Volume 4 Issue 4 | Garrett Gazzette

GARRETT GAZZETT

WHAT IS ?

Mark Evans and Andy Kirby have had a long friendship, even prior to both of their times at The Garrett Companies. The design and construction of MEP’s (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) were almost always a topic of discussion. How could a General Contractor begin this process without having the hiccups that are caused by hiring out subcontractors? By bringing it in-house.

With the forming of The Garrett Mechanical Company, Mark, along with teammates Darren Miller and Nathan Beck, began digging away at the age-old question of how to better control the costs, standards, scheduling, lead time, and labor of one of the more challenging aspects of construction jobs, MEP’s. All three teammates have an extensive background in the world of multifamily plumbing and planning. So, when this opportunity came about, they sprung on it.

The Mechanical, Electrical, & Plumbing disciplines, commonly referred to as MEPs, are technical in nature, and can provide a wide array of obstacles when planned for and installed incorrectly. And when done incorrectly, it’s not an easy fix. Bringing the Mechanical & Plumbing trades in-house helps mitigate risk and provides a better control on cost, quality and schedule.

The Garrett Mechanical Company was originally formed to supplement the lack

“

ISSUE

Mark explained that his day-to-day duties include bidding projects, accounting and cost tracking, budgeting for future projects in anticipation of bidding on a job, design components, reviewing plans for upcoming projects, material sourcing, logistics, and compensating the second-tier labor that Garrett Mechanical contracts. Darren has been the field guy for the entirety of Garrett Mechanical’s lifetime. Supervising onsite, 2nd-tier labor, and jumping in and assisting wherever he is needed. Nathan Beck is the project engineer behind all of this. Working in the background, completing CAD work, takeoffs, RFI’s, and submittals. All three work together as a well-oiled machine, churning out quality solutions and processes for one of the more challenging aspects of construction jobs.

of proficient subcontractors in some areas and municipalities. According to Mark, options can be limited when it comes to finding qualified subcontractors in some markets, particularly at Parker and Pine in Parker, CO, The Garrett Mechanical Company’s first project assignment. This project had a poor seat of subcontractors submit bids for the job, so in stepped Mark. Him and Darren, alongside secondtier contractors, have worked at the site since the beginning. The team will work together from the beginning of the project to delivery, to ensure that standards are met, and the project passes inspections with flying colors. Mark states that Darren completed the first building’s underground plumbing at Parker and Pine entirely on his own!

Each project, if not restricted by labor forces or other circumstances outside of control, receives a proposal from The Garrett Mechanical Company and is treated just like any other subcontractor. If the timing of the project and workload aligns with available resources, then the project teams will plan the job out accordingly with The Garrett Mechanical Company.

Without well-designed solutions and processes for MEP’s,TGC apartment building are essentially just well-decoratedcaves. Mechanical and plumbing completed by The GarrettMechanical Company turn a community’s interior into the cozyspaces its residents all know and enjoy.

“

As is the case with most businesses, growth must happen at a healthy pace. The Garrett Mechanical Company is no different. Growth needs to be tempered in order to continue providing cutting-edge support and planning for each project currently under GM’s control.

Without well-designed solutions and processes for MEP’s, TGC apartment building are essentially just well-decorated caves. Mechanical and plumbing completed by The Garrett Mechanical Company turn a community’s interior into the cozy spaces its residents all know and enjoy.

GETTING STARTED ON THE RIGHT FOOT: Concrete foundations cannot be poured until the groundwork is laid for the plumbing lines at Pine+Parker in Parker, CO.

