Today we’d like to introduce you to Russ and Jo Baumgartner.
Russ was taught general engineering, the concrete trades and good business practices by working in his father’s company; Concrete Contractors Interstate (CCI) of Colorado. His father started CCI in 1958 in Brighton, CO and within 17 years turned it into a transit mix corporation, a sand and gravel corporation and a concrete ready mix plant. In addition to developing a strong work ethic and skill set, he inherited a true entrepreneurial spirit from his father. He earned a degree with honors in Civil Engineering from Colorado State University.
By the time he was 26, he opened up a branch in San Diego, CA. In 1986 he has evolved CCI into a dynamic business with specialized departments that could each stand alone as an independent company. CCI specialized in all aspects of concrete; parking structures, structural retrofit, decorative site work and turn-key street improvements. As he is always focused on the progression of CCI, He ensures that his companies are always leading the industry by developing proprietary concrete systems and patenting innovations.
In 201,3 he developed a unique retaining wall system (patent pending) that will change the future in retaining wall construction; The iCON Wall Solution. Most retaining walls are built vertically, which makes it difficult to enhance decoratively. The iCON Wall solution came from a desire to create a retaining wall that was more than functional. Constructing an iCON Wall is similar to decorative flatwork, the panels are formed on the ground. Once the panels are cured, they are erected by crane and secured with CCI’s proprietary buttress system. Some of the decorative finishes can be from a simple design to modern and polished and even mosaic. Russ’s wife and business partner Jo (VP Business Development and Creative Services) creates the look and design for CCI.
Russ and Jo call it “Function and Form”. Russ takes care of the function, while Jo enhances the form.
CCI has grown to about 60 employees with many of them have been with CCI for over 20 years. From apprentice to Project Manager to President
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Russ is very pleased with the reputation that CCI has earned over the years. It has not always been a smooth road when a recession arises. Thankfully CCI has overcome all recessions since starting business in 1986.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
Russ describes success through his outstanding employees. Without everyone on his team, CCI would not be what it is known for today. In addition, success for Russ is also all about family, His wife and business partner Jo have a 17-year-old daughter and a 15-year-old son.
Contact Info:
- Address: 12599 Stotler Court, Poway
- Website: www.seicci.com
- Phone: 858-679-5550
- Email: russelb@seicci.com jo@seicci.com
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