcast and don't miss the special ending brought to you by Hermon Rec!
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
Herb is digitally joined by Model Builder Ryan Haasen in the Flywheel Studio to discuss the Sargent Diorama Table that Ryan built. The diorama began its journey in Ryan’s shop, traveled over 2,000 miles, crossed the Canadian border, many states, and finally arrived at its resting place in our Great Room. Herb and Ryan talk about the inspiration for the project and how he got into this craft. Also, don’t miss three important announcements!
Check out the Sargent Diorama Table!
Follow Ryan on Instagram!
Ramsey SmartDollar:
Create a free account!
Visit: smartdollar.com/start
Keyword: sargent6536
Resources:
If you’re an Employee-Owner at Sargent, and haven’t joined the Sargent Employee Facebook page, please send a request and it will be approved ASAP.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/654722688058070/permalink/2072270649636593/
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
Herb sits down with General Manager Eric Clark to discuss Wimmer North America’s history and what sets it apart from other excavator buckets. Don’t miss this week’s shoutouts and three important announcements, including how you could win some free money!
Ramsey SmartDollar:
Create a free account!
Visit: smartdollar.com/start
Keyword: sargent6536
Resources:
If you’re an Employee-Owner at Sargent, and haven’t joined the Sargent Employee Facebook page, please send a request and it will be approved ASAP.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/654722688058070/permalink/2072270649636593/
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
Herb talks with Senior Project Executive Travis Ridky and Superintendents Mike VanMerlin and Chris Powell about two landfill projects in the Mid-Atlantic Region. What obstacles have they faced and how did they learn to overcome them? That and many more good conversations on this week’s episode.
Resources:
If you’re an Employee-Owner at Sargent, and haven’t joined the Sargent Employee Facebook page, please send a request and it will be approved ASAP.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/654722688058070/permalink/2072270649636593/
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
Herb sits down with returning employee-owner and Project Executive Seth Watts as well as our new HR Manager Claire Ryder! Herb helps us get to know them a little better, learn about their role in the company and what their favorite color is. Also visiting the Flywheel Studio is Kevin Henry, who is he? Listen to this week’s episode to find out!
Resources:
If you’re an Employee-Owner at Sargent, and haven’t joined the Sargent Employee Facebook page, please send a request and it will be approved ASAP.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/654722688058070/permalink/2072270649636593/
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
Herb sits down the CFO Tasha Gardner and COO Eric Ritchie to discuss all happenings at Sargent. Important meetings, new additions to the headquarters and continued strides in mentoring. Also don’t miss this week’s shout outs and slightly out of place announcement.
Resources:
If you’re an Employee-Owner at Sargent, and haven’t joined the Sargent Employee Facebook page, please send a request and it will be approved ASAP.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/654722688058070/permalink/2072270649636593/
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
COO Eric Ritchie sits down with Vice President of Operations, New England Doug Morrison, Vice President of Operations, Mid-Atlantic Justin Porter, and Business Development Director Glenn Adams in the Flywheel Studio to discuss the recent Sargent Volume Planning Meeting. What is volume planning, and why do we do it? The crew fills you in on those answers and more on this week’s episode.
Resources:
If you’re an Employee-Owner at Sargent, and haven’t joined the Sargent Employee Facebook page, please send a request and it will be approved ASAP.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/654722688058070/permalink/2072270649636593/
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/apply/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
After Founder & CEO of Path for Growth, Alex Judd paid a visit to Godfrey Drive to give a presentation on leadership and communication, Herb sat down with him to discuss those same topics and why they matter. How can we continue to grow in those areas, and what does good communication look like? Answers to those questions, shout outs and announcements can be heard on this week’s episode.
Alex Judd and Herb in the Flywheel Studio.
Resources:
If you’re an Employee-Owner at Sargent, and haven’t joined the Sargent Employee Facebook page, please send a request and it will be approved ASAP.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/654722688058070/permalink/2072270649636593/
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/careers/open-positions/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
Herb sits down with Construction Technology Manager Jeff Costello and Layout Foreman Jeff Shock to discuss the Sargent Field Technology Committee. What does the committee do and what have they done to add value to Sargent? Jeff and Jeff tell us all about it. Don’t miss a special shout-out and this week’s important announcement.
Resources:
If you’re an Employee-Owner at Sargent, and haven’t joined the Sargent Employee Facebook page, please send a request and it will be approved ASAP.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/654722688058070/permalink/2072270649636593/
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/careers/open-positions/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
Herb gets on the phone with Superintendent Jake Stevens and Senior Foreman Stephen Randall to find out how the Augusta, Kelton Road project has been going. After that discussion, Herbs talks with Regional Manager, New Hampshire Sean Milligan and Superintendent John Sanborn about the Success, Mt. Carberry Landfill and how well that project is doing. Both crews talk about what they’ve learned and how they can use those lessons to bring value to future projects.
Resources:
If you’re an Employee-Owner at Sargent, and haven’t joined the Sargent Employee Facebook page, please send a request and it will be approved ASAP.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/654722688058070/permalink/2072270649636593/
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/careers/open-positions/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
COO Eric Ritchie is joined by Vice President of Operations, New England Doug Morrison and Vice President of Operations, Mid-Atlantic Justin Porter in the Flywheel Studio. The crew discusses how Sargent’s season is going so far, our biggest wins in the field and the lessons we’ve learned. Don’t miss this week’s shout-outs and announcements too!
Resources:
If you’re an Employee-Owner at Sargent, and haven’t joined the Sargent Employee Facebook page, please send a request and it will be approved ASAP.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/654722688058070/permalink/2072270649636593/
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/careers/open-positions/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
Herb is joined by Sargent Project Executive Brent Williams and Junior Superintendent Jeshua Dearborn to discuss the Northern Maine Solar Train. What does solar power work mean at Sargent and how many miles has Jeshua already put on his new truck? Those discussions as well as shout-outs and announcements can be heard on this episode of the On-Track Podcast.
Resources:
If you’re an Employee-Owner at Sargent, and haven’t joined the Sargent Employee Facebook page, please send a request and it will be approved ASAP.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/654722688058070/permalink/2072270649636593/
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/careers/open-positions/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
The Sargent Safety Team, Adam Hinsman, Arthur Herbest, Tim Mandel, and Safety Director Cameron Haggar talk with Herb about Trench Safety Week. What can we do to avoid the worst-case scenario? An important conversation full of resources. This week’s submitted shout-outs are also shared, and several announcements are made.
CPWR – Trench Handouts, Planning Tools & Training Programs
https://www.cpwr.com/.../other-resources.../trench-safety/
OSHA Trench Resources
https://www.osha.gov/trenching-excavation
FEDlogic webinar hosted the last Wednesday of every month:
Sign-up on: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_jiMFInk1TeSt8VEbY1jc1g#/registration
Sargent Scholarship Application:
chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://sargent.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Scholarship-Form-2022-Fillable-PDF-1.pdf
Resources:
If you’re an Employee-Owner at Sargent, and haven’t joined the Sargent Employee Facebook page, please send a request and it will be approved ASAP.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/654722688058070/permalink/2072270649636593/
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/careers/open-positions/
If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:
sbennage@sargent.us
Herb talks with interns Kyle Salley, Tyler Doliber, and Cam Louder about what it means to be an intern at Sargent. What are their biggest challenges, what have they learned, how does it compare to other places where they have worked? Each of them shares their own perspective and experiences throughout the episode. As always Herb shares this week’s shout-outs and some important announcements.
