Westlake would like to give special recognition to Chris Kaleikilo for recently celebrating 30 years with the firm. Chris first joined the firm in 1992, as an instrument person, and recalls the first few years were physically demanding. “I was out chopping line, making up stakes, carrying equipment, and doing all the hard things, but they were part of the learning process,” says Chris.

Over the years, Chris quickly rose through the ranks and credits one project in particular for having a huge impact on his career. “After a couple of years of land surveying work, Westlake was awarded section 7 of the Trimet Westside light rail line. That’s when my career really took off. I was given the opportunity to become the main party chief by the end of the project,” says Chris. Over the next 15 years Chris continued to work in the Heavy Construction Division.

Around the same time, the Industrial Measurement Division (IMD) was growing. “Leadership asked me to join the IMD department to help support the increasing workload. Over the next 10 years, I was given the opportunity to become an associate, director, and now principal,” says Chris.

Throughout the course of his career, Chris has worked on a number of projects that have had a direct impact in our community. “A few of my favorites are the Sauvie Island Bridge, Hilton PDX, and the MODA Center. The thing I like most about the industry is working as a team with other trades, contractors, and clients to help build the future,” he says.

When asked what he credits his success to – he says sacrifice, dedication, and loyalty to the company and he has some practical advice for those starting out in their careers. “Learn to love the grind. If you can love the days that you have to grind through, it will make the easier days even better. Also, doing the comfortable things makes you average, but doing the uncomfortable things makes you great,” he says.

In 2019, Chris and three other longtime employees (Shad Haney, Mike Hargrave and Ken Sandblast) jointly assumed firm ownership from Westlake’s founding Principals Judi Haney and Len Schelsky.