GARRETT BIRTHDAYS

OCTOBER

Corey Mason, 10/2

Bill Harvey, 10/3

Chad Cole, 10/4

Nathan Beck, 10/8

Matt Crupi, 10/10

Matt Zetzl, 10/14

James Gillespie, 10/15

Megan Grider, 10/16

Jackson Beckman, 10/24

Heath Kennedy, 10/27

Parker Herd, 10/29

Jonathan Melo, 10/30

Kenny Thorbjornsen, 10/30

Ivan Covarrubias, 10/31

Dan McIntosh, 10/31

NOVEMBER

Matt Stump, 11/2

Jennifer Eckert, 11/3

Jim Garrett, 11/3

Matt Griffin, 11/6

Walt Hackney, 11/7

Jordan Reisman, 11/12

Stephanie Fuentes, 11/14

Ashley Gibson, 11/14

Mason Estes, 11/14

Jourdann Barnes, 11/17

Donna Garrett, 11/17

Beth Weaver, 11/18

Chris Hentschel, 11/21

Isabella Story ,11/21

Rachel Harmon, 11/23

Matt Fillmore, 11/23

Aaron Kitch, 11/25

Matt Knotts, 11/25

Braden Hellewell, 11/28

Derrick Pichon, 11/29

DECEMBER

Joe Campbell, 12/1

Ross Culbertson, 12/5

Mike Yozman, 12/5

Ryan Bart, 12/7

Alexis Walton, 12/9

Nick Smith, 12/10

Soni Leturgez, 12/10

Russell Moeller, 12/11

Sierra Hughes, 12/26

Alicia Quinn, 12/29

CAREER PATH TO SUCCESS: Aaron Kitch

When Aaron Kitch joined The Garrett Companies in April of 2015 as a Construction Project Engineer, the company was in its infancy stages with only eight(8) employees. Fast forward to today with over 200 employees and preparing to open a third headquarters, Aaron describes his growth story with TGC as a “wild ride.” During Aaron’s first interview with Eric, he knew he wanted to explore a switch from Construction to Investments, and Eric saw the potential. When the time was right, Eric prepared Aaron for this new role. “I remember sitting in a conference room and Eric teaching me what a cap rate and NOI was on a white board. He even gave me homework that weekend. When I was the only one in the Investments group, I learned so much working directly with him.” Aaron also attributes his success to the support he receives from Matt Griffin and Rob Martinson, who always make him feel comfortable sharing his ideas. He also gives credit to his teammates, Jordan, Joey, and Chris.

Aaron’s career path with TGC started in Construction (Project Engineer April 2015-December 2016), then to Development (Development Associate January 2016 to December 2017), and now to Acquisitions Manager (January 2018 to Present). When we asked Aaron where he has his focus for the future, he expressed an interest to continue to grow with the company until he retires, and in whatever way makes the most sense for the Investments Division and the success of the company. He went on to say, “I love doing side projects and hope to perform some of my own smaller deals as well.” Aaron also helped us understand the recipe for his success by telling us his sources of motivation. “1. I just love Real Estate and love trying to get better. It’s a very complex industry and I want to be dynamic in all disciplines. 2. Since I’ve been with Garrett Co from the beginning I feel personally invested in the growth and success of the company. It’s been a game changer in my career/life and I want Garrett Co to be #1 in the game. 3. Being that project cycle always starts with the Investment Group, I also feel a personal responsibility to make sure the pipeline is always full. I love when we need to hire more people to fill the projects as a direct result of our hard work at the beginning.”

CELEBRATE MILESTONES

1 YEAR

Angel Umanzor, 10/4

Stacie Perez, 10/4

Todd Ellwanger, 10/11

Jeff Stump, 10/11

Jason Purvis, 10/25

Lauren Zike, 10/25

Chance Kevwitch, 10/25

Jacob Bevans, 11/1

Madalynn Lipska, 11/1

Kyle Romas, 11/2

Laurie Bauer, 11/8

Kris Gordon, 11/8

Kenny Thorbjornsen, 11/15

Matt Weaver, 12/13

Stephanie Fuentes, 12/13

2 YEARS

Andrew Kreps, 10/8

Emily Johnson, 10/8

Nikol Weidner, 10/8

Jerry Davis, 10/8

Markus Kluga, 10/19

David Bottoms, 11/9

3 YEARS

Meghann Conklin, 10/7

Brad Gleaton, 11/12

4 YEARS

Kayla Allen, 11/8

5 YEARS

Matt Anderson, 10/16

Angie Atkins, 11/13

6 YEARS

Jonathan Byrd, 11/8

Sam Petersen, 12/19

7 YEARS

Rachel McNicholas, 10/1

8 YEARS

Matt Griffin, 10/6

LAUREN ZIKE

I love when we need to hire more people to fill the projects as a direct result of our hard work at the beginning.