🚧
If you're an employee-owner and haven’t yet registered for the 2023 Wellness Program, please follow steps below. Using your computer or mobile device, go to www.preventioncloud.com or download the PreventionCloud app.
WELLNESS PORTAL REGISTRATION
FIRSTNAMELASTNAMEBirthyear (ex. JOHNSMITH1972)
Password
Birthdate (MMDDYYYY)
*Once logged in, you will be prompted to change your password
Employees & Spouses have their own login.
Using your computer or mobile device, go to preventioncloud.com or download the PreventionCloud App.
Employees must invite spouses to participate. Instructions for Spouse Invitations are found on Page 3 of the Program Manual.
🚧
FEDlogic webinar hosted the last Wednesday of every month:
Sign-up on: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_jiMFInk1TeSt8VEbY1jc1g#/registration
Resources:
If you’re an Employee-Owner at Sargent, and haven’t joined the Sargent Employee Facebook page, please send a request and it will be approved ASAP.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/654722688058070/permalink/2072270649636593/
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/careers/open-positions/
Junior Superintendent Tim Powell and Project Executive Nick Rosswog talk with Herb about how their Microsoft Project in South Hill, Virginia is going. The crew discusses the difficulties of working on a project with many subcontractors working simultaneously and what our crew can learn from it. As always, Herb reads off submitted shout-outs, and shares important information about the Sargent scholarship.
Sargent Scholarship Application:
chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://sargent.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Scholarship-Form-2022-Fillable-PDF-1.pdf
Resources:
If you’re an Employee-Owner at Sargent, and haven’t joined the Sargent Employee Facebook page, please send a request and it will be approved ASAP.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/654722688058070/permalink/2072270649636593/
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/careers/open-positions/
A subject that can be a bit touchy, but an important one, let’s talk money. Why does Sargent care so much about the retirement of its employee-owners and what other benefits does the company offer to help with financial success? Pete, Tasha and Herb sit down to talk about it all. The bonus Price-Is-Right answer is also revealed, so don’t miss out!
Resources:
If you’re an Employee-Owner at Sargent, and haven’t joined the Sargent Employee Facebook page, please send a request and it will be approved ASAP.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/654722688058070/permalink/2072270649636593/
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/careers/open-positions/
Tasha, Eric, and Herb wrap up Sargent’s month-long celebration for our 10th anniversary of being an employee-owned company. Some surprises in this episode, and some more giveaways? Listen to find out how you can win! Also in this episode, an important announcement about how to maximize your state/federal benefits and health savings accounts.
Beginning this month, FEDlogic will begin offering monthly seminars at 1:00 pm, Central Standard Time, on the last Wednesday of each month. The first seminar will be held on Wednesday, May 31st. Some topics that will be discussed include retirement, disability, Medicare, Medicaid, and more.
Link:
https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_jiMFInk1TeSt8VEbY1jc1g#/registration
Resources:
If you’re an Employee-Owner at Sargent, and haven’t joined the Sargent Employee Facebook page, please send a request and it will be approved ASAP.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/654722688058070/permalink/2072270649636593/
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/careers/open-positions/
Herb calls up Senior Foremen John Koch and Mike Paradis to discuss their thoughts on employee ownership. John has been with Sargent for over 20 years and Mike about four years. Their different perspectives tell an interesting story about what it means to be an employee-owner. Also don’t miss the announced winners for this week’s Price-Is-Right and the question you’ll need to hear for next week’s contest!
Sargent Scholarship: https://sargent.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Scholarship-Form-2022-Fillable-PDF-1.pdf
Resources:
If you’re an Employee-Owner at Sargent, and haven’t joined the Sargent Employee Facebook page, please send a request and it will be approved ASAP.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/654722688058070/permalink/2072270649636593/
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/careers/open-positions/
A continuation of celebrating 10 years of employee-ownership at Sargent! Herb has a conversation with Virgil Bradbury and Carl Morgan from Emery Sapp & Sons. The three of them look back on Sargent’s journey, from humble beginnings to where the company is now. The answer to last week's Price-Is-Right question and the winners are revealed. Find out if you've won and start thinking of the winning answer for next week's Price-Is-Right!
Sargent Scholarship: https://sargent.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Scholarship-Form-2022-Fillable-PDF-1.pdf
Resources:
If you’re an Employee-Owner at Sargent, and haven’t joined the Sargent Employee Facebook page, please send a request and it will be approved ASAP.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/654722688058070/permalink/2072270649636593/
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/careers/open-positions/
Part two of the On-Track Podcast Variety Show! Over twenty guests sit down with Herb to celebrate 10 years of employee ownership. This is not an episode you want to miss! The answer to last week's Price-Is-Right question and the winners are revealed. Find out if you've won and start thinking of the winning answer for next week's Price-Is-Right!
Resources:
If you’re an Employee-Owner at Sargent, and haven’t joined the Sargent Employee Facebook page, please send a request and it will be approved ASAP.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/654722688058070/permalink/2072270649636593/
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/careers/open-positions/
Over twenty guests sit down with Herb to celebrate 10 years of employee ownership. This is not an episode you want to miss! The answer to last week's Price-Is-Right question and the winners are revealed. Find out if you've won and start thinking of the winning answer for next week's Price-Is-Right!
Resources:
If you’re an Employee-Owner at Sargent, and haven’t joined the Sargent Employee Facebook page, please send a request and it will be approved ASAP.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/654722688058070/permalink/2072270649636593/
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/careers/open-positions/
Happy (almost) 10 years of employee-ownership! Tasha, Eric, and Herb talk about what employee-ownership means to them and give the first clue in the month-long series of Price-Is-Right questions. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to win a big prize and the bragging rights when you get it right!
Resources:
If you’re an Employee-Owner at Sargent, and haven’t joined the Sargent Employee Facebook page, please send a request and it will be approved ASAP.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/654722688058070/permalink/2072270649636593/
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/careers/open-positions/
President & CEO Herb Sargent is joined by General Manager Asphalt & Aggregates Joshua Shaw, Plant Manager Ed Barnes, and Quarry Foreman Chris Curtis in the Flywheel Studio. The crew fills us in on their operations and they fill us in on all the improvements they’ve made over the winter. An awesome amount of shout-outs are shared and an important announcement is made.
Resources:
If you’re an Employee-Owner at Sargent, and haven’t joined the Sargent Employee Facebook page, please send a request and it will be approved ASAP.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/654722688058070/permalink/2072270649636593/
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/careers/open-positions/
President & CEO Herb Sargent, Vice President-Operations & COO Eric Ritchie sit down to discuss a returning guest to Sargent, safety, and the importance of having each other’s backs. They share the weekly shout-outs and two important announcements.
Resources:
If you’re an Employee-Owner at Sargent, and haven’t joined the Sargent Employee Facebook page, please send a request and it will be approved ASAP.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/654722688058070/permalink/2072270649636593/
If you liked this week’s episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website.
https://sargent.us/careers/open-positions/
President& CEO Herb Sargent is joined by Workforce Advancement Director Kevin Gordon and Workforce Development Specialist Pete Parizo in the Flywheel studio. Those two guys have been busy this winter, and they tell us all about it on this episode. The crew reads off a big list of shout-out submissions (keep them coming) and there’s one new announcement.
