Schmitt Happens

SCHMITT HAPPENS

A Petticoat-Schmitt Publication

WE HAVE A NEW LOOK!

Petticoat-Schmitt recently embarked on a brand evolution. Our new logo symbolizes our evolution and commitment to continuous improvement and maintains the essence of the original, ensuring consistency and familiarity with who we are. This more sophisticated look symbolizes our commitment to excellence in everything we do.

As CEO, Ryan Schmitt had a vision for Petticoat-Schmitt: to build life-changing infrastructure and disrupt the construction industry. As we approach our 17th year, we’re ready for the next milestones of our company: our commitment to ELEVATE20, our upcoming office renovation and expansion, and our transition to being an employee-owned company.

We are excited to step into this new chapter and are ready to shape the future while holding on to our foundational principles.

“Petticoat-Schmitt’s transition to an Employee-Owned company (ESOP) marks a new chapter in our commitment to our people. As an employee-owned company, we believe that when employees have a stake in ownership, they also have a stake in project outcomes. This shift empowers our team, enhances our internal culture, and strengthens our external relationships. We’re proud to foster a work environment where every employee feels valued and invested in the company’s success. Our new brand evolution reflects these core values positioning us for sustained growth and success in the competitive civil construction industry. At Petticoat-Schmitt, it’s all about people first.”

— Brandi Manning, Director of Team Development Petticoat-Schmitt

Exciting News: Petticoat-Schmitt is Now Employee-Owned!

We’re thrilled to share a big milestone: Petticoat-Schmitt is now an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) company! Here’s why this is fantastic news for our clients and our employees:

Boosted Motivation and Performance

Imagine a team where everyone has a stake in the game. Our employees are now co-owners, driving their commitment to deliver top-notch quality. This means more attention to detail, creative solutions, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

Top-Notch Customer Service

When you own something, you care more. That’s the spirit driving our employee-owners to go above and beyond. Expect an elevated customer service experience with a team dedicated to exceeding your expectations.

Consistency You Can Count On

ESOP companies enjoy lower employee turnover. For you, this means long-term relationships with seasoned professionals who understand your needs. Continuity and expertise are our promise.

Efficiency and Innovation

Studies show employee-owned companies are more productive. This efficiency translates to faster project execution and potentially lower costs for you. Plus, with a culture of continuous improvement, our team is always innovating to solve your toughest challenges.

Quality You Can Trust

Our employees’ financial success is tied to the company’s performance, driving a focus on quality. You can trust that we’re committed to maintaining the highest standards in every project.

Reputation and Reliability

Employee-owned firms are often seen as more trustworthy. Our ESOP structure reinforces our commitment to integrity, making us a reliable partner for all your construction needs.

By partnering with Petticoat-Schmitt, you’re not just hiring a contractor; you’re collaborating with a team of dedicated owners. Here’s to building the future together, with enhanced commitment, stability, and unparalleled service.

Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to elevate our standards and deliver exceptional results.

“I’m excited about this major milestone in the history of Petticoat-Schmitt. After years of deliberating the proper path for our future, it became very apparent that employee ownership through an ESOP was the only way to go. Our People-First culture, financial transparency, and profit-sharing give us the right foundation. This transition is all about the legacy of Petticoat-Schmitt, creating opportunities for our current and future employees by sharing the rewards of financial success. On a personal note, with no plans to step away or slow down anytime soon, I am even more excited to grow and improve the company as a partner with our employee-owners!”

— Ryan Schmitt, CEO Petticoat-Schmitt

Impact of on Construction Management

In the construction industry, where challenges such as inefficiency and slow innovation are common, we at Petticoat-Schmitt have developed the ELEVATE20 Project Delivery System. This approach is designed not just to manage but to significantly improve project outcomes through a comprehensive, people-first strategy.

A Focus on People: The Foundation of ELEVATE20

The ELEVATE20 system is grounded in the belief that prioritizing the well-being and development of our team leads directly to better project results. By implementing comprehensive employee onboarding and continuous training programs, we create a safe and respectful work environment. This emphasis on team welfare translates into higher job satisfaction and engagement, which are crucial for maintaining high standards of workmanship and efficiency on projects.