VTO OPPORTUNITIES

With only 3 months remaining in 2022, how will you utilize your remaining Volunteer Time Off benefit to make an impact in your local community? We’ve gathered a list of suggestions. Don’t forget that every full time employee is eligible to use up to 40 hours of VTO annually.

Did you know near our HQ locations we have multiple opportunities to spend your VTO hours with our favorite fury friends? Check out your local opportunities:

INDY

INDY HUMANE 317.872.5650 x130 | eriddle@indyhumane.org

ANIMAL CARE SERVICES 317.327.1396 | indyacs@indy.gov

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHT: FREEDOM FOR A DAY Jail break! Go pick up a pup for the day, and take them on an adventure of a lifetime. Play fetch in the park, go get a new toy from the pet store, or eat all the cheese burgers you can! Treat a dog to a fun filled day all about them!

THE DATES

YOGA

GREENWOOD HQ Wednesdays @ 10AM ET

GARRETT

GET-TOGETHERS

GREENWOOD & LONE TREE HQ’S @ 3PM

October 25th, November 22nd

ANNUAL MEETING: December 14 & 15th

COLORADO

PAID HOLIDAYS:

Thursday, November 24th & Friday, November 25th –Thanksgiving/Day After

Friday, December 23rd –Observed Christmas Eve

Monday, December 26th –Observed Christmas

TBD* - NYE/NYD

COLORADO ANIMAL RESCUE 970.947.9173 | volunteer@coloradoanimalrescue.org

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHT: DAY HIKE WITH A DOG

Take a dog on the trail for the day. Go grab a pup from the rescue and go hike a mountain. How fun would it be to spend the day in the fresh mountain air with a dog who needs some love and exercise!

ANIMAL RESCUE OF THE ROCKIES 970.389.8324 | arrcolorado@gmail.com

LOOKING FOR MORE RESOURCES?

Look into your local shelters and rescues to see how you can help!

We’re listening to your survey feedback and continually searching for ways to perpetuate the best-in-class benefits package for TGC employee. Get familiar with the most recent additions:

PET INSURANCE

Nationwide pet insurance helps you cover veterinary expenses so you can provide your pets with the best care possible without worrying about the cost. Simply pay for coverage through a convenient after-tax payroll deduction.

• Use any licensed vet in the world

• Enroll at any time, not just during open enrollment

• Choose the level of coverage you want between 70% or 50%

• The plan is portable if you leave The Garrett Companies

For questions or to enroll, please contact Nationwide by phone at 877.738.7874 or click here and enter The Garrett Companies in the company search field.

RESOURCES:

PLAN SUMMARY | BUDGET FRIENDLY OPTIONS

AVIAN / EXOTIC PETS | FAQS

This first-of-its-kind premium benefit is a gamechanger for employees who have wondered how they can afford to give their child(ren) a post-high school education. Eligible employees qualify for a max benefit of $100,000 secondary education expense reimbursement for their dependents. Garrett EDU reimburses employees for out-of-pocket costs as they relate specifically to Secondary Education Tuition and Fees. On your 6th anniversary of employment, you can start getting reimbursed!

GET THE FULL DETAILS AND START THE ENROLLMENT PROCESS HERE ›

SOME OF THE NEW CREW

WHAT IS ONE THING YOU MAY NOT KNOW ABOUT OUR LATEST MEMBERS TO JOIN THE TEAM?

BAILEY SHIVES

I am extremely proud to be a brother of Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity. It was here that I made many of my closet friends while attending Indiana University.

MATT CRUPI

I have completed a full marathon, and I enjoy hanging out with friends, grilling, working out, watching football and playing in various intramural leagues. I also love traveling to new areas and hiking.

GRANT FEUERSTEIN

I grew up in Sussex, Wisconsin and I am the first family member to move out of the state to pursue my career. I graduated from the University of Wisconsin Whitewater with honors.

JONATHAN MELO

I was born in the Dominican Republic and raised in Durham, North Carolina. I love my two daughters Natalie and Valentina they are my life!