Vice President-Operations & COOE Eric Ritchie, is joined by Equipment Superintendent Tim Richards, Shop Foreman Eric Gifford, and Field Maintenance Foreman Ryan Kennedy, in the Flywheel Studio. The crew talks about the shop’s busiest time of year, and always, they read some shout-outs and Eric announces the new Wellness Challenge, “Pay it Forward.”
Herb and Eric sit down with Mikel Bowman, the President of Bowman Legacies, to discuss leadership, mentoring and how both of those go beyond the jobsite. Mikel mentors on topics like leadership development and organizational culture and joined Sargent during our Superintendent and Foreman meetings. Everyone who attended his talk walked away, blown away. This podcast provides a window into what Mikel mentored on, and we hope it proves to be beneficial to anyone who listens.
Vice President-Finance & CFO Tasha Gardner, Human Resources Manager Heather Hutchinson, and Benefits Manager Amy Somes, introduce us to Sargent’s new Vice President-HR Amanda Martin. The crew talks about recent HR efforts and we get to find out what Amanda’s favorite color is. Afterward, stay tuned for shout-outs and announcements.
Superintendent Adam Tenan, Operations Manager for Northern New England Tim LePage, and President & CEO Herb Sargent sit down to discuss the Cherryfield Downeast Wing project and the Superintendent & Foreman meeting. As always, they read the sent in shout-outs and the winners of the ABCs of Healthy Eating Challenge are announced!
A full house in the, yet-to-be-named, podcast studio. This episode provides a full update of some exciting projects going on south of New England. After project talk, the group gives us this week’s shout-outs and information on an important 401K update.
VP of New England Operations, Doug Morrison and Operations Manager for Northern New England, Tim LePage sit down with Superintendent, Garret Graves to talk about his project, what he does in his free time, and his beefy arms. The crew also gives an update on weekly shout-outs and another reminder to stick with the latest wellness challenge, the ABCs of Healthy Eating.
VP of New England operations Doug Morrison and Southern Maine regional manager Matt Thibault help us get to know Superintendent James McCarthy. Doug and Matt want to know what gets James out of bed and his boots laced up in the morning. After the "lightning round questions," the group discusses the Maine Turnpike exit 35 project in Saco. Doug, Matt and James also share the weekly shout-outs and Amy Somes, Sargent’s benefits manager, stops in with a reminder about facts on Sargent’s new health insurance.
Sargent superintendent Scott Blanchard, operations manager for northern New England Tim LePage, and Herb sit down to discuss the progress on the I-395 extension in Brewer. Also included are some weekly shout-outs and a reminder about the new wellness challenge, the ABCs of healthy eating.
Sargent's Safety Director Cam Haggar and Herb sit down to discuss the best way to start the day, and upcoming season, off right. Getting a strong start. "You never have to recover from a strong start." Many great shout-outs to be heard on this week's episode, as well as an announcement about a new challenge, the ABCs of healthy eating.
Eric and Herb have Matt Thibault and Doug Morrison on to discuss their promotions and Sargent's opportunities.
Tasha, Eric and Herb look back on overcoming incredible headwinds in 2022, and take a look ahead to 2023.
Tasha, Eric and Herb more or less gush their way through a 24-minute podcast thanking you all for bringing your all to each other and to Sargent!
Eric and Herb follow up on the Workforce Advancement podcast from last week to weave together Investing in People, Momentum of the Flywheel, and Execution.
Workforce Advancement gurus Kevin Gordon, Pete Parizo and Kendall Bickford join Herb in Spacious Podcast Studio A -- Shout-outs!
In Herb's absence, Tasha and Eric invited Mr. Tim Richards in to discuss many new additions to the equipment fleet and the maintenance department's vital role to Sargent's operations. Shout-outs, announcements, and more!
Tasha and Eric join on the podcast this week to talk about the state of the company, what the near-term future looks like, and declare the winner on the Price is Right -- Profit-sharing Bonus edition!
After a busy National ESOP Month series of podcast episodes, it's time to get caught up on some COMPANY HISTORY -- Herb reviews both Herb E's 1972 journal AND his own 2017 journal.
A new Price is Right item: what will 2022's Profit-Sharing bonus be?
Amy Somes, Eric Ritchie, and Tasha Gardner join Herb in Spacious Podcast Studio A to just plain give away cash to Sargent's employee-owners!
Back in Spacious Podcast Studio A, Tasha and Herb outline the games/competitions again, give away some cash prizes, call some GREAT shout-outs, and offer an announcement on UKG, our software platform.
In Sioux Falls, South Dakota for a peer group meeting, Justin Porter and Herb recorded from the actual FALLS in Sioux Falls this week, continuing National ESOP month games, prizes, and giveaways!
Week 2 of National ESOP Month returns to the welcome confines of Spacious Podcast Studio A -- Amy Somes and Tasha Gardner join Herb to outline how Sargent employee-owners can cash in on a contest as part of the ESOP-month celebration.
Shout-outs; Price-is-Right; TWO IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENTS!
Eric Ritchie, Justin Porter, and Doug Morrison join Herb on the road in Spacious Podcast Studio #716 (my hotel room in Nashville -- we're at a SEMINAR to help us improve the business!).
FIRST CLUE to win BIG cash prizes, Price is Right, Shout-outs!
October is National ESOP Month, and we're celebrating BIG TIME!
Our ESOP Valuator, Nate Dykes is in the house on the eve of ESOP Month to talk about valuation; Tasha and Amy are here putting BIG CASH PRIZES on the line for ALL employee-owners to participate in the challenge!
GREAT shout-outs this week!
With National ESOP Month coming up, Tasha and Amy visit the podcast booth to discuss the difference between Sargent ESOP Month and National ESOP Month, plus add some color to what we have planned for competitions, prizes and giveaways to our Employee-Owners in October! Shout-outs!!!!
Safety Director Cam Haggar joins Herb in Spacious Podcast Studio A to talk about some very powerful information our safety software, NIXN, is providing us to help keep us safe. Shout-outs, and an announcement about boot and safety glasses reimbursement!
As we journey through the company's operations, yet another very important aspect is our Fabrication and Welding operation, spearheaded by Red Rancourt and Irv McInnis. They Join Tim Richards and Herb to break down all the various ways they work both inside and outside the company to bring incredible value to Sargent. Shout-outs and announcements!
Equipment Superintendent Tim Richards, Shop Foreman Eric Gifford, and newly promoted Field Maintenance Foreman Ryan Kennedy join Herb in Spacious Podcast Studio A to discuss trends and challenges in YOUR equipment acquisition and maintenance. Important Walk Across America announcement and, as always, SHOUT-OUTS!!!!
On the homestretch of our trip around the company, COO Eric Ritchie and Herb catch up with NH Ops Manager Sean Milligan and Mid-Atlantic Ops Manager Justin Porter. Just a few great shout-outs -- we can use more!
Operations Managers Tim LePage and Doug Morrison (Northern and Southern Maine, respectively) join Eric Ritchie and Herb to provide an update on the amazing work going on throughout Maine. Lots of Shout-outs, plus an announcement by Amy Somes!
Asphalt and Aggregates Manager Josh Shaw joins Bangor Area Manager Jim Braley with Eric Ritchie in Spacious Podcast Studio A to talk about current goings-on as we work our way around the company for a late-summer update from the various regions. Some great shout-outs, and an important announcement about next week's Safe & Sound Week!
Superintendent Keith Edgecomb joins via cell phone to give an update on his project in Baileyville, Maine. Amy joins in to explain the benefits survey she has coming out -- AND WHY IT'S IMPORTANT! Some great shout-outs!
