DEW Construction Corp.
Williston, VT 05495
Locations
Key Contacts
Owners, Principals & Senior Executives
Don Wells's Bio
About
As Founder and President of DEW Construction, Don is intimately involved with every aspect of the business. His primary focus is to provide the vision and guidance required for every employee to understand the goals and objectives set forth for the organization.
Experience
Don leads through empowering people to be self-starters — resulting in their individual ownership and accountability. Providing the framework for Don to be a mentor for every aspect of the business process, from business development to estimating, marketing, safety and production. Don takes great pride making sure that every employee at DEW understands how important their role is to the success of every project.
Throughout his 45 plus years’ in the construction industry, Don has been involved with a diverse portfolio of successfully completed projects, totaling over $2 billion. Don’s unique understanding of the entire construction delivery process is an asset that continues to greatly benefit DEW. He is particularly adept at finding creative solutions to the individual challenges of any given project.
Don’s first exposure to the construction industry was working at a lumber yard during his high school years. Since that time, he has performed every position in the construction industry, including laborer, carpenter, supervisor, estimator, project manager, Vice President of Business Development, and currently President and CEO.
Life Outside DEW
Don enjoys hunting, fishing, golfing and playing cards. He loves traveling and building projects around the home!
Michael Francis's Bio
Mike came aboard in 1999 and is now a co-owner of DEW, leading the finance, accounting, and human resources teams. With over 30 years of accounting and finance experience, including over 25 years of experience in the construction industry, Mike provides efficient financial leadership responsibilities essential for a healthy and growing construction company. His tax expertise allows for a full range of planning for the business and its shareholders.
Mike is an expert in construction and real estate accounting, taxation, and financing and is involved with all facets of construction finance for DEW construction. He works with customers to assist with their needs in arranging financing for projects. This can involve verifying adequate funds are in place to ensure a successful project completion, working with and introducing banks to provide financing, and working with owners to assist and ensure they meet financing criteria. His tax background also allows him to provide owners with the details and documentation to allow for maximizing of depreciation deductions for tax purposes.
Experience
Mike served as the Tax Manager for Grippin, Donlan & Roche, PLC, balancing the responsibilities of the entire firm with the billing and collections for his own client base. He planned, supervised, and completed engagements of all sizes; performed research and review of complex tax returns, and prepared numerous business valuations. Mike also represented clients before the Internal Revenue Service, and was responsible for directing and instructing staff accountants. Prior to working for Grippin, Donlan and Roche, he worked in the audit and tax departments for Berry, Dunn, McNeil and Parker in Portland, Maine and in the accounting department for Green Mountain Power in South Burlington, Vermont.
Mike regularly attends industry group meetings and has hosted speaking engagements on topics such as tax issues and business valuations. He was also an expert speaker for Merrill Lynch in Burlington, Vermont.
Life Outside DEW
Father of three sons, Mike was a youth football and hockey coach for more than ten years. Mike and his wife Andrea enjoy yoga, golf and checking travel destinations off their bucket list.
EDUCATION & TRAINING
St. Michael’s College, B.A. Accounting, Summa Cum Laude
Champlain College, A.S. Business Management, Summa Cum Laude
Certified Public Accountant
AFFILIATIONS
American Institute of CPAs (AICPA),
Vermont Society of CPAs
Maine Society of CPAs
Chittenden South Football, Assistant Football Coach
Chittenden South Hockey, Assistant Hockey Coach
Special Olympics, Former Board Member
Mike Smith's Bio
About
Mike is a senior management team member at DEW Construction. He is directly responsible for leading our project management teams, as well as providing “best in class” services to our customers throughout the construction process. With over 40 years’ industry experience, Mike ensures that all aspects of every project are delivered to specifications. He primarily oversees the integration of preconstruction and construction services, making sure all projects are completed on-time, on-budget and of the highest quality.
Experience
After graduating in 1978 from the University of Vermont with a degree in Civil Engineering, Mike began his construction career as a field engineer and quickly moved on to project management with Pizzagalli Construction in South Burlington, VT. In 1999, Mike joined DEW and was voted Project Manager of the Year in 2001 by the Vermont Subcontractor’s Association.
Life Outside DEW
An avid skier and outdoor enthusiast, Mike, his wife and three children spend winters on the slopes. His children, now grown, live in Montana and he and his wife enjoy visits out west where they ski Big Sky, Montana. When feeling creative, Mike enjoys woodworking.
EDUCATION & TRAINING
B.S. Civil Engineering, University of Vermont
A.S. Surveying, Vermont Technical College
ASHE Healthcare Construction Certificate
AFFILIATIONS
Vermont Subcontractors Association: Awarded Project Manager of the Year
Pamela Moreau's Bio
EDUCATION & TRAINING
About
As General Counsel at DEW Construction, Pam brings over 25 years’ experience handling commercial contracts, real estate transactions, development, financing, dispute resolution, and employment matters. She provides our senior management team with legal advice on a variety of corporate goals and strategies, as well as oversees complex transactions and contracts.