Planning and Communication as Pillars of Success

Our approach includes thorough planning and proactive communication, starting with detailed E20 kick-off meetings that clarify job specifics and project objectives. This careful planning, combined with our use of TAKT planning methods, helps minimize project risks and creates predictability for project timelines and budgets. Such structured planning ensures that we can meet project demands efficiently and effectively.

Quality Control and Accountability in ELEVATE20

In our system, quality control and accountability are key. We employ detailed checklists and project-specific quality plans that standardize processes and minimize uncertainties. This focus on quality control is not just about adhering to standards, but ensuring that every project component is executed correctly thus reducing the need for rework and saving resources.

Data-Driven Insights and Improvements

Our data-driven approach allows us to continuously refine and improve our processes. By analyzing historical data and conducting time-studies, we identify areas for improvement and implement changes that increase efficiency. For instance, resolving a bottleneck in a public works project increased throughput by 333%, a clear example of how targeted adjustments can significantly enhance project delivery.

Continuous Feedback for System Evolution

Feedback is a vital part of ELEVATE20. We actively seek input from all project stakeholders to refine and adapt our processes continually. This feedback loop helps us stay responsive to the needs of the project and ensures that our practices are always aligned with current industry standards and client expectations.

In summary, the ELEVATE20 system by Petticoat-Schmitt is more than just a method of project delivery; it is a comprehensive approach to construction management that emphasizes people, planning, and performance. By fostering a supportive environment and continuously leveraging data for improvement, ELEVATE20 aims to set new benchmarks in the industry, ensuring projects are not only completed on time and within budget but also exceed expectations in quality and efficiency.

Brandi Manning Director of Team Development

Brandi Manning, a valued member of the Petticoat-Schmitt team since 2018, has recently been promoted to the role of Director of Team Development, underscoring the company’s dedication to cultivating a thriving workplace environment. Manning’s journey within the company, spanning across departments such as human resources and operations, uniquely positions her to lead strategic initiatives centered on recruitment and retention. With her expanded responsibilities, Manning will play a pivotal role in ensuring the seamless integration of new team members and the ongoing development of existing staff, further solidifying Petticoat-Schmitt’s reputation as a leader in water resources, public works, and site development projects. President and COO Lauren Atwell expressed confidence in Manning’s leadership capabilities, emphasizing her track record of fostering collaboration and excellence. Manning’s promotion signals a commitment to nurturing internal talent and sustaining a culture of growth within the organization.

Ronique Gibson,

LEED AP Business Development Coordinator

Ronique Gibson, LEED AP, joins the ranks of Petticoat-Schmitt, marking a significant stride in the company’s mission to expand its footprint in the construction industry. With a distinguished career spanning over 25 years in the A/E/C realm, Ronique assumes the newly crafted position of Business Development Coordinator. Armed with her architectural degree from Tuskegee University and a wealth of expertise in project coordination and marketing, Ronique is poised to spearhead initiatives aimed at propelling business growth in Jacksonville and its neighboring regions. This appointment reflects Petticoat-Schmitt’s unwavering commitment to innovation and client-centric solutions, further solidifying its reputation as a trailblazer in crafting transformative infrastructure. President and COO Lauren Atwell expressed eagerness about Ronique’s arrival, anticipating her contributions to enhance the company’s capabilities and advance its goal of delivering unparalleled service in heavy civil construction.

Charles Tofferi, EI

Director of Pre-Construction

Charles Tofferi, EI, has been promoted to Director of Pre-Construction at Petticoat-Schmitt! Charles is set to lead an in-house team of estimators, identify new business opportunities, and ensure the delivery of top-quality projects using our ELEVATE20 project delivery system.

With nearly a decade of experience in the Florida construction industry and professional contracting licenses in general contracting, underground utility, plumbing, and mechanical disciplines, Charles brings incredible value to every project and client. Plus, he’s on track to become a certified Design-Build Professional® (DBIA®), further proving his dedication to excellence and collaboration in design-build projects. Charles is also active in NUCA of N. Florida, FWEA/ FSAWWA, and ACE Mentoring, showcasing his commitment to the industry and community.

Get to know Charles:

DIG DEEPER: Cultivating a Culture of Innovation

At Petticoat-Schmitt, we believe that true innovation comes from digging deeper. Our recent transition to an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) has supercharged our culture, empowering every team member to think creatively and push boundaries. When employees become owners, their investment in the company’s success sparks a surge of innovative ideas and solutions.

