FEBRUARY 2026
February may be the shortest month, but we’re still laying the groundwork for big things ahead. With Valentine’s Day coming up, it is the perfect time to recognize the strong foundations, solid partnerships, and teamwork that keeps us standing strong. Thanks for showing up each day and proving that what we build together is something to love.
This newsletter is our way of keeping everyone connected. Through sharing updates, celebrating wins, and highlighting people and projects that make our work possible. If you have something you’d like to feature, a story to share, or an idea for future content, I’d love to hear from you. Your feedback helps me build a better newsletter, so don’t hesitate to send your thoughts my way!
Emily Nietzel | Marketing Coordinator enietzel@dondlinger.build
NEW EMPLOYEES
There is a reason that Dondlinger Construction is a leader in the construction industry. It’s our people. We rely on the leadership, expertise, and drive of our employees to create the many bridges, highways, buildings and structures that are part of the Kansas skyline. Each employee at Dondlinger plays a key role in the success of this company.
Jesus Martinez-Hernandez Carpenter
Jesus Martinez-Mata Carpenter
Ruben Rojas-Galan Carpenter
Brady Oligschlaeger Field Engineer
Jaxon Powers Field Engineer
Susie Navarette HR Administrator
Isaiah Atayde Laborer
Joshua Brambila Laborer
Trendon Brehon Laborer
Corben Burgess Laborer
Juan Castillo Laborer
Judson Cheatham Laborer
Antwone Edwards Laborer
Edwin Esquivel Laborer
Kevin Gonzalez-Enriquez Laborer
Tyler Johnson Laborer
Coby Smarsh Laborer
Ethan Talent Laborer
Jesus Tineco Laborer
Trenton Wilden Laborer
Keenean Wood Laborer
Jason Atayde Operator
Braxton Creed Pre-Engineered Metal Building
CONGRATS TO OUR EMPLOYEE OF THE QUARTER DERRICK WHILLOCK
Derrick has been a dedicated, hardworking, and loyal employee for 15 years. This recognition is more than deserved!
REASONS TO CELEBRATE
FEBRUARY BIRTHDAYS
Jacob Eisenmann 2/1
Dorryen Wilson-Lewis 2/4
Whitney Schweninger 2/7
Christy Arneson 2/9
Eric Swenson 2/10
Sael Urbina Escobar 2/10
Joshua Buebe 2/11
Zach Root 2/11
Corbin Ross 2/11
Quinten Carlson 2/16
Douglas Bates 2/17
Kevin Ignowski 2/18
Melissa Titus 2/18
Crystal Dreiling 2/19
Jeremy Kohlmeier 2/19
Brady McIntire 2/20
Elijah Anderson 2/22
Braeden Helms 2/22
Jose Ocampo 2/22
Trenton Ferguson 2/23
Jose Garcia 2/24
Rodrigo Rueda 2/24
Valentine’s Day February 14th
President’s Day February 16th
BUILT ON SAFETY
Dondlinger was recognized for our dedication to safety by KCA! Keep up the good work and as always, safety first!
OWNERSHIP O U T L
Working for Dondlinger comes with an unique perk - employee ownership. Through our ESOP, employees don’t just work here, they have a stake in the company’s success.
Being an employee owner means that your daily efforts help shape the value of the company.
Ownership isn’t just about retirement benefits, it’s about mindset. Employee owners tend to think long term, take pride in their work, and look for ways to improve processes, safety, and teamwork.
One of the most powerful parts of an ESOP is that it rewards commitment and longevity. The longer you’re here, the more opportunity you have to build value in your account while contributing to something bigger than yourself.
As an employee owner, you share in both responsibility and the reward.
Did you know?
Employee owned companies often experience higher employee engagement and longer employee tenure compared to non-ESOP companies.
