Matt Blandford has led Andersen Construction’s Idaho operations for two years, overseeing commercial construction management across Idaho and the Pacific Northwest. His most significant recent accomplishment entailed two major workloads internally and externally.

“Andersen’s Idaho team successfully launched our concrete division while simultaneously completing our largest regional projects to date,” Blandford said. “We take great pride in doing everything as a team, which is one of our nine core values.”

A University of Idaho graduate with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, and master’s degree in structural engineering from West Virginia University, Blandford holds licenses as both a professional engineer and construction manager, plus LEED AP BD+C certification.

He grew up working for his father’s and a friend’s father’s construction companies in Alaska, spending his entire career in construction-related roles. His projects span health care, multifamily housing, education and agricultural life sciences sectors.

“Once construction grasps onto you, it’s hard to imagine doing anything else,” he said. “There is something invitingly calming about a late-night concrete pour.”

Jon Clark has led EarthCraft Construction Design Build for 13 years, specializing in sustainable straw-bale construction methods. A U.S. Marine Corps veteran and licensed general contractor in multiple states, his most significant recent accomplishment has been educating people about green building practices and straw-bale construction benefits.

“The ability to educate people about the straw bale building method and share what green building means to me personally,” Clark said. “This opportunity to advocate for sustainable construction practices has allowed me to combine my passion for building with my commitment to environmental stewardship.”

After serving multiple deployments as a Marine scout sniper, Clark worked under a respected Louisiana builder before coming to Boise to learn green building techniques from Mark “Ron” Hixson, from whom he later purchased the company.

His work aligns with Boise’s Climate Action Roadmap toward carbon neutrality. Clark’s biggest challenge has been personal growth as a leader.

“I challenge myself daily to be the kind of person I would want to follow into battle,” he said.

Kenneth Elumbaugh has spent 35 years in construction, with seven years as founder and owner of Pacific North Contractors in Caldwell. The third-generation company, started by his father Charles 45 years ago, specializes in commercial and retail construction, particularly fueling stations and convenience stores.

His most significant recent accomplishment was leading PNC to complete high-profile C-Store projects across Idaho and Montana, including a 2,872-square-foot LoanMax remodel delivered within 85 days and 5% under budget, achieving a 98% client satisfaction rate.

“This achievement strengthened our reputation for efficiency and reliability,” Elumbaugh said.

He has earned and holds OSHA 30-Hour Certification and construction management training. His biggest challenge was navigating post-pandemic supply chain disruptions through strong supplier relationships and proactive inventory management. “I ensured uninterrupted progress, keeping PNC competitive and trusted in the construction industry,” he said.

He also finds satisfaction in guiding the next generation of tradespeople.

“If I weren’t in construction, I’d likely pursue a role in mentorship or vocational training ― helping younger generations find meaningful careers in the trades,” he said.

Founded 27 years ago, Erstad Architects stands as a testament to the experience and vision of its founding partner, Andy Erstad.

A member of the American Institute of Architects, Erstad has a wealth of experience and vision that he has used to build on with not only clients in Idaho but across the United States and around the world. According to his firm, before founding Erstad Architects, he worked with Albanese/Brooks Associates in Tucson, Arizona, Venturi Scott Brown in Philadelphia, Bull Stockwell and Allen, Reid & Tarics in San Francisco and Hummel Architects in Boise.

Erstad recently took a co-lead role, handing the reins of the firm over to Katrina Kulm, AIA, who is now the managing partner.

“Our firm has always been about more than just great architecture ― it’s about the people we work with and the communities we serve,” Erstad said.

His education includes degrees from The College of Idaho and University of Arizona College of Architecture, and studies abroad in Italy and stateside in San Francisco.

Bob Fleming has spent 28 years in commercial construction, with five years leading business development at Nampa-based RADIX Construction. His most significant recent accomplishment was joining Boise Impact Group’s board of directors, leading the education and mentorship of the Trades Groups. 

“Leading the education and mentorship of the Trades Groups, I guide business owners to address industry-specific challenges, resulting in measurable successes,” Fleming said. “Witnessing their ‘light bulb moments’ as they make pivotal decisions for their businesses brings me immense satisfaction.” 

Having attended University of Utah, with a business and marketing emphasis, Fleming holds multiple certifications including LEED Accredited Professional and various OSHA certificates. His career followed what he calls a “Boot-to-Suit journey,” starting in field trades before advancing through superintendent roles to business development. 

Fleming’s biggest challenge was earning respect in construction’s tough environment. “My dad taught me two very important skills: Don’t ask someone to do something that you won’t do yourself, and real leaders will pull the team, not push them,” he said. 

His goals for Radix over the coming year are focused on strategic growth and community impact within the industry. 

“I aim to expand our client roster by deepening our outreach and delivering exceptional value to attract new partners who share our vision for innovative commercial development, especially in the collaborative pre-construction space,” Fleming said. “RADIX has an incredible pre-construction system that is not like anything else I’ve had visibility to in the industry so it’s my goal to educate as many developers as possible how we add exceptional value to their development efforts early in the process.” 

John Hamilton has spent 24 years in construction, currently serving as regional manager for Deacon Construction’s Boise office expansion after a career journey that began at age 16. His most significant recent accomplishment was leading the business into the Treasure Valley market.

“One of my most significant accomplishments has been leading the business planning and successful execution of Deacon’s Boise office expansion,” Hamilton said. “This milestone involved identifying strategic opportunities in the region, aligning internal resources, and building a strong foundation for long-term growth.”

Hamilton started as a summer laborer with Deacon in 2001, returned as a carpenter in 2003, launched his own general contracting company in 2007, and rejoined Deacon as project manager and estimator in 2016. He holds OSHA 30 and leadership certifications.

His biggest challenge was managing a historic building renovation with constant unforeseen conditions requiring immediate problem-solving.

“Construction is planned for the best-case scenario, but challenges occur in the construction industry,” he said.

His goal in the next year is to bolster the company’s business relationships.