Tom Michels Wins Mission Vision Award

Tom Michels received the Kraus-Anderson Construction Company Safety Mission/Vision Award for the first quarter of 2016.

Tom is a project superintendent in the Bemidji office. Steve Trudeau, senior project manager in the Bemidji office, nominated Tom for his safety leadership on the Windom Area Hospital project.

What Did Tom’s Nominator Say?

“Tom does a fantastic job and approaches safety as a culture of accountability, rather than a task to check off a list. He is unwavering in managing field safety and integrates KA standards into day-to-day jobsite operations.

Tom is dedicated to getting everyone home each night in the same, or better, condition than when they arrived. He communicates and enforces KA safety expectations with each employee and all subcontractors.

‘Tom always keeps safety at the forefront and, when challenged,’ adds Jim Bergren, general superintendent, ‘his response is direct and informative, and he is not afraid to issue verbal or written warnings when warranted.’

Tom’s process and commitment are so respected that other subcontractors’ field personnel often send him photos of safety concerns on their cell phones.

Tom is always willing to take action when safety issues arise, with a people-first approach that reflects KA’s core value of valuing people.

Jake Leoni, safety coordinator, adds, ‘He always looks out for the best interests of KA and our business partners by maintaining a safe jobsite for all and holding employees accountable for safe work practices.’”

Steve Trudeau
Senior Project Manager

The Mission/Vision Awards

The KA Mission/Vision Program identifies and recognizes employee activities that reflect and support KA’s core purpose: Building Enduring Relationships and Strong Communities.

Tom’s award recognizes his consistent jobsite safety leadership, accountability and commitment to protecting project teams and trade partners. Learn more about the Windom Area Hospital surgical suite and outreach clinic project, construction safety culture and superintendent leadership development.

For additional workplace safety resources, visit the Occupational Safety and Health Administration construction industry page.