NEW FACES & FAMILIAR ROLES
HR Director, Diane Burris sets the standard for our people operations with a mix of seasoned experience, support, and a true “here to help” approach. She guides and strengthens the HR team and works closely with supervisors to solve issues quickly and fairly. Diane ensures we stay compliant with all employment laws, and keeps our policies updated and practical. She oversees performance reviews, employee relations, discipline, investigations, and dispute resolution; always focusing on fair, timely solutions. Diane also collaborates with IT and Marketing to help promote and strengthen our company culture. As Dondlinger’s EEO Officer, she protects equal opportunity and is a trusted resource for employees and managers alike. Additionally, beginning in 2026, employee benefits will also transition under her leadership, expanding her role even further in supporting our company and its workforce.
Diane Burris Director of Human Resources
David Dellinger HR Business Partner
As Dondlinger Construction’s Human Resources Business Partner, David Dellinger plays a key role in growing and strengthening our workforce. David created and now manages a robust multi-layered talent pipeline that fuels both immediate hiring needs and long-term workforce development. He oversees our applicant tracking system, leads sourcing efforts, and manages hiring for all trade positions— including negotiating with new talent to bring skilled workers onto the team. David also drives our workforce development initiatives, manages the Dondlinger Internship Program, and partners with local schools and training programs to help shape curriculum that aligns with real industry needs. His involvement on multiple Career & Technical Education advisory boards helps ensure the next generation of workers is well prepared for success in our field.
Welcoming...
Susie Navarette
HR Administrator
Fun Facts: Collects fairies
3 kids and 3 step-kids
3 Pomeranians
280-gallon saltwater fish tank
Matt Benton
Susie Navarette is the newest member of the HR Team. As HR Administrator, she is often the first friendly face (and voice!) that new employees meet. Under the direction of the HR Director, Susie helps bridge communication by providing Spanish translation during conversations, interviews, and meetings, making sure everyone feels heard and understood. Susie gets new hires set up with their paperwork, keeps pre employment steps running smoothly, and jumps in wherever needed during orientations and company events. She also tackles the everyday behind the scenes work—like filing, data entry, and coordinating assessments—that keeps our HR team moving and Diane supported administratively. Whether she is helping with employee questions or assisting HR leadership with projects or investigations, Susie brings a helpful, reliable, and upbeat presence to the team.
Our Recruiting Coordinator, Matt Benton, plays a crucial role in helping new talent find their way to Dondlinger. Under the direction of the HRBP, he supports full cycle recruiting by coordinating and conducting interviews with hiring managers, actively searching for qualified candidates through our ATS, job boards, referrals, and other platforms, and keeping everything organized behind the scenes with accurate records and documentation. Matt also assists with background checks, references, and technical assessments, and helps guide new hires through pre onboarding so they are set up for success from day one. Matt, along with David, will continue to represent the company at local job fairs. His steady support and attention to detail help keep our hiring process running smoothly from start to finish.
Recruiting Coordinator
Fun Facts: From Indiana
Pitched for Friends University
Has visited 40 of the 50 states
Was a 13 pound 9 ounce baby
FROM THE VAULT
18 years ago, Dondlinger was staying busy! We were in the thick of Intrust Bank Arena, dong some work in Little Rock, Arkansas and winning awards for three different projects, one being the infamous Keeper of the Plains!
National News in February 2008:
Super Bowl XLII; New York Giants win 17-14 over the previously undefeated New England Patriots President George W. Bush was in office Space Shuttle Atlantis successfully launches and completes mission
The Iraq War was still underway It was a leap year! There were 29 days in February 2008
LARKSFIELD L A N D I
Dondlinger broke ground at Larskfield and we got right to work. The first phase involves adding a new parking lot containing 134 parking stalls. Once the parking lot is completed, demolition of existing surface parking and covered parking will commence. This will make way for a new 48-unit independent living apartment building. The building will be 4 stories with the first story being a parking garage with 74 parking stalls. The project is expected to be completed by Q3 2027.
