When Barton Malow broke ground on Hudson’s Detroit, it wasn’t just the start of a project. It was the latest chapter in a 100-year story of innovation, partnership, and community impact. For nearly a century, Barton Malow has been a leader in construction, and much of that success has been powered by close relationships like the one it forged with Operating Engineers 324. Together, they’ve built everything from sports arenas to green energy solutions, elevating not just structures but lives.
From revitalizing Detroit’s skyline with Hudson’s Detroit to constructing the innovative Coldwater Solar Farm, Barton Malow and Operating Engineers 324 have collaborated to bring vision and excellence to life. It is a collaboration highlighting not only the impressive projects but also the people—like Scott Fulco, Harlie Crist, Russ Macdonald—who operate the machinery and embody the spirit of union community.
A Century of Integrity and Innovation
Founded in 1924, Barton Malow started as a small contractor with a big vision. Over the years, it grew into one of the nation’s leading construction firms, tackling projects that shape communities and enhance lives. From hospitals to entertainment venues, Barton Malow’s portfolio reflects its dedication to both innovation and people.
Chief Operating Officer Chuck Binkowski credits the company’s enduring success to its core values of integrity, partnership, and empowerment. “We’ve always strived to build more than just transformational projects,” he says. “We aim to develop our people and have a positive impact on our communities.”
The Backbone of Success: Partnerships
Barton Malow’s success would not be possible without the skilled men and women of the trades, and its relationship with Operating Engineers 324 is a cornerstone of that foundation.
Kyle Kremer, Barton Malow’s General Civil Superintendent, highlights the trust and respect between the organizations. “Our partnership started when we became a signatory contractor with Operating Engineers 324,” he explains. “It’s built on countless interactions, mutual respect, and a shared vision of safety and excellence.”
The partnership is about more than getting the job done; it’s about empowering workers with opportunities, training, and career growth. Todd Doenitz, Director of Labor Management at Barton Malow, underscores this point. “We wouldn’t be one of the premier construction companies in the industry without the hard work of OE324 membership,” he says. “They leave their homes and families to ‘get the job done,’ and we strive to support them every step of the way.”
Member Stories: The Heartbeat of Construction
The projects Barton Malow and Operating Engineers 324 tackle are monumental, but it’s the individual stories of the tradespeople that bring them to life.
The Hudson Site Redevelopment: A New Skyline for Detroit
Situated on the site of the iconic J.L. Hudson’s flagship store in downtown Detroit, Barton Malow is constructing a transformational mixed-use development comprising more than 1.5 million gross square feet of office, retail, food and beverage, hotel, residential, event, and parking space. The Hudson’s Detroit development includes a 12-story, 650,000-square-foot block with shopping and dining options, an event hall, and office space. Upon its completion in 2025, General Motors will serve as the anchor tenant in the block building, relocating its global headquarters from its long-time location along the Detroit Riverfront.
An adjacent 685-foot tower—the first skyscraper development in downtown Detroit in decades—will feature luxury residential living space and the city’s first five-star hotel. To make way for the block and tower, Barton Malow began the project by demolishing an existing parking deck. Following demolition, 161 caissons were installed, and building columns, block and tower cores, and concrete decks were constructed as the team worked to build back up to street level. To date, more than 3,500 skilled trades professionals have contributed to the project, logging a combined 2.7 million work hours since breaking ground. After the installation of 10,500 pieces of structural steel, the site officially topped out in spring 2024.
Hudson’s Detroit will help redefine downtown Detroit—not just its skyline but its connectivity. The project will link Detroit’s Library Square arts and culture district with other retail opportunities in and around Woodward Avenue.
Michael Wathen, a 16-year member of Operating Engineers 324, has dedicated his career to building Michigan’s infrastructure. As a third-generation Operating Engineer, the trade runs deep in his family—his father retired seven years ago after a long career in the field. Though he initially considered other paths, the need to support his growing family with solid pay, health care, and a secure pension kept him firmly rooted in OE324. His current assignment, working on the Hudson’s Detroit in downtown Detroit, has marked a significant chapter in his career, allowing him to contribute to one of the city’s most ambitious projects.
For the past three and a half years, Wathen has operated a Broderson crane and fork truck at the site, occasionally using a skid steer to move materials around. This project, his first with Barton Malow, has been a departure from his earlier work in steel mills and auto plants. He recalls joining the project when it was still “a hole in the ground on one side” and takes pride in helping transform the site into a prominent downtown development. “I missed out on Little Caesars Arena and the bridge,” he reflects, “so this was a nice prize to do something in the city and make good money for a long period. To stay in one place for three and a half years is a privilege.”
Beyond the work itself, Wathen appreciates the supportive environment cultivated by Barton Malow’s management team, who he says have handled challenges like the pandemic and supply chain disruptions with care and professionalism. He credits Operating Engineers 324 with enabling him to “get a piece of the dream” as a veteran without a college degree, highlighting the Union’s ability to provide members with good pay, benefits, and a solid foundation for their families. “Being able to provide for my family with good benefits and pay,” Wathen says, “makes it all worthwhile.”