AARON ROWLETT

I served 6 years in the Airforce, and I love to go riding. My girlfriend and I both take riding trips with friends.

JOE CAMPBELL

I was the first member of family to graduate college, a state all-star in high school baseball, and I always have a rubiks cube in my backpack.

CARRIE COCHRAN

I own a website called Hoosier Paws. I have dreams of starting a not-for-profit rescuing dogs and cats.

ASHLEY GIBSON

My husband Frank and I have been married 15 years next year! We have three children Michael, Matthew (13) and Gracie (5). Two Goldendoodles Max and Mabel. We move all the time...6 houses in 12 years! What can I say I love real estate!

STEPHEN BALLOW

I’ve been in the Army for 12 years and Engineer Officer with 2 deployments. I completed the Norwegian Ruck March and earned the Norwegian Armies Ruck March Badge, also awarded a 4 star Generals Coin in Afghanistan for such a good job and how quick we were able to complete construction projects where I was in charge.

MARK LAMAN

I’m most proud of winning big events as a tournament bass angler, holding my pro card in golf for 12 years, and being a father.

MICHAEL HOUSEMAN

I’ve recently been tandem skydiving which has added a bucket list item of a solo skydive.

SHANE CLARKSON

I love family time, going to baseball games, preferably the Reds, volunteering at my church.

BRADEN HELLEWELL

I scored the winning goal in the regional soccer championship my junior year. I am very outgoing and social, but I am actually a major introvert; I can imitate Donald Duck; I LOVE Baseball - I’m a sports numbers weirdo.

team members.

BETH WEAVER

I am a bourbon collector. My husband and I like to travel & we are also foodies as it is not unusual for us to travel out of state for dinner.

ROSS CULBERTSON

I recently bought a home in the Meadows Subdivision/ Castle Rock, CO where all yards contain planting beds with established perennials, wildflowers, flowering bushes and fruit trees, no sod. So I’m a gardener now.

BRIDGET BURK

I am a graduated Big Sister with Big Brother Big Sister program after nine years in the program, and I am an NCIDQ certified interior designer.

BILL VALAIKA

I started a 501c3 nonprofit organization to clean up coastal shorelines where endangered species are at risk, obtained a music/sound degree from Full Sail University, proud owner of a 5 speed/454 big block 1971 Chevelle SS winning several

best in show awards, owner of Matsuhisa Restaurant in Aspen from 1996-2004, professional water skier and member of the Wonder Lake Water Ski Show and Club, front cover and article in Guitar World Magazine featuring my guitars.

LIFE EVENTS

SLOAN COLE HERD

Born June 29, 2022 to Parker Herd and his wife.

MERRITT LEIGH HUGHES

Born June 24, 2022 to Sierra Hughes and her husband.

CYPRESS

Tiffany Letzo welcomed a 10 month old Golden Retriever in August

PEPPER Paul Martin rescued a new dog in August from San Antonio, she loves her big brother Duke, and the dog park.

PATRICK & CECELIA ZETZL

Twins born September 8, 2022 to Matt Zetzl and his wife.

OZZY

Ryan Deckard welcomed, his latest Sphynx cat into his family in August

MR. & MRS. MCNEELY

Parker and Hannah McNeely married on July 16, 2022 in Terre Haute, IN.

GAME ON

WORD SEARCH PUZZLE

Here for the friendly Gazzett completition? Here is the game: complete the word seach by finding the 5 words hidden in the puzzle. HINT: all the words are found in this issue of the gazzett

The first person to send in the correct answer will

AMELIA ALLISON JADE OLSON

Born June 30, 2022 to India Olson and her husband.

ATLAS WILLIAM BARNES

Born August 17, 2022 to Jourdann Barnes and her husband.

gift

Send your 5 words to Abby Rusie (arusie@TheGarrettCo.com)

KICK

Bailey’s and take the milk down a notch

Shake everything in the tumbler

Dump out the ice water in the martini glass and quickly dry it with a lint free paper towel or cloth

Swirl the chocolate around the inside of the glass

Strain the cocktail into the martini glass, leaving the ice in the tumbler