Experience
Pam’s distinguished law career started as a trial attorney for the United States Department of Justice in both the Civil and Environment Divisions defending administration policy and bringing enforcement actions. After moving to Vermont, she entered into private practice and focused on commercial and real estate law. Pam has served as President of the Board of the Chittenden County Bar Association.
Cornell Law School, J.D. cum laude
University of Virginia, B.A. with distinction, Government
AFFILIATIONS
Chittenden County Bar Association, Past President of the Board
Climbing Resource Access Group of Vermont, Inc., Past Board Member, Former Legal Counsel
Burlington Children’s Space, Former Board of Directors Co-Chair
Taylor R. Woodward's Bio
About
As Executive Vice President, Taylor has a broad array of responsibilities across all departments within the organization. Key responsibilities include establishing and managing DEW’s long-term goals, developing and enhancing policies and procedures to maximize efficiency, and the financial management for all of DEW’s projects.
Taylor provides leadership over the implementation of the company’s mission and ensures that our core values remain ingrained in our culture and processes.
Experience
Taylor started his career at DEW as a laborer, and has since performed the roles of carpenter, field engineer, project engineer, estimator, business development manager, project manager, and currently executive vice president. Taylor graduated from Vermont Technical College with a B.S. in Construction Management.
With over 14 years in construction management, his direct project experience spans across many industries including healthcare, K-12 and higher education, retail, housing, hospitality, industrial, manufacturing, recreation, and performing arts. Taylor’s knowledge of the overall construction process accompanied by his organizational and leadership skills bring a positive impact to DEW’s competitiveness and presence in the marketplace.
Life Outside DEW
Taylor lives in southern New Hampshire with his wife (Amanda), son (Ethan), and dog (Kody). He enjoys spending time with family, outdoor activities, playing hockey, and traveling.
EDUCATION & TRAINING
B.S. Construction Management, Vermont Technical College
OSHA 10-Hour
OSHA 30-Hour
ACI Grade 1 Field Testing Technician
Radiation Safety Officer & Operator
Estimating, Purchasing & Preconstruction
Matthew Wheaton's Bio
About
As Vice President of Preconstruction, Matt is responsible for the successful delivery of preconstruction services to our clients – from marketing and negotiating of the preconstruction agreement thru successful GMP and project turn over to the construction team. He works with the estimators, project managers and superintendents to develop accurate information and identify potential risks upfront, which allows owners to make informed decisions early on.
With vast industry experience, Matt has extensive expertise in manufacturing, healthcare, and education. His background in design, budgeting, and project management make him a valuable resource for our clients as well as our staff at DEW. Matt excels in maintaining positive client relationships and presenting owners with innovative solutions for their construction needs.
Experience
Matt’s successful career in the construction industry began even before college — as a carpenter’s apprentice, where he was first exposed to all facets of residential construction. He went on to pursue the field of architecture, graduating with honors and receiving his Master of Architecture from Norwich University. In 2000, he joined TruexCullins, an architecture and interior design firm in Burlington, VT, where he served as a Project Manager. In his role at Truex Cullins, Matt oversaw a variety of projects with construction values from $150,000 to $45 million. He managed the day-to-day operations of multiple concurrent projects, developed and managed budgets, and gained experience in various markets, including higher education, resorts, residential, and commercial offices.
Life Outside DEW
Matt admires the built environment, enjoys travel and exploration, food and wine. He spends a lot of time away from home, so when he is home, he spends time with his beautiful wife and two kids. Where they are happy, he is happy.
EDUCATION & TRAINING
Master of Architecture, Norwich University
B.S. Architectural Studies, Minor – Business Administration, Norwich University. Graduated Cum Laude
ASHE Healthcare Construction Certificate
Revit, AutoCAD
AFFILIATIONS
Board Member, Associated Builders & Contractors of NH/VT
AIA Associate Member
Gray Building Coalition Board Member, Northfield, VT
Former Adjunct Professor in Preconstruction & Planning, Norwich University
Scott Carter's Bio
About
Almost 40 years’ of industry experience renders Scott Carter an extremely capable chief estimator at DEW Construction, with deep expertise in project management, cost estimating, cost control, project scheduling and quality control. Scott has estimated over a 1.6 billion dollars’ worth of projects over his career in a range of different sectors. Scott is both well-liked and highly respected in the industry, and his commitment, professionalism, amiable manner and communication skills are an asset to both the projects on which he works and the team with whom he works.
