At Crain Construction, we love the work we do. As an employee-owned, commercial contractor with over nine decades of experience in Nashville, we’ve had the privilege of building more than just impressive structures. We’ve built a legacy—a legacy founded on the dedication and hard work of our people.
Our success is deeply rooted in the individuals who show up each day, giving their best to our projects and to one another. We’re proud to say that 24% of our employees have worked with us for more than 25 years. That’s not something many construction companies can say, and it’s a testament to the family atmosphere and the culture we’ve worked so hard to create.
In honor of Careers in Construction Month, we gathered insights and advice from some of our longest-tenured employees to reflect on how the industry has changed over the years. These conversations with our team members—who collectively celebrate nearly 200 years of combined experience at Crain—highlight our commitment to growth while maintaining the strong foundation that defines us.
Gather with us around the proverbial table as we share advice from Frank Wilk, VP of Operations (Crain employee for 29 years), David Malone, Superintendent (33 years at Crain), Tony Watkins, Foreman (31 years at Crain), Chad Thomas, Senior Project Manager (23 years at Crain), Jim Pedigo, CFO (40 years at Crain), and Mark Rankin, Executive Vice President (26 years at Crain).
Adapting to the Changes: A Look Through the Eyes of Crain’s Veterans
In an industry as dynamic as construction, change is inevitable. Over the past several decades, our team has witnessed firsthand how advances in technology have transformed everything from how we communicate on the job to the way we approach craftsmanship.
“I remember the days when you had to leave the job site to find a pay phone to make a call,” David Malone recalls. “Now, you can just text from where you’re standing.”
The advent of mobile phones, Wi-Fi, and instant information access has revolutionized how construction teams operate. Tasks that used to require time-consuming travel or paperwork can now be handled on the go, speeding up processes and improving communication.
Technology has not only streamlined operations but also enhanced our ability to solve complex problems. The digital tools available today allow us to be more precise and efficient than ever before, giving us the ability to plan proactively and prevent issues before they arise.
“We have access to drone technology, laser scanning, and GPS tracking for collecting data on sites,” shares Chad Thomas. “This technology has greatly helped the speed and accuracy of surveying, ensuring safety while also monitoring the site in real-time.”
Grounded in Values: Crain’s Commitment to Our People
While the construction industry has evolved, Crain Construction’s commitment to timeless principles and core values has remained steady. Our strong company culture is something we take great pride in, and it’s what continues to set us apart.
“My dad worked at Crain for 40+ years, and my granddad worked here for 30+ years,” Tony Watkins shares. “They both retired from Crain, so for me, it was an opportunity to keep that going.”
Tony’s family legacy is a perfect reflection of the stability and support Crain provides to its employees. We work hard to foster an environment where team members feel valued, supported, and empowered to grow both personally and professionally. This commitment to our people creates a collaborative atmosphere where challenges are seen as opportunities, and everyone is eager to lend a hand.
Jim Pedigo echoed those thoughts, highlighting the company’s legacy of being an employee-centric company — which was guided by former CEO, Lewis Rankin.
“I’ve known the Rankins for a long time and had a lot of respect for Mr. Lewis Rankin before he hired me in 1985,” Jim shared. “Being an employee-owned company, we’ve worked hard to grow strategically while creating a great environment where people enjoy showing up and working alongside one another each day.”
“The collaborative atmosphere at Crain, along with the long-term relationships I’ve made with employees, clients, and trade partners, has been a huge part of my experience here,” says Frank Wilk. “And having that work-life balance is just as important.”
Our culture of teamwork and mutual respect is what drives our success and allows us to deliver exceptional results for our clients. It’s a culture that has been built over the years and continues to be shaped by employees who have shaped our legacy.
Words of Wisdom: Tips for Aspiring Construction Professionals
Our team members have worked on hundreds of projects, gained invaluable experience, and have some words of wisdom for those just starting out in the construction industry. When asked to share advice for the next generation, their insights were as practical as they were meaningful.
Mark Rankin emphasizes the importance of having a well-rounded understanding of the entire construction process: “I’d recommend gaining a solid understanding of both fieldwork and project management. A broad knowledge base will set you up for success.”
David Malone encourages curiosity and continuous learning: “Ask questions as to why something is done a certain way. You’ll never know if you don’t ask. And always learn from your mistakes and those of others.”
Chad Thomas echoes that sentiment, highlighting the value of dependability and inquiry: “Always ask why and be dependable. I was taught this early in my career, and it still stands true today.”
“Stick with it and make the most of it,” added Tony Watkins.
“In my experience, to have a successful career, you really need to have a passion for it,” Jim Pedigo shared. “I believe that applies to any role in the industry.”
And finally, Frank Wilk echoed that advice with a reflection on the importance of loving what you do: “Make sure you enjoy the work and the people around you. And don’t forget—work-life balance is critical to your long-term success.”
Shaping the Future Together: Discover a Career at Crain Construction
At Crain Construction, we’re not just building structures — we’re building careers. We care about helping our team members create meaningful paths in the construction industry, and we’re incredibly grateful for the role that employees like Frank, David, Chad, Tony, and Mark have played in shaping our company and mentoring others along the way.
As we celebrate Careers in Construction Month, we honor the dedication and expertise of our long-standing employees and invite those looking to build a meaningful career to consider joining our team. If you’re interested in learning more about what it’s like to work at Crain, check out our careers page and discover how you can be part of our legacy.
