Hawkins Construction Creates Inflation Protection Fund for Employees

All Hawkins hourly employees will receive up to two $1,000 payments in addition to regular wages to offset rising household costs

OMAHA, Neb., 2022 – Hawkins Construction Company, a prominent Midwestern general contractor, announced today it is implementing an inflation protection fund for employees that will disburse up to two $1,000 payments during 2022.

“We see rising costs across the supply chain and recognize this volatility is affecting our employees’ bottom lines as well,” said Chris Hawkins, president and CEO of Hawkins Construction. “Through this fund, we aim to cover the unavoidable gaps created by increased prices at the gas pump, grocery store and other bills.”

This calculation was made based on the company’s estimate that the average cost of basic household expenses was increasing by about $2,000 due to year-over-year inflation. This fund is in addition to 2021 performance bonuses of $7.2 million distributed to field employees, support staff and project managers.

“Our goal is to provide a holistic compensation package that is meaningful to our 400-plus employees,” said Tim Mollner, HR coordinator at Hawkins Construction. “We reward merit and provide security to everyone on our team.”

The news comes about two months after Hawkins Construction announced a pilot program that provides employees free English-as-second-language classes and a month after Hawkins issued hourly wage increases ranging from 5% to 12%. Additionally, Hawkins provides 100% paid full-family health insurance with an additional health reimbursement account to reduce out-of-pocket expenses.

“As a family-owned company, when we think about compensation, we are really thinking about quality of life. These programs are all part of our company philosophy to help our employees create not only great careers, but more importantly, great lives,” said Hawkins. “Somebody without a college degree can start today at $22 an hour and could have $1 million or more in their Hawkins fully funded pension plan after 30 years of working at Hawkins Construction. Valuing our employees and their future is who Hawkins is as an employer.”

About Hawkins Construction Company

Hawkins Construction Company is a fourth-generation, family-owned and operated construction contractor that is one of the Midwest’s largest builders of transportation, civil infrastructure, water/wastewater and industrial projects. Its national reputation as an accomplished contractor for completing projects ahead of schedule is rooted in its competitive spirit, comprehensive knowledge, tireless work ethic and precise attention to detail.