American Society of Concrete Contractors Recognizes Zach VanBemden with National Gaining Strength Award
The American Society of Concrete Contractors (ASCC) selected Kent Companies Project Manager Zach VanBemden as the 2021 recipient of its Gaining Strength Award. The award was presented at the ASCC’S annual convention in St. Louis, Missouri on Sept. 23.
The ASCC’s Gaining Strength Award honors outstanding young professionals who go above and beyond to promote and represent the concrete industry, through their actions and participation in local and national organizations.
With six years under his belt, Zach oversees start-up activities and daily project management to ensure safety, productivity, quality and customer service expectations are met. He manages daily field operations and office teams for Kent Companies’ West Michigan Underlayments operations.
“Zach has made his mark on our team, just as his father and grandfather did before him,” said Kent Companies CEO Jeff VanderLaan. “It’s not often you come across a third-generation company, let alone a third-generation family working within that company. His father, Mike, and his grandfather, Ike, have been with the company for decades – paving the way for leaders like Zach to have the opportunity to stand where he does now.”
Zach’s father Mike was in attendance for the award reception. Mike is a General Superintendent at Kent Companies and has been recognized with accolades, including Craft Professional of the Year by the Associated Builders and Contractors Western Michigan Chapter.
In his position, Zach has worked on key projects including The Rowe Springs at the Reserve and 50 Monroe. He managed the renovation of 50 Monroe – a 19th century downtown building in Grand Rapids, Michigan. This project included more than 150,000 square feet of underlayments, resulting in a new five-story hotel and ground level office, retail and restaurant space.
“It’s humbling to see Zach receive such an honor,” said Kent Companies Executive Vice President Mark Tromp. “I have known the VanBemden family for years and have worked with Zach, his father and grandfather. I have firsthand watched him grow into an exceptional leader over the past six years. His breadth and depth of knowledge, technical understanding and work ethic are unparalleled.”
Zach is an active member of the Associated Builders and Contractors Western Michigan Chapter and American Subcontractors Association of Michigan.
Zach is committed to developing the future of the concrete industry’s workforce. He has volunteered his time to South Christian High School, Innovation Central High School’s Academy of Design & Construction, Kent Intermediate School District, CareerQuest and Dégagé Ministries.
