Careers: Success Stories

VP Client Management

Nate Beard

My journey to GSI started with a realization. I wanted to do more than design projects; I wanted to be hands-on in bringing them to life. As a civil engineer in consulting, I saw contractors implementing our ideas and benefiting from the innovations we created. I wanted to be part of the process, from concept to construction, directly impacting the work and the people it serves.

That opportunity came when Al Ruckman, one of GSI’s founders, invited me to breakfast. He introduced the idea of joining GSI as one of its first engineering hires, a chance to shape the company’s future and directly influence its projects. I started as a design engineer, and because we were a small team, I quickly took on more responsibility. Over time, I moved into leadership roles, becoming the director of our eastern region, then Chief Operating Officer, and eventually Vice President of Client Management.

Each transition brought new challenges that required me to grow. Moving from design engineering to operations meant shifting from technical problem-solving to managing people, logistics, and business strategy. Leading teams through complex projects taught me how to adapt, collaborate across disciplines, and drive innovation while maintaining strong client relationships.

Looking ahead, I see my career continuing to evolve. The skills and experience I have gained at GSI have prepared me for any leadership opportunity, whether continuing to contribute to GSI’s mission or stepping into a CEO role at another growing company. GSI’s commitment to continuous improvement and leadership development has set me up for long-term success.

What makes GSI unique is the environment it creates. The challenges we face push us to innovate and improve, allowing employees to take ownership of their work and contribute to solutions that impact communities. As the company grows, it is not just about taking on more projects but about deepening our expertise, expanding our capabilities, and creating opportunities for every team member to thrive.

Digital Marketing Specialist

Jenn Blevins

When I joined GSI, I was looking for more than just a job; I wanted to be part of something meaningful. From day one, I saw a company that valued its people, encouraged growth, and had a mission that truly made a difference. The sense of community and GSI’s commitment to protecting infrastructure and lives made it clear this was where I belonged.

I started 2018 as a marketing specialist and conference coordinator, managing events and marketing initiatives. Over time, I transitioned into proposal development, securing statewide contracts that are still active today. In 2023, I took on a new challenge—moving into digital marketing. Though it was an area I had limited experience, GSI’s philosophy of “Hire for character and talent; teach skills” allowed me to grow. I quickly gained expertise in SEO, PPC, analytics, UX optimization, and email marketing, ultimately leading the launch of three new websites for GSI, Access Limited, and RoadGuard.

Watching GSI grow from 180 employees to over 800 has been an incredible experience. This rapid expansion has created endless opportunities for innovation and career advancement. I look forward to mentoring new content creators and continuing to shape our digital strategy.

What makes GSI different is its ability to empower employees at every level. I’m proud to be part of a company that values innovation, invests in its people, and continues to evolve with purpose.

Senior Manager, Sales Insights and Strategy

Eric Echternacht

What drew me to GSI was its winner’s mentality and growth mindset. When I learned about its core values and ownership model, I knew it was the right fit.

I started as an FP&A Manager on a lean team, overseeing everything from traditional FP&A to Strategic Finance. Over time, I have taken on broader leadership roles, leading Finance, Accounting, and Sales Operations teams. One of the most rewarding aspects of my journey has been mentoring future leaders and helping them navigate their careers. In five years, I see myself leading one of our product teams, and GSI is helping me get there through new challenges, mentorship, and structured development plans.

What sets GSI apart is the collective hunger. There is a drive here that fuels innovation, progress, and success. Growth is not just about the company expanding; it creates opportunities for people to step up, take on bigger roles, and improve daily. If that mindset resonates with you, this is the place to be.

Soil Superintendent

Jason Gaston

I wasn’t looking for just any job; I wanted something better that challenged me. When I came across GSI on Indeed, their core value of “hire for attitude, train for skill” immediately stood out. My father always told me that the right mindset is everything, and GSI’s approach to growth and development made it clear this was the place for me.

I started as a GMT 1 despite having previous drilling experience. I wanted to build a strong foundation and ensure I learned everything from the ground up. That mindset paid off, as I’m now a superintendent for Soils East. Along the way, I took on roles that pushed me, including becoming a field trainer early in my career. Training people in new and effective ways was challenging, but it taught me how to lead. Since then, every project has pushed me to think outside the box and grow as a problem solver.

In five years, I see myself as a general superintendent, and GSI gives me the tools to get there. The company invests in its people, promotes from within, and constantly provides training and mentorship. Leadership is always accessible, as this is the first company I’ve worked for where employees can call the CEO and share their thoughts.

