Experienced, hardworking employees
The Vanderpools count on a talented, hardworking group of longtime employees to handle jobs like those in an efficient, professional manner.
"Without our employees, we wouldn't be anywhere," acknowledged Toby. "The best thing is, we can pretty much just turn them loose and know they're going to get the job done and get it done right. They treat each job as if it's their own. Just like my dad and me, they take a lot of pride in the final product we put out and that's something I'm not sure every company can say."
In addition to immediate family members involved in the business, Mike's son-in-law Justin Peterson works for Vanderpool Construction. Key field personnel include foremen Gary Mercer, Steve Roush, Randy Aldridge, Justin Chew and Jeff Smith.
"We're a family-owned company and we try to extend that family atmosphere throughout our work force," Mike explained. "I know everybody who works here. They're not just employees; they're friends too. We're able to communicate and that definitely helps us on our jobs."
Equipment that's "as good as it gets"
In order to do quality work in a timely manner, Vanderpool Construction counts on an equipment fleet spearheaded by eight Komatsu hydraulic excavators. The excavators range from a compact PC78MR up to a PC600LC-7, and include a PC400, a PC270 and a total of three tight-tail-swing units.
"In terms of productivity and reliability, we think Komatsu excavators are as good as it gets," asserted Toby. "We got the almost 70-ton PC600 a couple of years ago, partly to improve productivity, but also to improve safety. After going to a 24-foot trench box, we found the PC600 just lifts it right out with no problem whatsoever."
"It makes our work safer for the operator and improves production," Mike contributed. "With the additional capacity of the PC600, our jobs really move along."
Mike says safety and productivity are also why the company likes the Komatsu tight-tail-swing excavators (PC228US, PC128UU and PC78MR).
"Anywhere that space is a consideration, they're great. You can sit there all day and just dig and swing and not worry about hitting anything. If your track misses it, you miss it.".
Jeff (center) is with his crew, son and pipelayer
Brandan Smith (left) and operator Andy Johnstone.
Foreman/operator Jeff Smith uses a Komatsu PC270LC-6 excavator for underground utility work at the Lincoln Ridge residential development in Indianola.