Project Manager Tom Waters is celebrating his 35th anniversary at Alberici this month. In honor of this milestone, we asked Tom to share some thoughts, experiences and advice.
1. In your time at Alberici, which project was your favorite and why?
When I was in junior high, there was news about the building of a new lock & dam in my hometown of Alton, IL. I said to myself that I wanted to build that lock & dam someday. Eight years later, after graduating high school and college, I was hired by J.S. Alberici Construction Co. and assigned to the lock & dam project. It was a dream come true and everyone from my hometown could see that I worked for this huge construction company with all this brand new red and white equipment on display in the middle of the Mississippi River. I was proud then, and I still am 35 years later.
2. What are you most proud of in your time at Alberici and why?
I am proud to say that I have worked for one great company for 35 years. Working for one company for your entire career is rare and reflects loyalty from both sides.
3. What do you like most about working at Alberici?
I appreciate the dedication of the people that work at Alberici and the strong reputation that we have approaching 100 years old.
4. How has the construction industry changed since you started?
Mainly, technology has changed. Imagine being on a jobsite with no cell phones, no computers, no emails, no electronic documents and using real carbon paper for copies.
5. What piece of advice would you give to someone just starting in the construction industry?
• Safety First, there is always a safe way to perform the work
• Remember that you always represent Alberici in your actions and your words
• Be Humble
• Be a Problem Solver
• Be Honest
• Be Fair
• Always look for efficiencies in everything
• Read and understand the contracts (Owner Contracts, Subcontracts and Labor Contracts)
6. In your career, you’ve worked in many different industries, how has this diverse experience helped you?
I have always told people that I have been on many “once in a lifetime jobs” (lock & dam, car plants, St. Louis football stadium, hospitals, water treatment plant and nuclear plant). I have been fortunate to work with a large company that is so diverse and has given me all this experience. The diversity helps keep me motivated and makes me still feel like a kid. It is neat to drive around St. Louis and point out to friends that Alberici built that.