In a twist of fate, my journey with AP began during my college years when I had the chance to walk through a project site where an immediate family member was collaborating with AP as the general contractor. The AP team members had enthusiasm and professionalism that left a lasting impression on me, and I quickly sought out AP at a career fair, eager to join such a remarkable group. I felt fortunate to land a position with them at the start of my career, and it has been a rewarding experience ever since.
AP has played a pivotal role in my professional development. The culture here is characterized by openness and support, fostering growth not only in technical skills but also in ethics and professionalism. I was eager to learn about the real-world construction market, and I found that every corner I turned at AP offered a helping hand. This collaborative environment has allowed me to thrive and expand my knowledge, making each day at work an opportunity for growth.
Reflecting on my time at AP, I realize that while I wouldn’t want to switch jobs with anyone else, I would advise my younger self to get more involved and network more extensively within the organization. The construction industry in the DFW area is filled with incredible people, and building those connections early on would have been invaluable. For prospective candidates, I can’t emphasize enough the fantastic culture at AP. It’s not just a buzzword here; it’s a genuine atmosphere that anyone would be proud to be part of.
Looking ahead, my wish for the next decade with AP is to witness our regional growth as anticipated. I believe AP has the right ingredients for success, and our people are our greatest asset. The camaraderie and excitement I experience daily make this journey even more fulfilling. One of my proudest moments has been watching my colleagues succeed, supported by a structure that prioritizes servant leadership.
Steph joined the AP Midwest team in 2022, from her first interaction with the team she knew it was a place she wanted to stay. “From my first interaction with the recruiter to each interview I had with the team I felt welcomed, which was very refreshing,” Steph said. The culture and camaraderie drew her in, but the relationships she has built are a reason AP feels like home.
Steph’s role was rather new to AP when she started. One of her main goals was, and is, to change the perception of HR. “There is a huge misconception that HR only shows up when something is wrong, but really I am here to foster an environment of learning and growth for our team members,” Steph explained. She says that the best part of her job is that she gets to collaborate with so many departments. Collaborating, coaching, and helping these departments look ahead at the big picture is what drives her.
In her time at AP, Steph has made a huge impact on many departments and team members. When asked what is next for her, she says she wants to continue supporting our teams and bring HR to the top of minds when issues arise, regardless of their nature.
Eryn has been with AP since May of 2020 when she joined us as an Intern. She’s been full-time with AP since May 2022 and is a Project / Field Engineer. She’s on track for attaining her career goal of becoming a superintendent.
“I love the diversity that every day brings. I am able to flow from the office to the field on each jobsite and see both the administrative and physical work sides of our construction projects,” Eryn explained. That daily diversity has kept her on her toes as she’s been involved in projects, recruiting by attending career days at local schools, and working to record and edit our regional podcast.
When asked about a favorite AP project, Eryn was quick to identify Roosevelt High School. “This project was the biggest project I’ve been on to date and I really enjoyed being able to participate in so many different scopes of work — everything from an outdoor stadium and storm drainage systems to classrooms and interior finishes.”
Caleb Frost is a project manager in our Southwest region. He started his career journey at AP in 2021, bringing his extensive healthcare tenant improvement background to our new-build construction projects. What initially drew Caleb to AP was the company’s solid reputation in healthcare construction. After his first field assignment, he knew AP was a company where he could contribute his talents and grow his career.
Among the many projects Caleb has worked on at AP, one stands out as his favorite: Reunion Rehabilitation Hospital Peoria (RRH Peoria). This project presented a unique blend of challenges and rewards, offering him an incredibly enriching experience.
For those considering a career with AP, Caleb imparts the following advice: “The construction industry is demanding, but at AP, the support for personal growth is unparalleled. Never underestimate the significance of being part of a company that is genuinely invested in your professional development.”
As he looks ahead, Caleb envisions AP’s Southwest region continuing to excel as a market leader. Beyond mere financial success, the company will maintain its commitment to fostering a robust corporate culture, ensuring its enduring strength and vitality.