It's a busy week as we have both our volume planning AND our board of directors meeting this week -- PLUS Cam has great news on our Workers Comp Experience Mod Rating. Why do you care? Listen up!
On July 21, 2005, Sargent & Sargent acquired HE Sargent, and in the next few months they were combined to become Sargent Corporation, now simply SARGENT.
Pete joins this week to talk about how parts of the Sargent Construction Academy are evolving and how they will always evolve to some degree. Amy Somes joins in to talk about financial freedom, resilience, and how Ramsay Smart Dollar will help.
We contracted to provide Ramsay Smart Dollar to our employee-owners as a simple, no-nonsense way to establish goals, improve habits, and build financial literacy and freedom. It's NO COST to you, but you'll benefit greatly if you follow!
Here's a link to the webinar -- this 40-minute video could save you UNTOLD time and anguish in the future!
This week on the road I recorded in the lobby of hotel in Nashville where I'm at a conference. I pulled a piece from the past -- the Brief History of Herbert E. Sargent, and what resilience meant to him, to our company, and I believe it applies to us all as individuals.
Tasha and Eric booted Herb out of the studio this week and continued on last week's description on strategic planning from 2021 -- our "envisioned future". There's an important safety topic included, several shout-outs, and the winner to the Phish concert in Bangor!
Eric Ritchie joins Herb in a return to Spacious Podcast Studio A to talk about parts of how we envision the future of Sargent -- the results of our Strategic Planning in 2021. Many great Shout-outs!
A very brief but heartfelt podcast, literally recorded on the road, in Justin Porter's truck as Tasha, Eric and I wrapped up a whirlwind Mid-Atlantic tour across three states! Great Shout-outs; Lynyrd Skynyrd concert ticket winner!
A few years ago we dropped the word "productivity" as something we needed to continuously improve because it doesn't address safety or quality. Instead, we started using "execution" as the action we needed to continually optimize, therefor including productivity, safety, and quality as the three major tenets comprising execution. Some safety talk, an ESOP question from Derek True, and quite a few shout-outs!
Adam joins us on the phone to talk about our Core Value:: Winning in the Field -- Amy Somes joins, as promised, to answer ESOP questions from Kendall Bickford and RJ Russell -- a light smattering of shout-outs as well!
Kevin Gordon and Pete Parizo join Herb to talk Workforce Advancement and the Core Value: Doing the Right Thing -- and what that means in an operational sense.
<__truncato_root__>
The BEST ESOP question yet dwarfs the other great content (hint: our Core Value -- Honing our Craft), plus great shout-outs and a couple important announcements!
Three takeaways -- (1) Discussing our Core Purpose; (2) Core Value -- Investing in People; (3) ESOP Value -- Price is Right for the True-up Bonus (did someone win TRIPLE?!?!); PLUS some great Shout-outs and the re-introduction of the Newton Grindle Award; Announcement -- Employee Referral Program. ENJOY!
Tasha and Eric take over Spacious Podcast Studio A this week and discuss workload, financial tips and resources available, the Price is Right for the 2021 Catch-up Bonus, Shout-outs, welcoming new employee-owners, and a couple important announcements. Listen Up!
Tasha and I talk about the principle of 'leavings things better than you found them', we discuss how Sargent became an ESOP, shout-outs, welcome new employee-owners!
A lot going on this week on the podcast! We start with a theme we're adopting this year: "You never have to recover from a strong start" -- and what this means to you. Amy joins Herb to talk about the ESOP valuation process to get you your statements. We're declaring May as Sargent ESOP month; Herb outlines a little history from Herb E's 1943 and 1953 journals; Shout-outs!
Who won $1,000 or part of it?!?!
Tasha is on with Josh Shaw and Arthur Herbest to announce our ESOP stock price, update on quarry and asphalt operations, and safety topic.
Sean Milligan calls into Spacious Podcast Studio A for some New Hampshire talk.
We give some history from Herb's journals in 1943, 1963 and 1983.
Then ------- Eric went crazy -- he offered a $1,000 pool for people who guessed the stock price EXACTLY. The prize will be divided among the winners in the even of multiple exact correct guesses.
But that's not all -- there are TWO big hints (actually six): (1) the stock price is over $100; (2) In the podcast we provided FIVE digits -- you have to listen to get them. Here's how to use them:
1 - Write all five of the digits down on a piece of paper.
2 - The 2021 stock price is five digits, including two decimals.
3 - One digit of the stock price is repeated.
4 - Because of that, you'll have to scratch out the one you don't think will be included.
5 - Take the remaining four, double the digit you think is repeated in the stock price, and rearrange them into your guess.
Good luck!
Bangor Operations Manager Jim Braley stops into Spacious Podcast Studio A with COO Eric Ritchie to talk about operations in the Bangor region; Safety Director Cam Haggar is in with a safety topic; Shout-outs; Important Announcements!
Welcome our new employee-owners! Eric Ritchie and Doug Morrison come in to discuss Southern Maine Ops with Herb; Jason Light comes in for critical cyber-security discussion; Shout-outs; Price is Right; Important Announcements!
Operations Manager Tim LePage has a massive workload in Northern Maine, and he stops into Spacious Podcast Studio A with COO Eric Ritchie to update the crew on what's going on, and what's coming down the pike. Mid-Atlantic Safety Specialist Justin Embrey is on with this week's Safety Topic; Shout-outs; Price is Right on K-Tec 1228 scraper.
Eric and Herb catch up with Mid-Atlantic Regional Manager Justin Porter for an update on the M-A's rocket-launch of a start to 2022; History from Herb E's journals from March 1963 and 1973; Shout-outs (finally......more!); Price is Right -- Single occupancy hotel rooms in 2021.
HAVE A SAFE WEEK WITH ZERO ACCIDENTS!!!!
Runaway inflation in general and extreme volatility at the gas pumps -- and Sargent's response to both -- are the subjects of a talk with Tasha, Eric and Herb in this very important episode for our employee-owners. Safety Specialist Arthur Herbest joins in for the bi-weekly safety topic; just a small smattering of shout-outs, and Price is Right on a set of tires for a 35-ton articulated truck.
On our 100th episode, COO Eric Ritchie invites Chief Estimator Pat Dubay on (he'd been BEGGING to join!) and they talk about all things estimating. Herb joins in with some history talk from Herb E.'s 1959 and 1969 journals, Price is Right, Shout-outs!
Enjoy!
Cam joins Herb in Spacious Podcast Studio A to discuss overarching philosophies on safety , how Cam's department fits in with the operations of the company, and what we think it takes to keep our employees and their equipment safe from harm. Shout-outs, Price is Right.
Thanks for listening!
The Workforce Advancement Team is busy this winter, and Kevin, Pete and Kendall sit in to discuss what's been going on, what's planned, and some philosophy around Workforce Advancement. Also, a smattering of shout-outs and ONE Winner on the Price is Right!
Herb and his wife, Tristine, are the 2022 campaign chairs for United Way and its CEO, Shirar Patterson stops in to THANK YOU ALL for your incredible generosity; a few Shout-outs; Several SPOT-ON winners of the Price is Right for the Thew Double-ought Shovel!
Herb talks with Business Development Director Glenn Adams about his many roles with the company, what's changed, and what's coming up; Lots of shout-outs (thank you!); Important Wellsteps announcement!