GSI’s growth is exciting because it’s not just about profit. It’s about getting better: safer job sites, better equipment, improved training, and keeping people closer to home. We hold to our values: Safety > Quality > Production.

Senior Superintendent Soils

Larry Grant

I heard about GSI through Joe Waycaster and decided to take a chance. That decision changed everything. I started as a Tech 1 and am now a Senior Superintendent.

The constant challenge keeps me engaged. Every project pushes me to think differently and find new ways to overcome obstacles. I love figuring out solutions and growing through the process.

Looking ahead, I see myself as a General Superintendent. GSI makes that goal possible by providing hands-on training, mentorship, and opportunities like GeoLearn to keep developing my skills.

The best part of working here? Everyone has a chance to move up quickly. GSI is a place where hard work and determination open doors and the opportunity to do better and achieve greatness is always within reach.

Service Line Manager

Kaitlin Lane

I first heard about GSI in an unexpected way, on a ski lift in Montana. Dominic and I struck up a conversation, and when I mentioned my master’s degree and interest in moving to Denver, he encouraged me to apply. As I went through the interview process, I realized GSI was the perfect place to combine my analytical and marketing skills in a fast-growing company.

I joined as a Service Line Manager, a unique role that blends business development, data analysis, and market strategy. While I am part of the marketing team, I focus not on traditional content but on laying the groundwork before promotional efforts begin. I have played a key role in shaping the 2025 company strategy, conducting market research, launching new service lines, driving branding initiatives, and developing resources to empower our sales team. Collaboration is at the core of what I do, ensuring that a broad understanding of our market and business opportunities informs every decision.

Every project presents new challenges. Market analysis and problem-solving are rarely straightforward, which pushes me to think creatively and adapt to unexpected obstacles. Leading a cross-functional team to launch a new service has been one of my most valuable experiences, helping me refine my leadership style and develop my ability to align teams toward a common goal.

In five years, I want to be in a position where I can elevate those around me, creating a meaningful impact through mentorship and leadership. GSI is helping me get there by providing opportunities to lead, navigate different perspectives, and strengthen my strategic thinking. One of the most exciting parts of working at GSI is the level of collaboration. Being part of an employee-owned company has given me a new perspective on how a business operates, and working across multiple departments has pushed me to expand my skill set. The company’s rapid growth has created opportunities I never expected to have this early in my career.

Beyond the work itself, I appreciate the competitive spirit of the team. Whether it is tackling complex business challenges or hosting our annual cornhole tournament in the Denver office, the drive to improve and succeed is what makes GSI such a great place to be.

Field Trainer

Vernetta Lionel

Before joining GSI, I had no idea the rockfall industry even existed. What stood out to me was the company’s commitment to its people, not just in career opportunities but in health, wellness, and safety. When GSI’s recruitment team reached out on LinkedIn, I was impressed by their investment in employees, from gym passes to top-tier gear. With 12 years of rope access experience, it felt like the right place to grow.

I started as a Rockfall Tech, gaining hands-on experience in drilling, mesh fencing, and grouting. As I took on more responsibility, I became a lead tech, worked with the safety team on rope access protocols, and helped train new hires. After pitching the idea of in-house SPRAT training to Brian McNeal, I now lead monthly training sessions, saving the company time and resources.

Each challenge has pushed me forward. I’m refining my teaching skills to make SPRAT training more effective, and in five years, I hope to serve as a SPRAT board member while leading my own safety-focused department. GSI has always provided the training and support to make growth possible.

The best part? No matter how much GSI expands, the company stays committed to its core values, supporting its people, fostering teamwork, and prioritizing safety.

Project Development Engineer

Sara Magallon

After completing a Master’s in Geological Engineering, I wanted to find a company that balanced my technical expertise with hands-on experience. GSI offered the perfect combination of field and office work, allowing me to apply my skills meaningfully. Our work: developing solutions that directly impact public safety aligned with my passion for engineering with real-world impact.

I first heard about GSI through my graduate school career fair, though I missed it due to TA duties. A friend who interned with the company spoke highly of her experience, which piqued my interest. After researching GSI’s values and projects, I knew it was the right place for me.

I started as a project engineer, spending significant time in the field collaborating with engineers, project managers, operations teams, and clients. This experience gave me a strong foundation in project execution. Over time, I transitioned into a design-focused role before moving into project development engineering, where I now manage client relationships and oversee projects from inception to completion.