In this section, we celebrate the brilliant minds behind our most groundbreaking projects. From improving processes to solving complex challenges, our team’s ingenuity knows no bounds. Discover how our employee-owners are transforming obstacles into opportunities, driving Petticoat-Schmitt forward with their passion and creativity.

Profit Works Road Show: Second Stop on Our Journey to Success

Our Profit Works Jobsite Tour made its second stop at the MLK project, and the excitement was undeniable. This training session equipped our team with crucial business insights, including:

→ How Petticoat-Schmitt generates revenue

→ Decoding an income statement

→ Understanding incentives and profit-sharing mechanisms

The enthusiasm was contagious as team members dove into the material, expressing gratitude and a renewed drive to excel. Witnessing our crews so engaged and eager to contribute to our collective success was truly inspiring. Together, we’re not just building projects; we’re building a stronger, more informed team ready to dig deeper and achieve more.

Digger Day: Hitting Paydirt

Digger Day transforms the simple act of playing in the dirt into a powerful gesture of hope and support for young cancer warriors. From bulldozers to mazes to giant sand piles, Digger Day gives a whole new meaning to getting your hands dirty for a wonderful cause. The annual event centers on heightening awareness of child cancer, raising funds for the Child Cancer Fund (CCF), and giving children — from tots to teenagers — one special day to celebrate them.

The second weekend in April, Petticoat-Schmitt Civil Contractors, and Beard Equipment partnered with 59 sponsors for the third annual Digger Day 2024, together raising over $66,000 for the children’s charity. A special project for both firms, the event hosted its biggest numbers yet, both in dollars raised and over 180 children from the organization participating. These resilient children, along with their families, hit the dirt playing in a giant sand pile, racing through a specially constructed maze, navigating a pipe crawl, creating sand art, ziplining, and jumping around a bounce house.

The sounds of laughter and joy permeated the day with families enjoying treats and entertainment, with an ever-present reminder of the event’s deeper purpose: to support and celebrate the courage of children fighting cancer. Face painting, a DJ, food trucks, and more pizza, popcorn, and cotton candy than they could eat also helped each child feel truly celebrated. Perhaps the biggest draw, however, was the chance to operate heavy machinery. After donning safety glasses, vests, and hard hats provided in goody bags, and participating in a hands-on demonstration of proper bulldozing techniques, eager kids climbed aboard a bulldozer and moved some dirt, all under the expert supervision of Petticoat-Schmitt volunteers. “It was a day filled with laughter, joy, and, most importantly, love for the kids and families of the Child Cancer Fund. It’s moments like these that truly define us as a team and as a company. We were digging for smiles, and found resounding success, “said Lauren Atwell, President and COO, of Petticoat-Schmitt.

The morning was dedicated to the children from CCF and the afternoon was opened to the children – and children at heart – from Petticoat-Schmitt, Beard, and the supporting sponsors who made the event extraordinary. “From our first year, I knew that we had to make this an annual event. It’s been a very rewarding experience to be part of Digger Day and work with the Child Cancer Fund. I can’t wait to see what Digger Day 2025 holds,” said Brandi Manning, Director of Team Development at Petticoat-Schmitt. Since its inception in 2022, Digger Day has donated over $100,000 to CCF assisting them in their efforts to help local families in Northeast Florida and Southeast Georgia through the challenges of childhood cancer. “I can’t express how much an experience like Digger Day means to our Child Cancer Fund children and families. The excitement of driving these larger-than-life machines and all the activities gives them a chance to forget about cancer for a while and just enjoy being a kid. We hear from so many families about how it is their favorite event, and that’s all because of the kindness, compassion, and faith in the CCF mission shown by Petticoat-Schmitt and their partners,” remarked Carla Montgomery, Executive Director, Child Cancer Fund.

Click here to learn more about the Child Cancer Fund: https://childcancerfund.org/

“For

me, being a part of Digger Day and working with the Child Cancer Fund has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life — there’s nothing better than children smiling, laughing and happy, no matter what their circumstance.”

— Jodi Marson, Project Coordinator, Petticoat-Schmitt

Project Update: WATER RESOURCES

Petticoat-Schmitt recently completed a critical rehabilitation project at the Southwest-5104 118th St.

Class III/IV pump station. Initially built in the 1970s, the facility’s infrastructure had reached the end of its useful life. Our team immediately addressed extensive corrosion, revitalizing the station with new concrete and specialty coatings.