Herb is solo today in Podcast Studio B -- Responding to several requests for more historical content, Herb shares a draft foreward for the book about Herbert E. Sargent -- "Moving the Earth". Add in a couple shout-outs, the Price is Right for the McCloskey J50 Track Jaw Crusher, and a couple important announcements.
Kevin Gordon, Pete Parizo and Kendall Bickford took over Spacious Podcast Studio A this week to bring you all up to speed on what Sargent is doing on the workforce advancement front; Cam is in to discuss safety and the Supreme Court's stay (rejection) of OSHA's Emergency Temporary Standard requiring vaccines or testing for companies with more than 100 employees; Shout-outs; and a few announcements!
Build a Life With US video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VTSF8FNBSEY
We've mixed things up a little this week based on some podcast survey results requesting some of the company's historical achievements. I dug through Herb E.'s 1957 New Year's journal and found some good morsels! Also, Tim Richards is in to talk about equipment philosophies past and present as well as acquisitions planned for 2022.
Shout-outs are few, and there's no Price is Right this week but we'll get back on it next week!
Tasha and Eric join Herb to discuss Sargent's 2021 Strategic Plan with some context to 2018's Strategic Plan, and Safety Director Cam Haggar comes in to update us on the Vaccine Mandate's first deadline -- January 10th -- when we have to report everyone's COVID vaccination status and proof thereof. YOU SHOULD KNOW there are still legal challenges to the mandate and its eventual full implementation by February 10th.
“How about we create a place that’s high on trust, high on investing in people, and then we leverage the heck out of that?” ~ Wally Adamchik
AMEN!
Herb has Workforce Advancement's Pete Parizo on with Wally Adamchik from Firestarter Speaking and Consulting who discusses his philosophies on training, leadership leveraging those in conjunction with our amazing talent. While Wally's training this winter will be focused toward foremen, every employee-owner will benefit from listening to his message.
Cam joins for his weekly safety topic; SHOUT-OUTS!!!!; the Price is Right (annual cost of training), and TWO IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENTS from Amy Somes.
We continue our season recap with our other three regional operations managers, Jim Braley, Sean Milligan, and Justin Porter. We remain Herb-less this week, so Communications Director Emily Tadlock and COO Eric Ritchie hold down the podcast with a somewhat longer than normal episode that's packed full of shoutouts and kudos to several employee-owners.
Amy Somes
asomes@sargent.us
Kim Ryan
kryan@sargent.us
Heather Hutchinson
hhutchinson@sargent.us
Herb allowed Communications Director Emily Tadlock and COO Eric Ritchie to run things solo this week. Tim LePage and Doug Morrison joined the podcast to talk about all the work that's gone on in their regions this year and where we stand in closing things out and looking on to next year. We've got a safety topic with Cam Haggar, Price-Is-Right and Shoutouts!
PLEASE CHECK YOUR EMAILS FOR IMPORTANT INFORMATION REGARDING YOUR HEALTH BENEFITS.
Sargent's Group Benefits Plan is changing this year. Staff have been working diligently to work out a plan that is beneficial for our employee-owners and we finally have it!
Join us via Zoom on one of the following dates for the Sargent Benefits Workshop:
Wednesday, December 1st at 6 p.m.:
https://zoom.us/j/99318817334
Sunday, December 5th at 1 p.m.:
https://zoom.us/j/97966463565
HR Generalist Amy Somes will be joined by HR Manager Heather Briggs Hutchinson, CFO Tasha Gardner, Cross Insurance Representative Donna Power, President of FEDlogic Frank Cardenas, and Cigna Representative Fred Brewer. The webinar will last roughly an hour with a Q&A session at the end.
We strongly urge all employee-owners to join the webinar at least one of these two dates to learn about our new Group Benefits Plan. EVERYONE will have to participate in open enrollment this year and we want you to be prepared to make the best decision for you and your family. So, invite your spouse, your parents, or whoever helps you make those crucial decisions regarding your health.
For those of you who have never used zoom, here are two links to help you along:
How to download zoom on your computer and enter a meeting:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b0xEEvYnGfg
How to download zoom on your phone and enter a meeting:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ljbD3hnqyXU
These are two very simple videos that show people step by step how to download the app and enter a meeting. We strongly encourage folks to download the app BEFORE the day of the webinar in case you run in to any issues. That being said, if you have any trouble or need assistance downloading the app or getting into the meeting, please reach out to Communications Director Emily Tadlock:
etadlock@sargent.us
(207) 631-1335
Email Heather referenced for boot referrals: boots@sargent.us
Kevin Gordon, Kendall Bickford, and Pete Parizo join Herb & Emily to discuss the ever evolving and growing Workforce Development/Advancement programs taking place at Sargent.
Plus, Sargent's Group Benefits Plan is changing this year. Staff have been working diligently to work out a plan that is beneficial for our employee-owners and we finally have it!
Join us via Zoom on one of the following dates for the Sargent Benefits Workshop:
Wednesday, December 1st at 6 p.m.:
https://zoom.us/j/99318817334
Sunday, December 5th at 1 p.m.:
https://zoom.us/j/97966463565
HR Generalist Amy Somes will be joined by HR Manager Heather Briggs Hutchinson, CFO Tasha Gardner, Cross Insurance Representative Donna Power, President of FEDlogic Frank Cardenas, and Cigna Representative Fred Brewer. The webinar will last roughly an hour with a Q&A session at the end.
We strongly urge all employee-owners to join the webinar at least one of these two dates to learn about our new Group Benefits Plan. EVERYONE will have to participate in open enrollment this year and we want you to be prepared to make the best decision for you and your family. So, invite your spouse, your parents, or whoever helps you make those crucial decisions regarding your health.
For those of you who have never used zoom, here are two links to help you along:
How to download zoom on your computer and enter a meeting:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b0xEEvYnGfg
How to download zoom on your phone and enter a meeting:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ljbD3hnqyXU
These are two very simple videos that show people step by step how to download the app and enter a meeting. We strongly encourage folks to download the app BEFORE the day of the webinar in case you run in to any issues. That being said, if you have any trouble or need assistance downloading the app or getting into the meeting, please reach out to Communications Director Emily Tadlock:
etadlock@sargent.us
(207) 631-1335
CFO Tasha Gardner and COO Eric Ritchie join Herb and Emily in Podcast Studio A to talk about the season and what's going on at Sargent. Plus the Profit-Sharing bonus is announced!!
Virtual Benefits Workshop: Dec. 1 & Dec. 5
More information to come - please keep an eye out!!
On this special Veterans Day episode of On Track Podcast, Active Duty National Guardsman Jeff Shock joins Herb and Emily all the way from Africa. Plus, Veteran Gary Rollins stops by the studio & Veteran Jeff Marsh joins us by telephone from the Mid-Atlantic to talk about their military careers as well as their time at Sargent.
We want to take the time to thank all of our service men and women who have sacrificed so much for our country and especially those that work at this company. Your bravery does not go unnoticed.
It's also time to guess this year's Profit-Sharing Bonus!!! If you guess it exactly, you could win DOUBLE your bonus!! Get those guesses in!
It's National Project Management Day, so we thought we'd celebrate by inviting a few of our Project Managers on to the podcast. Cody Jean and Scott Bartlett join Herb and Emily to talk about their career. Plus we announce this year's ESOP Contest Winners!! And as always, there's also a Price-Is-Right winner!
