Owen‑Ames‑Kimball Co. (O‑A‑K), local professional construction firm, announces the promotion of Cade Dammen to Director of Field Operations.
Previously a Project Superintendent with the firm, Dammen has 12 years of experience in commercial construction and has been with O‑A‑K since 2010.
The new position was developed in response to the company’s consistent growth throughout the West Michigan region. In his new role, Dammen will provide guidance and leadership for the company’s growing field operations, giving Project Superintendents in the field access to company expertise, and enhancing the firm’s leadership team.
“Cade is a great fit for this position. He excelled in his previous role as a Project Superintendent and will help the next generation do the same,” said Frank Stanek, President & CEO. “As we look toward the future, we are very focused on investing in our people.”
Born and raised in Middleville, Michigan, Cade Dammen grew up on a hobby farm. Also the son of a mechanical engineer, he began working with his father in middle school, creating AutoCAD details for furniture machinery. In high school he worked for a local painting contractor and decided the construction industry was a long-term fit. Dammen went on to study at Ferris State University, where he received his bachelor’s degree in construction management, and received an internship at O‑A‑K.
“Starting as an intern, I saw right away that O‑A‑K’s culture was a perfect match for me. Senior leaders that guided me were incredibly knowledgeable, and egos were left at the door. I knew I wanted to be a part of the team on my first day,” Dammen said.
Today, Dammen is raising his own family in Middleville. Working at O‑A‑K, he has had the opportunity to manage several construction projects within his hometown district of Thornapple-Kellogg. An advocate for construction workforce development, he regularly participates in career fairs throughout the area, encouraging students to consider a meaningful career path in the industry.