Blueprint for Excellence: Wali Muhammad

Our employee of the month series, Blueprint for Excellence, shines a spotlight on our team members who go above and beyond, lead by example, and champion our core values in everything they do. Currently serving as a Roller Operator, Wali Muhammad exemplifies each of these values through his strong work ethic and determination to improve every day.

Wali was nominated by his teammate, Byron, who recognized his drive from the very beginning. “Ever since he started, Wali told me [and other team members] that he wanted to learn everything there was. As the days went by, that’s exactly what he’s been doing… learning and learning. We salute this young man. Keep it up,” Byron shared. That mindset has been evident in Wali’s daily performance and interactions on the job.

Wali’s Foreman, Tethion, has seen that commitment firsthand. “Wali is consistent at work and willing to learn how to do different things on the job site,” he said. This reliability and openness to learning have allowed Wali to quickly take on new responsibilities and continue developing his skillset.

His growth in the field has not gone unnoticed. General Construction Superintendent Jarod Riles highlighted his steady performance, noting that he has taken on operating a rubber tire roller and continues to handle the responsibility with consistency and skill. Construction Superintendent Preston Bryson echoed that sentiment, adding that from his perspective, he has been doing a strong job operating and has proven himself reliable in the role. Together, their feedback reflects a growing confidence in his abilities and underscores his willingness to step in, adapt quickly, and make meaningful contributions wherever he is needed.

Wali’s dedication has also been recognized at the leadership level. Vice President Jeremy Ramberg shared, “Wali’s drive to master every aspect of his role, including his recent work on the rubber tire roller, is exactly the kind of proactive mindset we value. It is great to see that level of dedication recognized by his team members working alongside him.”

Reflecting on his experience so far, Wali exuded a strong sense of growth and pride in his work. “I’ve really enjoyed learning how to operate different equipment and how it all works together with the asphalt,” he shared, describing how he started with ground work before being given the opportunity to expand his skills. “Then, my team showed me how to drive the roller and other equipment,” he added. Wali also emphasized the importance of the team environment, noting, “We have a good team. Everybody gets along, we laugh a lot, and joke a lot. Our work speaks for itself.”

He highlighted the supportive culture on site, explaining, “It’s a team effort. If someone sees anyone doing something wrong, they coach you in a helpful way. Everyone works together and helps each other.”

Wali’s commitment to learning, his strong work ethic, and his positive attitude make him a great example of the Blueprint for Excellence in action. His willingness to take initiative and grow within his role continues to make a meaningful impact on his team and the company.

Lehman-Roberts is a wholly owned subsidiary of Granite Construction. Learn more at https://www.graniteconstruction.com/company/our-brands.