At Grade Tech, we don’t just look for people who can do the work; we look for people who are willing to “jump in head first.” We are proud to celebrate the 3-year anniversary of Issac Gonzalez, a Foreman who has turned his passion for travel and hard work into a thriving leadership career.

A Career Built on the Road

Issac’s journey in the trades began in South Dakota, where he balanced taking care of his great-grandfather with prepping concrete for a local contractor. When he returned to Utah, he knew the “dirt world” was where he belonged.

After gaining experience at several excavation companies, Issac was drawn to Grade Tech for a unique reason: the travel.

“I chose GT because of being able to travel,” Issac explains. “I’m single and I have a lot of fun working on the road. I get to live in new cities and new states all the time, and that’s exciting to me.”

Starting as an operator, Issac’s natural leadership was quickly noticed by the Grade Tech executive team. Within his first year, he was recommended for a Junior Foreman role, and by his second year, he had officially stepped into the Foreman position he holds today.

The Daily “Puzzle” of Utility Construction

As a Foreman, Issac’s day starts with a “Take 5” safety briefing before he lines out his crew for the task at hand. Whether he’s in Oregon enjoying the sunshine or navigating a snowy site in Utah, he views every project as a fresh challenge.

“It’s a new puzzle we get to put together every day,” Issac says. “I love watching it all come together, and I’m always ready to hop in and help out whenever needed.”

Advice for Success: Learning with Your Hands

For Issac, success isn’t something that happens on a whiteboard; it happens in the field. His advice for those looking to move up in the trades is to embrace the unknown.

“Jump in head first, even when things don’t make sense,” he advises. “Sometimes it doesn’t make sense on paper, but it will as you start working it out with your hands. Start doing the work and learn.”

Giving Back: Melanoma Research Alliance (MRA)

In honor of his 3-year anniversary, Grade Tech is proud to donate $1,000 to the Melanoma Research Alliance (MRA) in Issac’s name. This cause is deeply personal to Issac, who lost a close friend to melanoma at just 25 years old.

Issac chose the MRA specifically for their efficiency and impact. Because the organization’s founders cover all administrative costs, 100% of Grade Tech’s donation will go directly to scientific research. Since 2007, the MRA has funded research linked to every single one of the 17 new FDA-approved melanoma treatments, fundamentally changing survival rates for patients worldwide.

Exploring the Horizon

When he isn’t leading a crew, Issac is a traveler at heart. He spends his weekends exploring the local culture of wherever the job takes him—working out, hiking, and finding the best local food. Currently stationed in Oregon, he’s enjoying being just 20 minutes away from the vibrant food scene in Portland.

Issac, thank you for your grit, your willingness to lead, and your dedication to the Grade Tech mission. We’re excited to see where the road takes you next!

Want to build a career on the road? View our open positions.