Here at Huff, we look to build a strong well-rounded foundation for employees by allowing them to learn every aspect of the business through what we call the “Huff Way.”
Garrett has been a great example of the “Huff Way.” He has had the opportunity to work his way up through various positions from the ground floor. Garrett has been around Huff Construction his whole life and officially started working at Huff in October of 2018. Before working at Huff, Garrett attended the University of Arizona, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Urban and Regional Development with a minor in Business Administration. Get to know more about Garrett by reading below.
Name: Garrett Ardis
Title: Project Manager
Hire Date: October 2018
Where are you from?
I was born and raised in Modesto, California.
What is your job and tell me about your recent promotion?
I am a Project Manager. Before my promotion, I was assisting project managers and managed manpower vehicles as well as worked on small projects. Now I am managing my own projects with an on-sight superintendent. I am now more focused on the budgetary aspect of the job and making sure the project is constructed correctly.
What did you do before working at Huff Construction?
I worked in commercial real estate for PMZ.
What makes you excited to go to work in the morning?
The wide variety of tasks that construction has to offer every day. Each day differs from the last which makes me excited and keeps me on my toes. I love problem-solving and every day has a new challenge to overcome. At the end of a project, I get to see a complete physical result of my hard work and that makes it all worth it.
What’s your favorite part about working at Huff?
The team! There is a good relationship between the guys in the field and the office staff. I am also lucky to have a great boss that gives me a long leash and allows me to learn and problem-solve. We are not micromanaged but we get support when needed and I thrive well in that type of environment.
What has surprised you about working at Huff?
I always figured that the construction industry was regimented but I didn’t know just how serious of an industry it really was until I actually started working at Huff. After coming from the real estate industry, it was a bit of a change for me but I really enjoy that aspect of the job, it allows me to stay organized and on top of my projects in the best way possible.
What has been your proudest moment at Huff?
My proudest moment thus far has probably been my work on Joe’s Premium Carwash. To be able to lead the design-build process, hire the design staff, go through every meeting step-by-step, direct the team out there to build the building, and now to the point where the car wash is open and running. I really enjoyed the whole process and having a successful outcome feels good.
Are there certain personality traits or skills that do well at Huff?
Yes, people who are hardworking, passionate, thick-skinned, determined, focused, resilient, and most importantly have great problem-solving skills.
What do you enjoy most about being a part of a family business?
I have gone my whole life knowing members of the Huff team whether it’s relatives or long-time employees. I have always had great personal respect for them but I have gained a newfound professional respect for them now that I have actually gotten to see firsthand the hard work that they put in.
Why are family Businesses are important?
For generations, we have seen family businesses being important to the growth of our local economy. Economies around the world thrive off of family-owned companies. Being able to be taught by your own father, to learn from his successes and failures in business is a great opportunity to be given to anyone. To pass down those types of skills in the business world is important for future generations.
What are your favorite things to do outside of work?
I enjoy golfing, watching sports, barbecuing, traveling, working out, and spending time with my animals.
What is on your bucket list?
I would like to have the opportunity to travel to Europe one day.
Where is your favorite place to eat?
Kimos in Maui. Kimos has the best views and the best Sashimi.
Any random facts you could share with us?
I have been playing the guitar for 17 years.
Where is your favorite place to travel to?
Tahoe!