Experience
Upon graduation from Vermont Technical College in 1983, Scott began his career in estimating with HCI Craftsmen in Winooski, VT and then with Simpson Construction Co. out of Rochester, VT. Quick to advance his skills, In 1989 he was hired by Bread Loaf Construction in Middlebury, VT as a Lead Estimator. Before joining DEW in 1999, he was a Senior Estimator with Barr & Barr, Inc., Boston, MA and Middlebury & Shelburne, VT.
Life Outside DEW
Scott enjoys spending time with his wife and two daughters, fishing as time permits, spending quality time under engine driven vehicles, repairing everything else that is almost broken and working on the house they built in 1993. If he could do it all over, he would build the entire home with concrete, steel, fiberglass and plastic. When Scott is not estimating for work, he spends quite a bit of time estimating for architectural design and previous owner friends that call their trusted friend for help.
EDUCATION & TRAINING
A.S., Civil Engineering Technology, Vermont Technical College
Pre-Tech Program, Vermont Technical College
ASHE Healthcare Construction Certificate
Timberline advanced estimating
AFFILIATIONS
Past member of the American Society of Professional Estimators
Taught blue print reading classes at the Hannaford Career Center, Middlebury, Vermont
Regular Red Cross blood donor
Business Development, Marketing & Sales
Brian Gallagher's Bio
About
As Director of Business Development, Brian is responsible for building and maintaining strategic partnerships throughout southeastern, New Hampshire, northern Massachusetts and southern Maine. Active in the construction management and real estate industry for over 25 years, along with much enthusiasm, Brian brings invaluable experience to DEW’s Business Development team. He maintains a large network of consultants, brokers, engineers, designers and financial professionals in the New Hampshire construction market.
Experience
Before he joined DEW Construction, Brian managed and directed all sales and marketing activities for Sullivan Construction, more than doubling sales for the company to $28M under his leadership. Prior to that, he served as Business Development Manager for Dacon Corporation, at which he established and grew the company’s market share across multiple states, with a focus on increasing volume in the areas of biotechnology, laboratory, medical, and commercial real estate. Brian has deep experience in commercial real estate, having served as a Partner at Coldstream Real Estate Advisors in New Hampshire, and as a Vice President of Brokerage Services at CB Richard Ellis/Whittier Partners in Boston.
Life Outside DEW
Brian has lived in Stratham, NH for over 15 years with his wife and two daughters. He’s a tennis fanatic and plays several times a week. He also loves to hike with his family whenever possible and enjoys sailing, the beach, traveling, and (don’t laugh) playing the banjo (bluegrass) and listening to all types of music.
EDUCATION & TRAINING
Master of Science in Finance, Babson Graduate School of Management
Bachelor of Science, Business Administration (Marketing), University of Massachusetts at Lowell
AFFILIATIONS
New Hampshire Commercial Investment Board of Realtors
New Hampshire High Technology Council
New Hampshire Business & Industry Association
New Hampshire Healthcare Association
New England Chapter – ERAPPA (School & College Facilities Directors)
Maine Economic & Real Estate Development Association
Building Owners and Managers Association
Merrimack Valley Economic Development Commission
Rotary Club of Portsmouth NH
Pete Kelley's Bio
About
Pete brings deep expertise in managing technically complex projects to DEW. A natural relationship builder, he is a confident communicator with strong interpersonal and analytical skills who thrives on customer satisfaction. Since joining DEW in 2014, Pete reports directly to Don Wells and responsible for the overall management of the business development organization. Pete serves as a key member of the senior team that sets the company’s strategic direction while responsible for developing new business opportunities and managing relationships with clients, project managers, designers, brokers and institutions.
Experience
Pete’s wide-ranging experience goes back almost 40 years, spanning the construction, technical, and telecommunications industries in Vermont. A civil engineer by training, he served in many managerial roles throughout his career, from project management to estimating to business development, earning himself a deep understanding of project analysis and planning. In 1998, he joined K&S Communications in Champlain, New York, where he became a founding member of a senior leadership team that created PrimeLink, a non-regulated CLEC (competitive local exchange carrier), and managed wholesale channel development and sales strategy. Most recently, he was with General Dynamics Armament and Technical Products in Williston, VT, where he served as Program Manager. There he was responsible for the execution of major defense programs and projects ranging in value between $1 million and $1 billion — overseeing budgets, scheduling and technical performance, and directing all phases of work from inception through completion.
Life Outside DEW
He enjoys spending time with family, exploring Vermont, watching UVM hoops, and playing golf (member and immediate past president at Burlington Country Club).