Key to the project’s success was our innovative use of a 30 MGD by-pass pump system, which allowed us to carry out improvements while mitigating environmental risks and minimizing public disruption. Despite the complexities, we kept the roads open and operations running smoothly— even during hurricane events.

The renovation also included:

» Replacing existing equipment and process piping

» Installing new motor control centers

» Variable frequency drives

» Instrumentation

» Sluice gates

» Service pumps

» Odor control systems

Thanks to our collaborative efforts with JEA and efficient project delivery, we ensured continuous and fail-safe operations, demonstrating our commitment to transforming communities through real partnerships of trust and reliability.

Project Update: SITE DEVELOPMENT

Petticoat-Schmitt recently completed a significant site infrastructure development at Tamaya Parcel F in Jacksonville, FL. This 46-acre project provided essential infrastructure for future developments in the area. Our team addressed various challenges to ensure successful project completion.

Key to the project’s success was our efficient execution of extensive earthwork and utility installation, which allowed us to build robust infrastructure while minimizing environmental impact and public disruption. Despite the complexities, we maintained smooth operations and kept the area accessible throughout the project.

The development included:

» Clearing and grubbing the entire site

» Implementing erosion and sediment control measures

» Extensive earthwork and grading

» Installing drainage systems, water mains, and sanitary sewers

» Constructing LBR 40 subgrade, lime rock base, and asphalt paving

» Building common area concrete sidewalks, handicap ramps, and curb & gutter systems

» Erecting cut-off walls and modular block walls

Thanks to our collaborative efforts with Tamaya Loan Acquisition LLC and the design team at ETM. This project underscores our commitment to enhancing communities through reliable and innovative construction practices.

Project Update: SITE

DEVELOPMENT

Petticoat-Schmitt recently completed a crucial site work project for the Ranch Road Apartments in Jacksonville, FL. This development, located at 13163 Ranch Road, involved extensive clearing and grubbing, erosion and sediment control, and various site preparations necessary for the construction of the new apartment complex.

Key to the project’s success was our efficient execution of site work while maintaining strict environmental controls. Despite the complexities, we ensured smooth operations and minimized disruption to the surrounding community.

The development included:

» Clearing and grubbing the entire site

» Implementing erosion and sediment control measures

» Stripping and grading to prepare the land for construction

» Installing necessary infrastructure for future construction phases

Thanks to our collaborative efforts with Aventon Companies and the design team at Aventon Construction South LLC, we delivered a high-quality project on time and within budget.

Project Update: PUBLIC WORKS

Petticoat-Schmitt recently completed a transformative project at the Ocala Wetland Groundwater Recharge Park located at 2201 21st St., Ocala, FL. This initiative aimed to enhance the city’s water management infrastructure while providing recreational amenities for the community.

Key to the project’s success was our integration of advanced water management systems and sustainable infrastructure which allowed us to improve the site’s functionality while preserving the environment. Despite the complexities, we maintained smooth operations and minimized disruption to the surrounding community.

The development included:

» Tying into the city’s existing reuse water system

» Installing a new reuse water discharge manifold that is fully automated

» Constructing three large reuse water retention cells with a 5 MGD system

» Executing heavy civil work and constructing a composite fiber elevated boardwalk system with over 300 driven fiberglass piles

» Installing three monitoring wells and creating 2.1 miles of walking/biking paths

» Building a new retention wall and utilities for a future education building

» Conducting upland and aquatic plantings in the bottom of each cell

Thanks to our collaborative efforts with the City of Ocala and the design team led by Jimmy Lopez, we delivered a high-quality project on time and within budget.

Podcast: Ryan Schmitt joins David Chavez on the podcast, The Strategy Sherpa Show

Ryan Schmitt, with over 32 years in civil contracting and as the visionary leader of Petticoat-Schmitt, shared his wealth of experience on The Strategy Sherpa Show with David Chavez. Dive into the conversation to uncover the mistakes and lessons that have shaped Ryan’s journey.

Listen to the full episode for valuable leadership insights and engaging discussion! https://www.voiceamerica.com/episode/148663/the-strategy-sherpa-show-with-guest-ryan-schmitt

NUCA’s 2024 Washington Summit

Kirk Blomgren, VP of Safety, Quality & Efficiency and NUCA: National Utility Contractors Association’s Southeast Region Vice Chair, recently represented PetticoatSchmitt, along with the Florida Delegation in Washington, DC, at NUCA’s 2024 Washington Summit.