Amy Somes: asomes@sargent.us
Sargent Field Engineer Alex Hardy hops on the podcast to discuss employee ownership. Plus, from outside the company, Foreman Virgil Bradbury from Emery Sapp & Sons join in to talk about his company's 20+ years as an ESOP and what it means to him. Amy Somes has another ESOP Vocabulary word for us this week. As always, there's a Price-Is-Right winner...is it you? Listen in!!
Foreman Dan McCall hops on the podcast with Herb & Emily to continue our talks on employee ownership for National ESOP Month. We've got a Price-Is-Right winner, plus Herb announces a random Newton Grindle Award winner in our shoutouts. Listen in to this week's episode!
Operator Devin Beane joins Herb and Emily in Studio A to talk about the ESOP. Amy Somes is in to talk about how our ESOP account balances are determined. Plus we have a Price-Is-Right winner and a safety topic.
Bryan Smart joins Herb and Emily from the Mid-Atlantic to talk ownership and what it means to him. Plus Amy Somes hops in to talk about ESOP distributions and what they are and who can collect them. As always we've got a safety topic, a Price-Is-Right winner, and shoutouts! Listen in!!
Amy Somes: asomes@sargent.us
CFO Tasha Gardner and COO Eric Ritchie join Herb to talk about how the season is shaping up so far. We're also kicking off National ESOP Month!!! We've got a FREE jacket coming your way along with a few other fun activities and contests! There's a new Price-Is-Right item this week and shoutouts.
President of BuildWitt, Dan Briscoe, joins Herb and Emily for a pre-recorded interview since Herb is spending his week in Nashville with Dan and other from the BuildWitt team. Many got this week's Price-Is-Right correct - meaning you could be a winner! Listen to find out!
Still not registered for Wellable? Reach out to Amy Somes asomes@sargent.us to get signed up!
What are the chances that THREE people win the Price-Is-Right? Well, judging by this week's outcome...we'd say the chances are pretty good! NH Project Manager Mason Lasselle joins us via phone to talk about coming to work for Sargent. Lots of COVID talk and what you can expect.
Questions about Wellable? Contact Amy Somes: asomes@sargent.us (207) 827-4435
Questions about updating your iPhone or iPad? Contact Jason Light: jlight@sargent.us (207) 944-0948
MLB Shortstop & Maine native Mike Bordick joins Herb and Emily to talk about mentorship and his baseball career. Glove use is our safety topic this week along with some COVID talk. There's a new Price-Is-Right winner and we take a moment of silence in remembrance of 9/11.
Mike Bordick Podcast: https://www.audible.com/pd/Podcast/B08JJR7D8S
Superintendent Ricky Powell joins Herb & Emily on this week's podcast to talk about what's going on in Virginia plus continuing discussions around mentoring. Plus we're dunking Herb & Cam this Friday - listen for how you can watch it all happen! National ESOP month is just around the corner - keep your eyes and ears open for contests and giveaways happening during the month of October.
Did we reach our goal of 300 responses to our safety quiz? Will we get a chance to dunk Herb & Cameron? You'll have to listen to find out!! And, while you're at it, hear from Chief Estimator Pat Dubay, learn the price of a CAT D1 and hear the new Price-Is-Right music that probably won't last for very long.....
Send in pictures to Emily Tadlock: etadlock@sargent.us or (207) 631-1335
Some of Sargents summer interns join Herb and Emily on this week's podcast to talk about their experience. Plus shoutouts and a Price-Is-Right Winner. And, new information will be printed on your paycheck! Listen in for more details!
Absent adult supervision from Emily this week, Herb fumbled his way through a recording (sorry for the background noise!) with Safety Director Cam Haggar. Listen to see how both Cam AND Herb might fall victim to the dunk tank! Price is Right, Shout-outs, and a couple announcements.
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37-year Sargent veteran Rick Clement joins Herb & Emily to talk about his career. Cam Haggar, Safety Director, talks about next week's Safe & Sound Week and what sort of goodies everyone will receive. And as always we've got shoutouts and a Price-Is-Right winner!
Eric & Tasha join Herb & Emily for a mid-season review. Hear how the company is looking 6 months in. Plus, a new adjustment in the COLA (Cost-of-Living Adjustment) - find out why and when you'll be getting a bump!
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Chris Milton and Gib Gagnon from Milton-CAT join Herb and Emily in spacious podcast studio A. Plus someone new has won a fire ring and Cornhole board set and someone else has won the Price-Is-Right...is it you? Listen to find out!
Shawn "Big Daddy" Newton joins Herb and Emily via phone for this week's episode to chat about finding your place, the ESOP and his nomination for an ESOP Scholarship. We've got Newton-Grindle award winners plus TWO Price-Is-Right winners and a new prize. You don't want to miss this episode!
The Chicken Man himself takes some time from retirement to sit down with Herb and Emily in Spacious Podcast Studio A to talk about his time as Sargent. There are three winners of this week's fire ring and Cornhole board shoutout giveaway plus a Price-Is-Right winner.
Herb and Emily sit down with first-season foreman Matt Coffin and second-season laborer Ben Watson to talk about what it's like being a new Sargent. There's a safety topic, Price-Is-Right winner and THREE fire ring winners this week! Listen to find out if it was you!
Mark Wright joins Herb & Emily to talk about his 30+ years with the company as well as share his knowledge of landfills and a few pranks he's pulled over the years. Plus Herb has upped the ante for shoutouts - you can now win a Cornhole board AND a Sargent fire ring. Listen in to find out how!
In this week's episode of On Track Podcast, Herb and Emily chat with Safety Director Cameron Haggar about how he came to be a Sargent. Two folks win the Newton-Grindle award getting their hands on brand new Sargent corn hole boards - send in a shoutout for your chance next week. Plus the Price-Is-Right was nice and tight - find out if you were this week's lucky guesser!
Scott Blanchard joins Herb and Emily to give a West Gardner project update, tell a few jokes and share some wisdom. Plus there's a Price-Is-Right winner, shoutouts and questions for Herb.
Did you know our new wellness app Wellable could be worth $1,200 to you? Find out how in this week's episode of On Track Podcast. HR Manager Heather Hutchinson and HR Generalist Amy Somes sit down with Herb and Emily to talk about how to use the new app and get the best benefit from it. Heather also talks about how you could earn $50 just from referring someone to work with us and how after they're hired that could translate into $1,000 in your pocket. Plus there's a Price-Is-Right winner, Shoutouts and Questions for Herb.
The Maine Section of American Society of Civil Engineers gave the state an overall grade of C- for its infrastructure. Hear from ASCE President and Transportation Engineer at WSP USA Dan Bouchard about the report. Maine Better Transportation Association Executive Director Maria Fuentes also hops on to give a behind the scenes take on advocating for state and federal infrastructure funding - funding WE need to do our jobs. There's also a safety topic, shoutouts and one very lucky Price-Is-Right winner this week!
You don't want to miss this episode and your chance at double your bonus. What bonus? Listen in to this week's episode to find out!
Herb and Emily are joined by Southern Maine Regional Ops Manager Doug Morrison and Superintendent Adam Tenan to talk about the Exit 45 Preload Project. They are also joined by special guests Peter Mills, Executive Director of the Maine Turnpike Authority and Ray Hanf, Transportation Department Manager at HNTB. This project was a tough one but a major success overall. Hear what they have to say about it in this week's episode of On-Track Podcast.
Herb and Emily get a chance to chat with Chief Surveyor Jeff Costello about his role in the company. Jeff talks about some new tools for surveying, a book he's just read and his hobby of wood working. As always Safety Director Cam Haggar has your safety topic. There's lots of shoutouts and a Price-Is-Right winner.