Project Manager | Jim Milligan
Assistant Project Manager | Brent Fischer
Superintendent | Tanner Scott
85 YEARS A G C
The Associated General Contractors of Kansas (AGC) serves as the Chamber of Commerce for the construction industry. With more than 275 member firms representing nearly 9,000 employees, AGC Kansas supports both business growth and career development across the industry. Membership comes with a wide range of benefits, including programs, products, and services designed
to keep members informed, connected, and competitive. AGC Kansas also offers valuable resources to help reshape the perception of construction careers, attract the next generation of skilled workers, and strengthen workforce development statewide.
Dondlinger was recognized for a major milestone of 85 years as a member of the AGC!
South Central Regional Mental Health Hospital - Wichita, KS
TCC-2500 crane lifting a 25,000lb unit onto the hospital.
50 ton Boom-truck setting pre-cast walls.
GARDEN PLAIN P
Although the temperatures are low now, get ready to make a slash in Garden Plain come July! WATCH HERE
Project Manager | Zach Newell
Superintendent | Pete Chaves
PROJECT S P O T L I
THGMeet Lindsey Kernodle -
She creates public art that turns everyday spaces into places of color, curiosity, and connection. She made her mark on the Delano Transit Hub that Dondlinger has been working on. She believes that art is an invitation. To think new thoughts, to enjoy our surroundings a little more, and to feel part of a community. Collaboration fuels her practice, and she’s constantly inspired by the artists she works alongside.
She has brought the history of Wichita into a space that is going to be a gathering space for all different kinds of people in the community.
Project
Superintendent
BUILT TO BREAK RECORDS
In December, Dondlinger alongside Wildcat was awarded a $287.97 million contract for the reconstruction of U.S.54 and K-94 in Sedgwick and Butler County.
This goes in the books as the largest KDOT project in dollars in the state of Kansas!
Construction is set to start in March of 2026 and will be about a 4 year long job. This unique job will consist of:
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C LD WEATHER
Cold weather hazards like hypothermia, frostbite, and slips/ falls can be fatal. Key precautions include layering clothing (moisture-wicking base, insulating middle, wind/waterproof outer layer), covering extremities, staying hydrated with warm, noncaffeinated drinks, and taking frequent breaks in warm areas. Use the buddy system to monitor for signs of cold stress.
Cold Weather Safety Checklist:
Dress in Layers: Wear at least three layers of loose-fitting clothing to trap warm air. Keep spare dry clothes, socks, and gloves on hand.
Protect Extremities: Wear insulated, waterproof boots, a warm hat, and a mask to cover the face and mouth to prevent frostbite on fingers, toes, nose, and ears.
My job provides the paycheck, but safety takes me home.
Recognize Cold Stress Symptoms:
Frostbite: White/gray, waxy, or numb skin.
Hypothermia: Uncontrollable shivering, slurred speech, confusion, or clumsiness.
Stay Hydrated & Fueled: Drink warm, sweet, non-caffeinated fluids to maintain body temperature. Avoid alcohol and nicotine, which increase heat loss.
Move Safely: Watch for ice, snow, and mud. Take small, careful steps to avoid slips and falls.
Check Equipment: Allow machinery to warm up and check for frozen components. Avoid touching metal surfaces with bare skin.
Monitor Each Other: Pair up to watch for signs of cold stress in coworkers. What to Do in an Emergency
If someone shows signs of severe cold stress, move them to a warm, dry area, replace wet clothing, and call for medical help immediately.
SITES FROM THE SKY...
Discount
or
FREE PASSES
To these locations:
Reach out to Tawny Vo if interested!
You and your family are eligible for discounts such as: 35% off Accessories, 22% off NonUnlimited Data Plans, $5 off Unlimited Plans with Auto Pay, and additional discounts available for first responders, teachers and other eligible groups.
You
earn up to $1,000 for every person you refer who is
Contact HR for more details!
