With a strong foundation built on people, quality craftsmanship, and innovation, Plateau Excavation has become a leader in tackling advanced, large-scale and complex site development projects, but it is our people that truly make the difference and have moved the company forward.

Today’s Plateau People Spotlight is Senior Project Manager, Sean Whitaker

• How many years have you been at plateau? 25 years as of May 1^st this year and collectively with the same coworkers. As part of the Aiken Grading employees we were absorbed by Plateau Excavation in 2011 and in 2019 we all became a part of the Sterling Company family.
•  What’s your job title? Senior Project Manager
•  What exactly do you do at our company? What do you need ?! The goal is to be a liaison between the field and office. Move accurate information as efficiently as possible to keep the project moving forward and being successful.
•  So far, what has been your favorite project? That is tough. They all have unique stories to tell and learning experiences. Especially the difficult ones. What I appreciate is growing some of the friendships and relationships I currently have that didn’t necessarily start off that well. Both internally and outside of Plateau. The goal is to always finish strong together.
•  What is it about you that most folks don’t know? That’s a secret !! My desire was to either be in a band or some form of IT. I love technology and electronic music. All forms of music. It is my internal support system. There is always a song in my head.
•  How would you describe your team or the people you work with? Approachable Supportive Resilient Knowledgeable Moral, A family in all aspects. They will call you out but also prop you up when needed.
•  What advice would you provide to someone interested in getting into this industry? Over communicate !! Be motivated to do what is needed at any time. Have the uncomfortable conversation sooner than later. Only get asked to do something once or just take the initiative to do what is needed. Be the best at troubleshooting.
•  What is your favorite aspect about your job, Plateau, or the industry? I have been able to touch on just about every personal interest, even though being in the construction industry is not where I ever saw my future self.
•  What drew you to Plateau originally? And how has Plateau changed since? What’s kept you here? I was given an opportunity to work in the survey industry in 1992 without having those skills. I started at Aiken Grading in 1998 with that experience and, along with mentorship, it helped me transition to the office as an estimator and later as a PM. Our leadership encourages new ideas and forward thinking. I have been able to assist with the structure and technology needed from building a standardized file system, growing a network into a full server, and adapting our initial online presence. I have been able to be involved in the software applications we use to work remotely or move plans/files electronically and track materials/work for payment. I was able to fly drones on our sites for data when only a few were aware of that benefit. I get to troubleshoot on a daily basis. I am able to indulge in my personal interests while sweating and getting dirty in the field. The flexibility keeps my interest, the people and support keep me sat down in my seat here every day. That will never change!!
•  What is something unique about you (a fun fact) that few people are aware of? I dream of wires!! I am a gamer and read comic books. My heroes are Steve Jobs, Trent Reznor and Spider-Man…

Advice from Sean,

“Be consistent in who you are. If everything looks the same then people know what to expect. Inject your own personal interests in what you have to do every day.”