Brent Williams still has the energy after changing numerous diapers and not getting much sleep (all due to his newborn son) to join Herb and Emily in spacious podcast studio A for a discussion about his career, how he started working at Sargent and how he's helping the company look to the future. As always we've got a safety topic and a Price-Is-Right winner!
Communications Director Emily Tadlock puts her interview skills to work this week as she gets Herb out of his comfort zone talking about the one thing he doesn't like to talk about...himself. Find out what made Herb get into construction, how he got into a load of...human waste and his favorite beer. As always there's a safety topic and Price-Is-Right winner!
Herb & Emily sit down with Eric Gifford and Red Rancourt to discuss the status of winter maintenance and current fabrication schedules. It's a busy shop but these guys help keep it all running smoothly. As always we have a safety topic and Price-Is-Right winner!
CFO Tasha Gardner and COO Eric Ritchie join Herb and Emily to announce Sargent's new stock price. Our partner, Senior Associate Nate Dykes from Chartwell also joins in to explain how each employee is essential in bringing value to the company. There were lots of Price-Is-Right guesses but there can only be ONE winner and this winner gets an extra special prize. This is an episode you don't want to miss!
Week three that Regional Ops Manager are joining Herb and Emily to discuss what projects they are rounding out and what projects they are looking to start as the summer season rolls closer. This week, COO Eric Ritchie, New Hampshire Regional Ops Manager Sean Milligan and Mid Atlantic Ops Manager Justin Porter discuss what's to come. Safety Director Cameron Haggar has this week's safety topic. And as always we have shoutouts and Price-Is-Right. Plus - we've got a special request for next week - listen to find out!!
Week two that Regional Ops Manager are joining Herb and Emily to discuss what projects they are rounding out and what projects they are looking to start as the summer season rolls closer. This week, COO Eric Ritchie, Southern Maine Regional Ops Manager Doug Morrison and General Manager of Sargent Hot Mix Asphalt & Aggregate Operations Josh Shaw discuss what's to come. Safety Director Cameron Haggar has this week's safety topic. And as always we have shoutouts and Price-Is-Right is a little different this week. Listen to find out how.
For the next couple of weeks Regional Ops Manager will be joining Herb and Emily to discuss what projects they are rounding out and what projects they are looking to start as the summer season rolls closer. This week, COO Eric Ritchie, Northern Maine Regional Ops Manager Tim LePage and Bangor Regional Ops Manager Jim Braley discuss what's to come. New Safety Director Cameron Haggar has this week's safety topic. And as always we have shoutouts and a Price-Is-Right winner.
We officially kicked Herb off the podcast this week (despite his requests for honorary "womanship"). Emily surrounds herself with many of the ladies in the company including a recent retiree who spent 37 years as a Sargent. Katrina Morgan sure has a lot of stories to tell. As always, we also have a safety topic this week, shout-outs and two Price-Is-Right winners. Was it you? Listen and find out!
Straight out of high school Hunter Proffitt joined Sargent as a laborer and now at just 21-years-old he's worked his way up to Junior Foreman. All three of Sargent's safety staff, including our new Safety Director Cameron Haggar, hop on to talk recordables. Plus there's fun new lightening round of questions, our typical shout-outs and Price-Is-Right. Take a listen!
UMaine CET Professor Will Manion and Foreman Curtis Breau join Herb and Emily this week to discuss internships and what they can do for college students looking to break into the industry. Sargent safety extraordinaire Arthur Herbest joins as well as CFO Tasha Gardner to help break down this week's Price-Is-Right.
Emily fills Studio A this week with Keigan Quimby, Kevin Gordon, Arthur Herbest and via Teams, Herb to discuss Sargent Construction Academy and career development. Silica is our safety topic this week and there's an all new winner for the Price-Is-Right, could you guess the winning cost next week?
Project Managers Craig Shorey and Pete Parizo join Herb and Emily this week to discuss their ongoing training, their jobs and what it means to be a PM at Sargent. Arthur Herbest chimes in for this week's safety topic, shoutouts and Price-Is-Right.
Tim Blais has been a Sargent for 20+ years and now, his son Jacson has joined the team. Right out of high school, Jacson took part in Sargent Construction Academy and after a brief time, he's been promoted to Junior Foreman with no student debt and great benefits. You don't want to miss this one!
With Herb and Emily gone for the week, Eric Ritchie and Tasha Gardner step in to Studio A and grab a mic to interview Superintendent Keith Edgecomb. Lots of laughs, some shoutouts, a Price-Is-Right winner and a safety topic are all part of this special episode.
Herb and Emily spoke with Madeline Harvey a young laborer from New Hampshire and Dan Mosholder a dozer operator in the Mid-Atlantic. Arthur Herbest joined in as well for some safety talk. Plus, lots of shout-outs and a winner is named in Price-Is-Right.
Herb and Emily chat with Matt Thibault and John Madigan about their current jobs, careers and strategic planning for Sargent. We have lots of shout outs and a new Price is Right!
New Communications Director Emily Tadlock (formerly WABI Channel 5 News Anchor) joins us on the first podcast of 2021. Learn about Emily's career, her background, and her passion for telling stories -- and how she plans to approach communications within Sargent and outside the company as well. Tasha and Eric sit in as well.
Tasha and Eric joined me in Spacious Podcast Studio A in what was intended to be a "year in reviews", but as I pored through my diary there were so many "firsts" we decided to deviate from plan a little -- definitely NOT a first for us!
Tasha and Eric join me again in Spacious Podcast Studio A and there's just something about these two that make podcasts run REALLY long! But they're worth the listen and I'm beyond grateful to have them on. Bid results, Promotions, Safety Topic, Shout-outs, Price is Right and more announcements!
Just a brief podcast today to say THANK YOU, and to let you know we intend to find NEW ways to take action to show our gratitude for all you do!
Heather, Amy and Derek take over Spacious Podcast Studio A this week to bring important information about benefits to you and/or your significant other. PLUS -- as always, SHOUT-OUTS!
A brief, pre-Thanksgiving podcast to announce the Price is Right winner of the 2020 Profit-sharing Bonus. If you guess the bonus to the dollar, you'll get a 30% bump in your bonus!
Eric Ritchie joins me in Spacious Podcast Studio A to talk about what makes "good plans" succeed vs "perfect plans"; more COVID talk; Shout-outs; Price is Right Winner; NEW Price is Right Challenge for a 30% bump in your Profit-Sharing bonus!
Fuzzy wanders out of retirement for an hour or so to visit Spacious Podcast Studio A and level his wisdom and insight. Safety topic, Shout-outs, Price is Right! Enjoy!
Great show!!!Tasha and I get a chance to speak with our directors, former CFO George Thomas and Emery Sapp & Sons CFO Keith Bennett, plus NEW RULES regarding COVID-19, Shout-outs, Price is Right, ESOP contest winners, and MORE!!!
Kevin Gordon joins me in the welcome confines of Spacious Podcast Studio A and we discuss how to take the mystery out of LEADERSHIP, followed by Slip & Fall safety talk, LOTS of great shout-outs, Price is Right, and some Special Announcements.
During my Mid-Atlantic visit, Justin Porter and I set up Spacious Podcast Studio B in the Ashland office and gave phone calls to Chris Powell in Rougement, NC and Pat Smith in Caribou, Maine. A very good conversation with two great employee-owners! A resurgence in SHOUT-OUTS, Price is Right, and the ESOP Month T-Shirt challenge!
