In this episode of Built In Boots, Mark Payne sits down with Nick Beach, Connor Compton, and Adam Winter to talk about the paths that brought them from Alfred State to the construction industry.

They discuss the value of hands-on education, gaining experience in the field, and the role mentorship plays in building a career. Nick also shares his journey from studying Heavy Equipment Operations to becoming an instructor and staying connected to the industry through his work with DDS.

From operating equipment to exploring leadership and management opportunities, the conversation highlights the many directions a career in construction can take and the experiences that help shape the next generation of the industry.

At The DDS Companies, we don’t just build projects—we build careers. From field workers to office staff, every role contributes to our mission of excellence in the civil construction industry. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take the next step in your journey, DDS offers the opportunities, support, and culture you need to thrive.

Ready to join a team where your skills and dedication are valued? Visit our Careers Page at www.ddscompanies.com/careers to explore current opportunities and take the first step toward building your future with DDS. Your journey starts here!

In this episode of Built In Boots, Mark Payne sits down with Broome-Tioga BOCES heavy equipment students Michael Roma, Jonah Saunders, and Josh Coleman following their first-place finish at the New York State SkillsUSA competition.

The students share how they found their way into the trades, the safety-focused projects that helped take them to the top at SkillsUSA, and what they’ve learned through hands-on education. They also discuss preparing for the national competition, their career goals, and how programs like BOCES are helping prepare the next generation for careers in construction and the skilled trades

At The DDS Companies, we don’t just build projects—we build careers. From field workers to office staff, every role contributes to our mission of excellence in the civil construction industry. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take the next step in your journey, DDS offers the opportunities, support, and culture you need to thrive.

Ready to join a team where your skills and dedication are valued? Visit our Careers Page at www.ddscompanies.com/careers to explore current opportunities and take the first step toward building your future with DDS. Your journey starts here!

Built in Boots is back. Here's where DDS is headed.

After a brief hiatus, the Built in Boots Podcast returns for Season 2 with Mike Fallat, President of DDS, and Mark Payne, Director of Training & Compliance. Together, they reflect on the challenges and accomplishments of 2025, discuss the opportunities shaping 2026, and share how DDS continues to invest in its people, culture, and long-term success.

From staying connected with crews in the field to developing the next generation of talent, this conversation provides an inside look at the company's direction and the mindset driving its continued growth. Midway through the episode, Communications Specialist JuWan Graham joins the discussion to share his perspective as a newer member of the team and what he's learned while experiencing the wide range of work taking place across DDS.

What we cover in this episode:

• Why Built in Boots is back and the impact it has had on employees and new hires
• Lessons, challenges, and accomplishments that shaped 2025
• The opportunities and outlook guiding DDS through 2026
• Why staying connected to crews in the field remains a leadership priority
• How training, safety, and continuous improvement support long-term success
• Developing the next generation through internships and workforce development
• Recruiting, retaining, and growing a strong team
• The value of collaboration across DDS and the broader Artera family
• Why investing in people remains the foundation of the company's future

If you're part of the DDS team, considering a career in the industry, or interested in learning more about the people behind the work, this episode offers an honest conversation about leadership, opportunity, and building what's next together.

At The DDS Companies, we don’t just build projects—we build careers. From field workers to office staff, every role contributes to our mission of excellence in the civil construction industry. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take the next step in your journey, DDS offers the opportunities, support, and culture you need to thrive.

Ready to join a team where your skills and dedication are valued? Visit our Careers Page at www.ddscompanies.com/careers to explore current opportunities and take the first step toward building your future with DDS. Your journey starts here!