After over 30 years with Kinsley Construction, Steve Henry, equipment fleet manager, is retiring!
Steve’s path into construction started long before he joined Kinsley Construction. After graduating from Dallastown High School, he wasn’t quite sure what he wanted to do, but he knew he enjoyed working with his hands. He began building houses in 1979 and spent the next several years developing his skills in construction, equipment operation and pipework. Along the way, he worked for several local contractors, including Miller-Warner Construction, and credits Bill Warner as an important mentor who helped shape his career.
Steve eventually crossed paths with Kinsley Construction when our team was building his sister’s home. Asked to jump in and help with the project, Steve completed the grading work and soon after was approached about joining Kinsley Construction full-time. Looking for an opportunity closer to home, Steve made the move to Kinsley Construction in 1995 and started as a pipe foreman. Three years later, he transitioned into office work as pipe superintendent, overseeing the company’s pipe crews.
Over the years, Steve’s role continued to evolve alongside the company. From pipework and equipment to dispatch, purchasing trucks, earthwork and facility maintenance, he took on just about every challenge that came his way. “I try not to say no,” Steve said. Whether it was solving a problem, fixing a water main break or taking care of one of the many odds and ends that keep a company running, Steve was always willing to step up. Looking back, he says it has been “cool to see the company grow.”
While Steve is proud of the many things he accomplished during his career, it’s the people he’ll miss the most. He’ll miss the teams he worked alongside and the everyday interactions that made coming to work something he enjoyed. He’s also enjoyed watching the next generation grow into their roles. “The guys have a good head on their shoulders and it makes me really proud,” he said.
Steve has seen a lot of change during his career at Kinsley Construction. When he started, our founder, Bob Kinsley and the five Kinsley brothers were working together, and Steve remembers those early days as if they were yesterday. Through all the growth and change, he says Kinsley Construction has always given him all the opportunities in the world to learn, take on new challenges and become the person he wanted to be. He’s grateful for the many people who supported him and helped shape his career along the way, especially Chris Kinsley, Jim Shaffer, Barry Fauth and Kem Vaught.
For those beginning their careers in construction, Steve’s advice is simple: “Work hard, take on responsibility and do what’s right.” He also has no hesitation recommending Kinsley Construction to the next generation. “If you’re going to work construction, Kinsley Construction is the only place to work. We’re so versatile and the resources are unbelievable.”
As Steve begins retirement, he’s looking forward to slowing down, traveling and spending more time with his wife, kids and granddaughter.
Steve, congratulations on your retirement! Thank you for your hard work, dedication and always being willing to step up. We’re grateful for everything you’ve contributed to Kinsley Construction and we wish you all the best in this next chapter!