Red and Tim visited with me this week to talk about a number of different topics, including Red's fab shop crew, Shout-outs, the Newton-Grindle Award, and ESOP talk. Enjoy!
Tasha and I talk about how we want to create (and keep) a strong Financial and Executional Margin of Safety in the company as we see questions ahead. We discuss how the universe naturally slides toward disorder, it takes energy to prevent that disorder. Also, Shout-outs, Price is Right, and Special Announcements with HR Manager Heather Hutchinson. Enjoy!
Tasha and Eric bring Ops Manager Doug Morrison into Spacious Podcast Studio A for a conversation with Shawn Powell and Jake Stevens. More "That Guy" recognition for Jim Legasse and Pete Williams, more shout-outs, more corn-toss games, Price is Right, and more special announcements!
Pete Joins me in the studio while Adam and Matt call in; a quick phone call with Josh Shaw of Sargent Materials, Shout-outs, Safety, Bernard Lupini is "That Guy", Price is Right, and more!
Today we introduced our new branding effort along with our new website, and Tasha, Eric, Justin and I discuss in general where we stand as a company, we introduce Aaron Leighton and Clayton White as "That Guy" recipients, DOZENS of shout-outs, and Price is Right winner!
Benefits Administrator Amy Somes joins Tasha and me as we have dozens of shout-outs, Price is Right results, shout-out corn-toss winners, and more announcements!
Today Tasha and I are joined by Bob Shaw and Kevin Adams, two gents whose support make SO MUCh possible for our company. They take the "Mike to the Company" and you'll want to hear what they have to say! Safety, Shout-outs, and a SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT.
Eric Ritchie and Justin Porter join me this week. Justin does a quick bid calendar review, then Eric and Justin discuss their regions briefly before we call on PM's John Schofield (New Hampshire) and Travis Ridky (Mid-Atlantic). A brief but important Safety topic, great shout-outs, and Price is Right winner rounds out the show.
Last week Tasha and Eric took advantage of my absence and leveled a bold challenge: MAKE OURS THE MOST LISTENED -TO PODCAST. They are sixteenth on downloads/listens (yes, behind Bob Nielander) with the longest podcast to date. However, in spite of this showing, I'm not giving up on them -- there is talent to be discovered there yet.
The Stillwater Estimating Team of Pat Dubay, Mike Thibodeau, and Dave Preble talk about estimating; Brief safety update; Price is Right results.
CFO Tasha Gardner and VP Ops NE Eric Ritchie take the mikes this week, joined by Superintendent Ian McCarthy and Senior PM Glenn Adams to discuss the Portland Back Cove CSO Project. They touch on Safety, Shout-outs, and the Price is Right, and a special announcement.
Craig Shorey sits in with me to briefly discuss his career, and his role as a project manager, followed by brief safety discussion, shout-outs, and Price is Right!
Aaron Witt has built an international influence in the construction and mining world, and this week he visited Stillwater and took time to sit down with me and give his thoughts on"The DIrt World". Safety & Training Director Adam Kasprzak sits down for some safety talk; Shout-outs; Price is Right!
In this episode with former VP Ops Dick Martin and Business Development Manager Steve Perry we talk about how they got noticed and what they did next to advance their careers (plus a few old "war stories"), a brief safety topic or two; shout-outs; and finally, the Price is Right winner!
I asked who you wanted on the podcast, you told me, so here they are: Excavator operator Ken Thurlow, dozer operator James Burnette, and equipment service master Bob Neilander. We round the show out with Bid Calendar update, 7:1 Initiative as a safety topic, Shout-outs, and The Price is Right.
Longtime superintendent and operations manager-turned Workforce Advancement Director Kevin Gordon sits down with me today to discuss how he finds his advancement targets, what they need to show, and how he pivoted from Sargent Construction Academy to evolve our approach to advancing our employee-owners.
This week VP Ops NE Eric Ritchie and I sit down with Sargent Materials General Manager Josh Shaw, who explains some of the major changes and focuses of Sargent Materials, whose impact last year on the company's overall financials and stock price was phenomenal. We follow up with the 7:1 Initiative as a safety topic, and wrap up with shout-outs and The Price is Right Winner for a Cat 988K Loader.
This week I sat down with VP Ops NE Eric Ritchie and Ops Manager Tim LePage to get an update on Northern Maine operations. We gave calls to superintendents Chris Lynch in Rumford and Peter Broberg in Caribou, hit a couple safety topics, rolled in some shout-outs, announced a winner for the Price is Right on an L90 loader, and issued a THANK YOU to the families of our employee-owners.
After a quick review of the Bid Calendar, I introduce a part of the equipment department with interviews of Tim Richards, Eric Gifford, and Will Belanger. We move on to a quick safety report, a TON of shout-outs, and end with the guessing game!
Tasha Gardner, Eric Ritchie and Jim Braley (Bangor Area Manager) join me for as we swing back north to New England. Eric updates on the bid calendar, New England baacklog; Tasha gives an ESOP update; Jim updates on work around Bangor, and we give Doug Barnes a phone call at the Juniper Ridge Landfill in Old Town. Puncutated by a quick safety report and a few dozen shout-outs!
Unable to travel to our Mid-Atlantic operation, I decided to change up the format (again!) and catch up with several of Regional Manager Justin Porter's crew by phone, including a bidding report with Estimator Aaron Tidd, field reports from Superintendents Ricky Powell and Dale Louk, and a report from HR/Safety Specialist Justin Embrey. Many shout-outs from the field are included as well!
In this episode we announce the Cat 336 price winner, touch lightly on this past week's brutal bidding results (we were second on FOUR projects!), touch on safety, and cover a few great shout-outs, or what I now call "Rainmakers".
Tasha and I are joined by our controller, Carey Sheehan, I take to the road to cath up with NH Ops Manager Sean Milligan and Supervisor Kendall Bickford in Portsmouth, a quick safety update, and a LOT of great shout-outs as we celebrate Tory Harvey's successful 38-hour shutdown at the Portland Jetport last weekend.
In this episode I visit our West Gardiner project and get an update from Superintendent Scott Blanchard and Operations Manager Doug Morrison. Also, updates on estimating, safety, and shout-outs.
I review the bid calendar, then talk with Eric Ritchie, Tim Richards, and Kevin Gordon about everything from new equipment purchases to mentoring to a contest on what a new Cat 330 excavator costs.
Tasha, Eric, Justin and I discuss what we see post-COVID-19, Cost-of-living Allowance, Profit-sharing Catch-up bonus, shout-outs, the Stock Price and the winners of the Stock Price Game!
In this episode, we introduce Pat Dubay, our Chief Estimator. Also, VP Ops New England Eric Ritchie introduces Northern Maine Operations Manager Tim LePage, who discusses his current project workload.
I'm working alone today on this one, quarantined at home due to a moderate illness, but I'm playing by the rules! Some have requested some historical episodes, so I run down Herb E's history quickly, from his birth to his passing and beyond. Also, my favorite part as always -- the shout-outs!
This episode features Eric Ritchie (VP Operations, New England) and Justin Porter (Mid-Atlantic Regional Manager), updating on COVID-19 and its impacts; how the company is responding; and the workload we have in front of us.
CFO Tasha Gardner and I (Herb Sargent) discuss the COVID-19 pandemic, its effect on the company, our employees' 401(k) and the company.