Our employee of the month series, Blueprint for Excellence, shines a spotlight on our team members who go above and beyond, lead by example, and champion our core values in everything they do.
This month, Memphis Stone & Gravel, A Granite Company, is proud to recognize Brayden Sommer, a skilled laborer on the environmental crew, whose reliable support, willingness to learn, and steady work ethic have made a meaningful impact in just a year and a half with the company.
In a short time, Brayden has built a reputation as someone who does not hesitate to step in where he is needed most. As priorities have shifted across the team, he has been willing to support large projects and take on work outside of his day-to-day responsibilities, all while bringing a steady and team-first mindset to the job.
“Brayden definitely embodies humility. He’s willing to do whatever needs to be done, and he’s a big team player,” said Corbin Moore, Director of Exploration and Planning.
That humility shows up in the way Brayden approaches each task, whether supporting erosion control, reclamation and seeding efforts, helping maintain environmental standards or assisting with new processes in the field. Corbin also noted Brayden’s integrity, describing him as someone who is mindful of what needs to be done, thoughtful about what the company expects and responsible in the way he carries out his work.
Brayden’s role has also grown through his support of stormwater management efforts, including work to help develop the team’s process for spraying ponds and testing water before discharge. That ownership reflects his commitment to environmental stewardship and his willingness to help the team continue improving how this work is managed across the company.
Channing Lennon, Mining Engineer, echoed that same respect for Brayden’s initiative. “He’s stepped up when we asked him to go do projects while carrying a positive, forward-thinking attitude,” Channing shared. “He’s pushed the envelope of ownership for environmental stewardship for the Memphis Stone & Gravel team to be even more proactive in our day-to-day environmental management.”
Beyond the work itself, Brayden has also shown leadership in how he supports those around him. Channing noted that Brayden stepped up as a mentor for a newer member of the drill team, helping foster a positive and lasting culture.
Stephen Esparza, Exploration Crew Lead, also pointed to Brayden’s humility and willingness to go above and beyond. “He helps others when in need and is one of the first to step up to any task at hand,” Stephen shared.
From supporting environmental work to helping strengthen the team around him, Brayden continues to show what it means to lead through action. His hard work, follow-through and commitment to our core values have already made a strong impression, and his team sees a bright future ahead as he continues to grow in the field.
Congratulations, Brayden, and thank you for the humility, integrity and ownership you bring to Memphis Stone & Gravel each day!
Memphis Stone & Gravel is a wholly owned subsidiary of Granite Construction. Learn more at https://www.graniteconstruction.com/company/our-brands.