O‑A‑K Welcomes 12 New Employees

(Grand Rapids, MI) June 26, 2020 – Owen‑Ames‑Kimball Co. (O‑A‑K), local professional construction firm, announces the additions of Dale Austin, Gabe Baumann, Rebeckah Blair, Jeff Diemer, Dan Eaton, Ashley Elo, Blake Gabler, Levi Overway, Josh Rondeau, Carl Smith, Jacob Vroon, and Nate Zichterman.

Dale Austin, Project Superintendent, is a Rockford resident with over 30 years of experience in both residential and commercial construction, specializing in healthcare, commercial, and multi-family projects. He is a Licensed Builder in the State of Michigan and is OSHA 30-Hour Construction Certified.

Gabe Baumann, Assistant Project Superintendent, is a recent graduate from Northern Michigan University’s construction management program. Prior to this, he also attended Kent Career Tech Center’s construction program. He is OSHA 30-Hour Certified.

Rebeckah Blair, Accounting Assistant, has 17 years of experience in both accounting and administrative roles. She holds a bachelor’s degree in business management from Cornerstone University and is a Workforce Development Certified Professional.

Jeff Diemer, Project Superintendent, brings 22 years of experience leading commercial construction projects, ranging from $5 to $22 million. He holds a bachelor’s degree in architecture from the University of Michigan and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in architectural engineering, with a construction focus. He is OSHA 30-Hour Construction Certified and LEED AP BD+C Accredited.

Dan Eaton, Project Superintendent, has 24 years of experience in the construction field. He brings senior-level knowledge in managing multi-million dollar projects, specializing in commercial, medical, and industrial renovations and new builds. He is also OSHA 10-Hour Construction Certified.

Ashley Elo, Marketing Assistant, recently graduated from Grand Valley State University’s College of Business with a bachelor’s in marketing and management. She joined O‑A‑K as a marketing intern in August 2019 and has been with the company part-time until completing her coursework.

Blake Gabler, Assistant Project Superintendent, recently graduated from Ferris State University with a degree in construction management. While attending Ferris, he held multiple internships, gaining hands-on field experience. He is OSHA 10-Hour Certified.

Levi Overway, Assistant Project Superintendent, is a graduate of Ferris State University’s construction management program. While attending Ferris, Levi held multiple commercial construction internships. He is OSHA 10-Hour Certified.

Josh Rondeau, Project Superintendent, holds a bachelor’s degree in construction management from Ferris State University. He has 17 years of experience in commercial construction and facility management. He is also a Licensed Builder in the State of Michigan and OSHA 10-Hour Certified.

Carl Smith, Project Superintendent, brings 38 years of experience, specializing in multi-million dollar commercial and educational projects. He is OSHA 30-Hour Construction Certified and a Licensed Builder in the State of Michigan.

Jacob Vroon, Assistant Project Superintendent, recently graduated with his bachelor’s in construction management from Ferris State University. While attending Ferris, he was a member of the American Society of Construction Engineering. He is also OSHA 10-Hour Construction Certified.

Nathan Zichterman, Project Superintendent, is a Kalamazoo native with 22 years of experience in construction. He has a strong background in carpentry work for both residential and commercial projects. He is also OSHA 10-Hour Construction Certified.

ABOUT O‑A‑K

Founded in Grand Rapids in 1891, Owen‑Ames‑Kimball Co. (O‑A‑K) is the longest-standing commercial construction management company in Michigan. We specialize in community-driven construction projects. As a 100% employee-owned company, we provide accurate, intentional, and all-inclusive construction services.