Every project at GSI presents new challenges, pushing me to grow in unexpected ways. My field experience prepared me to navigate complex project scopes, communicate effectively, and find solutions alongside a supportive team. The fast-paced, ever-evolving environment keeps the work engaging, ensuring continuous learning and adaptation.

In five years, I see myself continuing to refine my expertise in project development, growing in confidence, and taking on even more responsibility. GSI’s culture of continuous learning, mentorship, and hands-on experience makes that growth possible. As the company expands, it creates new opportunities to streamline operations, enhance accountability, and refine processes—all of which contribute to long-term success for employees and clients.

At GSI, no two days are the same. If you thrive in a dynamic environment that challenges you to grow, this is the place to build a rewarding career.

Rail Project Delivery Manager

Blake Paez

Some careers follow a straight path—mine has been an evolution.
I was drawn to geotechnical engineering in school, and when a fellow alum introduced me to GSI, I saw an opportunity to turn that passion into something tangible. I started as a Project Manager I, but my career quickly took off. I have moved through roles, from Project Manager II to Senior PM, Project Delivery Manager, and now Rail Program Manager. Each step has pushed me to grow in ways I never expected.
One of the most rewarding parts of my journey has been leading a team, while one of the most challenging was learning an entirely new project management methodology. But that’s what makes GSI different. It’s a place that pushes you to do more, think bigger, and step outside your comfort zone.
Five years ago, I couldn’t have predicted where I’d be today. Five years from now? I know I’ll still continue to learn, grow, and take on new challenges. That’s the kind of career GSI makes possible.

Director Business Development and Estimating

Kyle Thompson

When approached about joining GSI, I looked into the company and was quickly drawn to the challenging projects, unique locations, and the impact of mitigating public hazards. The design-build approach stood out, bridging the gap between engineering and field operations. Around the same time, a former colleague shared insights about his work at GSI, sparking my interest. When an opportunity opened for a Regional Director role, I decided to take the leap.

My journey with GSI has been an exciting one. I started as the Regional Director for Canada, overseeing sales, preconstruction, estimating, engineering, project management, operations, and safety. In 2023, the company restructured, and I transitioned to Sales Director for the West US and Canada, where I focused on demand generation and preconstruction efforts. That role allowed me to work on projects across North America and strengthen client relationships. Most recently, in 2025, I took on the Director of Business Development and Estimating role, focusing on expanding GSI’s presence in bid-to-specification projects while overseeing central estimating.

Each role has come with new challenges, whether solving complex technical issues or adapting leadership strategies to support my team. I’ve learned that success depends on understanding what the client truly needs, whether that client is external or internal. GSI has been instrumental in helping me grow by identifying my strengths and areas for improvement, providing development plans, and offering ongoing mentorship.

Looking five years ahead, it’s tough to say what my role will be because GSI is growing rapidly, and new opportunities are constantly emerging. I know I’ll take on greater responsibilities, lead larger teams, and play a key role in GSI’s continued growth.

Working at GSI means moving fast. As an emergency response company, we have to make decisions quickly, and being a design-build firm allows us to do that efficiently. The culture here is one of continuous improvement; everyone has a voice, and we’re encouraged to challenge the status quo to improve things.

The best part of GSI’s growth is the plethora of opportunities. As the company continues to expand, so do the possibilities for career advancement. We need great people to drive success, and at GSI, those people are given the chance to grow with the company.

Project Manager

Ryan Yost

My journey with GSI began through the integration of the RoadGuard companies, which introduced me to the team and the opportunities within the organization. Since then, I have been a Project Manager with RoadGuard, continuously learning and growing with the support of those around me.

Every day brings new challenges, and taking on different roles has helped me expand my knowledge of the business. It keeps the work exciting and pushes me to develop new skills. In five years, I see myself taking on a more prominent role within RoadGuard, increasing my responsibilities and contributing even more to the company’s success. GSI is helping me reach that goal by providing daily challenges, leadership opportunities, and a strong support system.

If I had to describe my career in one sentence, it is fast-paced and much like a Swiss Army knife: versatile, adaptable, and constantly evolving. Working at RoadGuard means thinking on your feet, solving problems quickly, and sometimes pulling a rabbit out of a hat to get the job done.

The best part of being here is the culture of support and expectation for growth. There are always ambitious goals to reach for, and that drive for constant improvement makes every day an opportunity to move forward.