EDUCATION & TRAINING
B.S. Civil Engineering, University of Vermont
AFFILIATIONS
Vice Chair, Town of Williston Development Review Board
Senior Vice President, Associated General Contractors of Vermont (AGC) Board of Directors
Board Member, American Institute of Architects Vermont Chapter (AIAVT) Board of Directors
Board Member and immediate past President, Burlington Country Club Board of Directors
Stacey Bevins's Bio
About
As Director of Marketing, Stacey manages the development and implementation of an integrated marketing and communications strategy for DEW. Upon joining DEW in March of 2018, Stacey jumped in to lead and oversee DEW’s rebranding efforts, including the company’s internal and external messaging strategy, logo update, website overhaul and revamp of all marketing collateral.
From brand management to the art of storytelling and the creation of engaging social content, monthly newsletters and advertising, Stacey ensures that DEW is positioned as a leader in the marketplace across all channels.
Colleagues describe Stacey as a passionate people person who encourages collaboration and team building, as well as an innate communicator, strategist and creative thinker.
Experience
Prior to joining DEW, Stacey was the Director of Marketing and Business Development for an affiliate office of National Life – where she oversaw the development of the annual marketing strategy for the company, as well as for external programs and services.
Formerly, as Director of Sales and Professional Services for a K-12 publisher, her background and leadership roles in both marketing and sales have provided her with the opportunity to develop a comprehensive skill-set and honed customer-focused perspective.
Life Outside DEW
Stacey enjoys surrounding herself with family & friends and will use any occasion for reason to host a celebration. With a love for the beach, water and sunshine, her favorite season is summer. She enjoys outdoor activities, including hiking, biking and a casual game of soccer. Passionate about travel and adventure – if time and resources were endless, she’d spend her days exploring new terrain with her family.
Other
Ann Kirzl's Bio
About
Ann joined the DEW Construction team in 2017. As Director of Human Resources, she manages all aspects of HR, including benefits administration, employment-related issues, recruiting and compliance. She is responsible for ensuring that every employee at DEW is treated to a fair, positive, and compliant work environment.
Experience
Ann brings a wealth of experience to her Human Resources role at DEW Construction. Prior to joining DEW, she created the HR department at Champlain Valley Dispensary, developing protocols and bringing benefits, education and a robust recruitment program to the 50+ employee company. Prior to that, Ann spent 15 years at Vermont Student Assistance Corporation (VSAC) where she served in many capacities — most recently as Senior HR Manager, in which she managed all high-level HR operations for the 250-employee organization. Earlier in her career, she focused on financial management and fundraising in higher education institutions, serving at Saint Michael’s College, The University of Vermont and Wesleyan University.
Life Outside DEW
Ann enjoys an active life outside of work, and is passionate about anything dog related. She also performs voiceover work for radio and television.
EDUCATION & TRAINING
The University of Vermont, M.S. Counseling
Randolph-Macon Woman’s College, B.A., Phi Beta Kappa, Distinguished Scholar
AFFILIATIONS
SHRM – Society for Human Resource Management
VT Human Resources Association (VHRA)
Ben Spaulding's Bio
About
As a highly-trained safety specialist, Ben is responsible for our overall company safety program at DEW. He works closely with project teams to develop a specific safety plan for every new project, and he routinely inspects all ongoing projects for compliance in protocols and equipment. Ben maintains relationships with state and local officials to ensure he stays current with regulations and best practices involving construction safety in Vermont.
Experience
Ben started with DEW in 2000 as a laborer for a summer job while back from college. Early on, he recognized that there was a lot of room to grow within the company and worked his way up through the ranks being promoted to Safety Director in 2014. Ben is also heavily involved with the field staff — with knowledge of their individual skills and abilities, he is responsible for manpower placement on our projects.
Life Outside DEW
Ben has three children, so along with his wife Sarah, most of their time is devoted to extra-curricular activities. When he has free time, Ben enjoys long hiking trips, hockey, skiing, fly fishing and shooting fireworks professionally for Northstar Fireworks.
EDUCATION & TRAINING
Certified Safety & Health Official in Construction (CSHO), OSHA Training Institute Education Center, Keene State College
Certified Region 1 Safety & Health Specialist in Construction, OSHA Training Institute Education Center, Keene State College
OSHA 500: Construction. Authorized OSHA 10 & 30-hour Outreach Trainer
OSHA 40-hour HAZWOPER
OSHA 7405: Fall Hazard Awareness
OSHA 510: Occupational Safety and Health Standards for Construction
OSHA 511: Occupational Safety and Health Standards for General Industry
OSHA 7500: Safety and Health Management
OSHA 2225: Respiratory Protection
OSHA 521: Guide to Industrial Hygiene
OSHA 7505: Introduction to Accident Investigation
OSHA 3010: Excavation, Trenching, and Soil Mechanics
OSHA 7205: Health Hazard Awareness
OSHA 3095: Electrical Standards
OSHA 7120: Introduction to Combustible Dust Hazards
OSHA 2055: Cranes in Construction
OSHA 2255: Principles of Ergonomics
OSHA 7845: Recordkeeping Rule