Engaging with Florida’s congressional team, Kirk helped lobby for critical improvements to our nation’s underground infrastructure and workforce development initiatives by sharing personal stories highlighting the urgency. These efforts are pivotal in shaping policies that impact utility construction in our industry and across Florida.

NUCA 2024 Conference Presentation: Skills Forge: Digging Deeper into Workforce Development

Thank you, NUCA: National Utility Contractors Association, for hosting an amazing 2024 Convention.

During the Profile Pipeline Morning Session, Petticoat Schmitt’s Lauren Atwell and Ryan Schmitt gave an insightful presentation on ‘Skills Forge: Digging Deeper into Workforce Development.’ We’re passionate about sharing our approach to comprehensive team development, which includes onboarding, training, career growth, and workplace education.

As our core value says, ‘Develop the individualDevelop the team.’ It’s all about nurturing talent for a stronger future!

2024 Seamark Ranch Mud Run 5K

We got really muddy while running with our buddies!

Petticoat-Schmitt was a proud Gold Sponsor at the 2024 Seamark Ranch Mud Run 5K. A huge thank you to all 85 runners who signed up to join us and represent our team! It was an incredible day of supporting each other, overcoming hurdles, and prioritizing our team’s well-being!

ETM Real Estate + Infrastructure Games

Petticoat-Schmitt “dug deeper” this year and secured a second-place finish for the second consecutive year at the England-Thims & Miller, Inc. Games where some 340 professionals from the Northeast Florida realestate and infrastructure industries competed in events like tug-of-war and dodgeball. Additionally, we proudly took home the trophy for the “Most Spirited Team.”

The tournament was a great success, raising over $35,000 for the American Heart Association and Goodwill Industries of North Florida.

Thank you, ETM, for hosting this impactful and fun event! We can’t wait for next year!

Florida Construction Ready/Skills USA Career Expo

The 1st annual Florida Construction Ready/Skills USA Career Expo brought in over 3,000 students from across the state of Florida to experience heavy civil construction firsthand. They engaged with simulators, virtual reality, and hands-on activities.

Our Project Managers, Superintendents, and Team Development department shared their knowledge, fueling inspiration among the future construction workforce. We enjoyed guiding students through the many opportunities awaiting them in the construction industry!

A big thank you to the BlackLine Podcast for featuring our team members, Charles Tofferi, Assoc. DBIA and Anthony (AJ) Falletta, during the event. They discussed how the next generation coming into the construction industry can be kept from feeling discouraged.

About Us

Services:

Site Development

» Site & Civil Construction

» Clearing & Grubbing

» Mass Grading/Excavation

» Underground Utility Installation

» Storm Drainage/Underdrain

» Irrigation

» Roadway - New, Widening, Rehabilitation & Modifications, Milling, Resurfacing

» Hardscaping, Streetscaping, Landscaping, Sidewalks, & Parking Site Civil Construction

» Curb & Gutter

» Striping & Signage

» Lift & Pump Stations

» Fencing

Water Resources

» Water, Wastewater, Reuse, & Reverse Osmosis Plant Construction, Expansion, and Rehabilitation

» Reclaim Storage Facility Construction, Expansion, and Rehabilitation

» Food & Agricultural Water Pre-Treatment

» Lift & Booster Pump Station Installation & Rehabilitation

» Industrial Construction & Repair

» Specialty Piping & Process

Equipment Installation

» Wellhead Construction

» Regulatory Compliance

» Fencing

Public Works

» Site and Civil Construction

» Roadway & Highway - New, Widening, Rehabilitation & Modifications, Milling, Resurfacing

» Hardscaping, Streetscaping, Landscaping, Sidewalks, & Parking

Site Civil Construction

» Striping & Signage

» Underground Utility Installation

» Water, Sewer, Force & Re-Use Mains

» Underground Electrical Conduit

» Lift & Pump Stations Installation & Repair

» Gravity Collection & Storm Drains

» Drainage

» Emergency Modifications – Isolation Valve Additions & Bypass Line Construction & Installation

» Pipe Replacement – Bursting & Hammering

» Line Repairs, Modifications & Additions

» Manhole Repair & Rehabilitation

» Fencing