Alexa Schraut, Jesus Espinoza win the September 2026 Core Value Awards
Alexa Schraut, Project Engineer, has won the September 2026 Core Values Award. KA's Eric Olson submitted the nomination from Erin Johnson, which reads:
“As we work to wrap up my Elk River tenant improvement work, I wanted to share that Alexa has taken this on as if she’s assigned to PM everything. I know she’s wearing a lot of hats this summer with her estimating work as well, but she shows so much initiative.
1. Alexa scheduled all our meetings. She’s the KA rep who shows up on site for every walk through.
2. Alexa has been following up with subs on pricing quotes and alternates.
3. Alexa took all the KA notes on our final walk thru punch list on Tuesday.
4. For several weekly project meetings when Jon couldn’t attend, Alexa ran the meetings.
5. Alexa provided dates on schedule updates weekly.
6. I’ve noticed that for any on site questions, I hear superintendent Brady tell me that he “called Alexa”. I think that speaks volumes.
7. Alexa follows up. Quickly. We had a couple missed details on final punch and no one could understand how drip edge was missed. Alexa went back to the office after our AM punch and found all the communication, submittal comments and shared them with me by 1pm.
I’m working on several remodel items at Mercy Specialty and Healthcare and I know Alexa has been involved behind the scenes working on the estimating. I look forward to having her on more of my projects. She has really acted like the client facing, available and responsive project manager on my Elk River job and has kept everything going.”
Erin Johnson
Project Manager- Facilities Project Management, Allina Health
Jesus Espinoza, Laborer/Safety Champion, has also won the September 2026 Core Values Award. KA's Trey Kopacz submitted the nomination, which reads:
“Jesus has been the most consistent KA face at the MPS North High School project and has been committed to doing his part-and then some-to ensure its success from the start.
“MPS staff regularly commend his integrity, teamwork, and reliability. As we wrap up construction on this project, MPS staff are not ready to see him go. They want everyone to know how much they appreciate his efforts, and I am echoing that appreciation with this nomination.
“I am thankful and appreciate his willingness to adapt, take on new assignments, and grow his relationship with all stakeholders. Jesus’ everyday actions embody KA’s core values and purpose, and he is well deserving of the KA Core Values Recognition.”
About the Kraus-Anderson Core Values Award
The KA Core Values Award is presented monthly to two KA employees. Nominated by their peers, business partners, and clients, award recipients are selected based on their representation and practice of KA’s core values:
Integrity: Do the right thing; always be respectful, honest, and fair
Commitment: Take ownership, work hard, and keep promises
Teamwork: Collaborate to foster trust and success for all
Value People: Support each other in a safe, positive environment where people are recognized and appreciated for their contributions
CATEGORY: Awards