In today’s fast-paced world, where job-hopping is often seen as the norm, finding an employee who has dedicated three decades of their life to one company is a rare and special thing. We are proud to celebrate the incredible milestone of Steve Raeker, who has been an integral part of the Dale Gruber Construction company for 30 years!
Looking Back
Dale Gruber Construction was founded by Dale Gruber himself back in 1983 and started out of the basement of his home. In time, the business grew, adding the Home Check Plus division and they needed to find a more permanent space and add additional employees. Steve joined the team on November 21st, 1994, and we asked him to reflect on his time with the company:
Evolving Over the Years
Q. What’s the biggest change that you’ve seen in the company since you first started?
A. I began my tenure with the company doing drafting, estimating and bookkeeping, including handling payroll, accounts receivable, accounts payable, etc. Of course, the biggest change in the last 30 years has been the technological advancements, including software for drafting, estimating, and accounting. It is a far cry from my early days drafting on a drafting table with a pencil.
Growth & Learning
Q. What skills or lessons have you gained over the years that have been most valuable to your growth?
A. As the company grew and we started Home Check Plus, more of my time was needed in the office management/human resources/bookkeeping position, which eventually led to my current role as CFO.
Challenges & Triumphs
Q. What challenges have you faced throughout your career, and how did you overcome them?
A. The variety of work duties throughout the years has been challenging at times, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. Constantly learning and challenging yourself is never a bad thing.
Company Impact & Culture
Q. How would you describe the company’s culture and what do you believe is the company’s biggest strength, and how has it influenced your own success?
A. One of the things that was important to me was the fact that the Company was family orientated, meaning I could take time off as needed for my kid’s school functions and athletic events.
Advice and Insights
Q. What advice would you give to someone just starting their career?
A. I feel very fortunate to have been with Dale Gruber Construction for 30 years. While some people believe that the “grass is greener” and change jobs often, I believe in the fact that if you enjoy what you are doing, keep doing it.
As I look back on thirty years, I am grateful Dale took a chance on me and trusted me to become part of the team. While working together and getting to know his family, who would have guessed that his daughter Rachel would become my boss years later.
Words From Our Current and Past President
As the owner of a company, it’s not every day that you have the honor of celebrating an incredible milestone like this one. It’s rare to find someone who embodies the core values of a company as fully as Steve does. Here’s what Rachel, current president/owner and Dale, past president/owner had to say:
“I remember when Steve joined the DGC family when my Dad still officed out of his home. He’s been a pivotal player in the company’s growth and changes over the years. Steve is incredibly trustworthy, loyal and detail-oriented. We’ve worked together more closely these last few years after I purchased the business from my dad – it’s been especially helpful and nice to have him be a resource and guide through the ownership transition. I hope every business owner has someone like Steve on their team – he’s a rare gem! Congratulations, Steve and thank you for all you do for DGC!”
-Rachel Gruber, President & Owner
“Companies are only as good as the team members working together for the good of everyone, whether they are a customer, a vendor, or a fellow team member. Steve has done just that from day one when it was just him and I in the office and continues today. Transitioning from drawing up plans at the beginning of his career at DGC to his current role as CFO. He took all the tasks in stride and made it work. Steve is the most honest, detailed, and dedicated team member that a company could ever hope for. DGC would not be what it is today without Steve. All I can say is thanks Steve for being such a great team member over the years, and for you continuing working with Rachel as the owner and President of DGC.”
-Dale Gruber, Founder
Looking Ahead
As we celebrate 30 years of Steve Raeker’s journey, we also look forward to the future. His experience and wisdom continue to shape the path forward for our company. By recognizing the personal and professional milestones of employees like Steve, we are reminded of the importance of building long-term relationships and investing in the people who make a company great.
Here’s to Steve Raeker – a true testament to the value of loyalty, hard work, and dedication. Congratulations on reaching this incredible milestone. We look forward to more growth and success for you with Dale Gruber Construction!
