Our greatest asset is our people. We believe the path to true success begins with hiring qualified men and women who will thrive in our culture. We have cultivated an environment that strives to attract and maintain loyal team members, some of whom have been with our team for 30 years or longer. In our “3-for-30” series, we gain better insight into those who have contributed so significantly to our team.
This month, we hear from Levester “Duke” Watt, foreman and leader of one of our paving teams here at Lehman-Roberts, A Granite Company. VP of Project Management Michael Ellis shared, “Duke’s core value of relationships stands out to me. From his team members to the inspectors and engineers that represent the projects we work on, Duke makes it a point to find a way to gain trust and work with those he meets every day.”
Michael went on to add, “During his time here at Lehman-Roberts, there have been many miles of roadway paved in north central Mississippi, and Duke has been a part of all those miles. He has seen a lot of changes over the past 30 years and has embraced those changes so that we are better tomorrow than we were yesterday.”
Darrell “Woody” Franklin, Assistant Superintendent, remarked, “Over the past 30 years, Duke has stayed consistent and has demonstrated his skill to get the job done. His determination to complete the project on time and to get the production is a testament to his drive.”
Levester “Duke” Watt, Foreman
What led you to the company?
“When I first started, I knew all the people who worked [in this area]. It was a great group of guys. I needed a job, so I got with them, and they showed me the ropes, and I fell in love with it.”
What’s your favorite part about working here?
“Building relationships. Whether it’s with inspectors, project owners, or my team, I love interacting with everyone and getting to know people.”
How have operations of the company changed over the years?
“There have been a lot of good changes and they’ve all been in the best interest of the company. One of our core values is continuous improvement, and that’s all we’ve done throughout my years here.”
What is the best piece of advice you can offer someone?
“Your name is on everything you do out here [on a project site]. As far as the work you do and the relationships you build, it’s all under one name, and you can’t change it. It goes a long way to do good and have a good reputation.”
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
“I mostly spend time with family and ride my side-by-side. I love spending time with my grandkids.”
Lehman-Roberts is a wholly owned subsidiary of Granite Construction. Learn more at https://www.graniteconstruction.com/company/our-brands.
