In the “dirt world,” success isn’t handed to you—it’s built. Today, we are proud to celebrate the 3-year anniversary of Kicen Keller, a Foreman whose rapid ascent at Grade Tech is a testament to what happens when you pair a strong work ethic with a hunger for knowledge.

Building a Foundation in the Trades

Kicen’s journey began in West Jordan, Utah. While most high school seniors were trying to figure out their next move, Kicen was already on a framing crew, learning the ropes of the trades. After graduation, he moved into pipe laying before finding his home at Grade Tech.

Why Grade Tech? For Kicen, it was about the path forward. “I saw more opportunities for growth and experience with traveling at GT,” Kicen says. He didn’t just want a job; he wanted to see how far his skills could take him.

The “Always Be Learning” Mindset

If you ask Kicen what a typical day looks like, he won’t just list tasks. He describes a mindset: Better yourself.

“There is always a new daily focus on how to better yourself,” Kicen explains. “Always learning something new—how to be better at your job and how to better the people around you.”

This philosophy is exactly how Kicen moved from a laborer to a Foreman. His advice for anyone entering the trades is simple but powerful: Learn the job above you.

“Pay attention, be dedicated, and learn the next guy’s job,” he advises. “To be a good leader, I know we all have to learn from each other. Every single one of the guys on my crew has something for me to learn.”

Seeing the Fruit of the Hard Work

One of the most rewarding aspects of the utility civil world is the tangible result of the grind. For Kicen, there is nothing like the transformation of a job site.

“I love seeing the start to finish,” Kicen says. “Showing up to a brand new job when it’s nothing but a mountain, and when you’re finished, there’s a substation there. You can see the fruit of all your hard work.” While the hardest part of the job is being away from home, Kicen finds purpose in the physical difference his team makes every day across the Western U.S.

Giving Back: Angel’s Hands Foundation

In honor of his 3-year anniversary, Grade Tech is proud to donate $1,000 to the Angel’s Hands Foundation in Kicen’s name.

This Utah-based non-profit improves the quality of life for individuals living with rare and undiagnosed diseases. Kicen’s connection to the charity comes through his lifelong passion for hockey. He has participated in the Angel’s Hands Charity Hockey Tournament for years, combining his love for the sport with a mission to help families facing unique medical challenges.

Life Off the Ice and Off the Clock

When he isn’t leading a crew, Kicen is likely on the ice or out on the water. A hockey player for over 15 years, he also enjoys fishing and spending quality time with his family.

Kicen, thank you for your dedication and your leadership. You represent the very best of Grade Tech’s “Professional Grit.” Here’s to many more years of building the future!