Wisconsin company distances itself from similarly named Idaho group after CEO’s gesture

A Wisconsin design-build firm is distancing itself from a similarly named Idaho construction company after that CEO’s controversial resignation. 

Tom Hill on Monday resigned from his position as CEO of Boise, Idaho-based Engineered Structures Inc. after making a Nazi salute several times on video at a state of the company event over the weekend. He later made a statement apologizing for the gesture and said it was a poor attempt at humor and parodying the current state of politics. 

Hartland, Wisconsin-based ESI Group USA issued a statement Monday morning clarifying it had no connection with Engineered Structures Inc. and were separate entities despite having similar acronyms. 

“ESI Group USA (ESI Group) of Wisconsin would like to clarify that we have no affiliation with Idaho-based Engineered Structures, Inc. (ESI)” said Brad Barke, president and founder of ESI Group, in a statement. 

“At ESI Group, we are committed to upholding the highest standards of respect, integrity and inclusion,” officials said in a statement. “We do not condone the actions referenced in recent news coverage and remain dedicated to fostering a positive, respectful and professional environment for our employees, clients and partners,” they added. 

ESI Group is headquartered in Wisconsin and has built warehouse and distribution facilities across the U.S. The company has regional offices in Nebraska, Pennsylvania and South Carolina. 

In Idaho, Neil Nelson, president of Engineered Structures Inc., assumed role of CEO and chairman of the board, company officials said. Dallis Fontenot was also promoted to chief people officer. The company also started a Corporate Responsibility Task Force, officials added. 

“Our focus now is on healing and moving forward,” Nelson said in a statement. “We are dedicated to ensuring that our mission remains clear and that every decision we make reflects the principles that define (ESI Group). With Dallis’ leadership and the formation of a dedicated Corporate Responsibility Task Force, I am confident we will emerge a more compassionate company,” he added. 

Idaho Business Review editor Marc Lutz also contributed to this report.