Mike Crawford, CEO of Sukut Construction Inc., California’s largest mass excavation and grading contracting firm, has been selected as one of the top 25 newsmakers for 2006 by Engineering News-Record. This is the world’s most revered industry publication.
The honor recognizes Crawford for innovations and achievements that serve the best interest of the construction industry in general.
In particular, the editors applauded Crawford for taking the lead in reducing air pollution from the company’s large fleet of earthmovers well in advance of new state regulations on off-road vehicles, and proving that contractors can profit from cleaner air.
Starting in 2000, when cleaner Tier One engines became available, Crawford made the decision to stop rebuilding old engines and instead replace them with the new model. Crawford also set loose his team to create innovative “field kits” which allow Sukut engineers to replace engines in three days right at the job site rather than hauling equipment to a dealership where costly downtime would run into months. To pay for the overhaul, Crawford tapped into state grant programs and spent millions of the company’s own profits over the past six years so that by end of 2007, he expects Sukut’s 250-vehicle fleet will be run on an average of Tier One or better quality engines.
Crawford’s foresight has put the company in one of the best positions to meet California’s forthcoming rules to reduce off-road diesel emissions by 85 percent.
“Crawford's firm has set a positive example for contractors around the country, by keeping a step ahead of regulators and helping to rid California of harmful emissions,” ENR editors said.
Crawford will be honored March 28 at the Marriott Marquis Hotel in New York City. One of the selected 25 top newsmakers also will receive the Award of Excellence, ENR’s highest honor, and will be featured on its April 2 cover.
Sukut Construction is nationally known for its work on residential developments, golf courses, storm water drainage systems, landfill construction, environmental cleanups, land stabilization and heavy highway construction. It moves 150 million cubic yards of earth yearly. With 600 employees and 30 major projects, Sukut earned more than $250 million in 2006 and ranks as the 224th largest construction firm in the U.S. For almost 40 years, the company has won more than 30 industry awards, including Contractor of the Year and Best Company to Work For. It is headquarted in Santa Ana with offices in Oceanside and Los Angeles.
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