Harlie Crist, a five-year member of Operating Engineers 324, has built an impressive career through dedication and a passion for her craft. After operating equipment non-union for transfer stations and the Detroit DPW yard, she sought greater opportunities and applied to OE324’s apprenticeship program. Interviewed by Rob Ackley, who encouraged her to pursue cranes, Crist found her calling. During her apprenticeship, she gained diverse experience working with companies like Kiewit and G/K and honed her skills in plant work. Since joining Barton Malow, she has spent three and a half years on Hudson’s Detroit, taking on a range of responsibilities and advancing her career in crane operation.
At the site, Crist started as an oiler and forklift operator, contributing to “anything and everything that needed to be done.” Her ambition to specialize in tower cranes led to opportunities to gain experience on the towers, initially one day a week. As her skills grew, she became a key operator, covering for vacations, weekends, and eventually taking on full responsibilities after a journeyman crane operator transitioned to another job. Reflecting on her journey, Crist says, “My whole career – I swear I blinked and it has gone by. Seems like just yesterday I got the call.” She credits the apprenticeship program for shaping her into the professional she is today: “They taught me everything – made me who I am. I wouldn’t have a career without them.”
Working for Barton Malow and being a part of Operating Engineers 324 has been transformative for Crist. She values the respect and equal treatment she’s received, noting, “I don’t have to worry about being a ‘girl’ in the construction industry – they never treated me any differently.” Attending the Tradeswomen Build Nations Conference for the past two years further underscores her commitment to advancing women in the trades. For Crist, being part of the Hudson’s Detroit holds a special significance: “I’m part of changing the Detroit skyline for life. I’m going to be pointing this out for years, and it’s been an incredible experience.” Whether operating a forklift, elevator, or tower crane, she embraces every role with enthusiasm, saying, “I enjoy it all.”
Where the Tigers Roar: Comerica Park Redevelopment
Beyond the skyscrapers, Barton Malow’s impact is felt at Comerica Park, home of the Detroit Tigers. The company is enhancing the iconic stadium with new premium seating, climate-controlled spaces, and modernized amenities. For Operating Engineers like Russ Macdonald, who’s spent 35 years in the trade, working on Comerica Park has been a dream come true.
“I’m working in the dugout with my excavator—it’s surreal,” Russ shares. Having previously won Tigers tickets from Operating Engineers 324, Russ finds it ironic and rewarding to now be part of the park’s transformation. He credits Barton Malow for fostering open communication and a collaborative environment. “They’re not just about the project; they care about the people.”
Apprentices like Cole Conklin and Mark Burke Jr. are also making their mark at Comerica Park. Conklin, in his third year, grew up playing baseball and dreamed of being on the field—just not in a skid steer. “It’s just as cool,” he laughs, adding that Barton Malow’s emphasis on safety and training has made him confident in his skills.
Burke, who recently graduated from Operating Engineers 324’s apprenticeship program, sees every project as a stepping stone. “Barton Malow offers so many opportunities to try new things,” he says. “The brotherhood here and within OE324 is amazing—everyone’s looking out for you.”
Coldwater Solar Farm: Building a Greener Future
Barton Malow’s commitment to renewable energy is evident in projects like the Coldwater Solar Farm, a 150 MW solar project in Michigan. Set on 1,100 acres, the farm will provide clean energy to tens of thousands of homes.
Jacob Williams, a first-year apprentice and Army veteran, is part of the team. “This is my first time on a solar farm,” he says. “The best part is seeing the outcome of what you’re building.”
Jacob entered the trade through Helmets to Hardhats this year after his service ended in January and believes veterans excel as Operating Engineers because of their adaptability and discipline. “Rain, snow, sunshine—we’re always working,” he says. “We’re teachable and on time.”
For Operating Engineer Scott Fulco, working on green energy projects is an investment in the future of Michigan.
“For a long time, our number one export in Michigan was our children because there weren’t a lot of jobs. But green energy and the new aspects of energy, where our power plants are outdated, is a great opportunity. Not only does it put us to work building them, but they create jobs to maintain them.”
Fulco started his green energy work with Barton Malow on a wind farm over a decade ago.
“I worked with the ironworkers and the crane operators. I would go and clean the mess in front of us, fall back and work with the crane walking it site to site, then go back and clean up behind us.”
It’s an essential part of Barton Malow’s work and mission.
“We are committed to investing in the expansion of the renewable energy market and constructing innovative and impactful projects that will contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable future,” says Matt Lentini, Barton Malow Senior Vice President, Energy + Industrial. “This commitment is reflected in our ongoing work on a wide range of renewable projects, such as wind, solar, Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), and more.”
“Barton Malow Company became one of the first Michigan construction companies to join the “One Gigawatt Club” in December 2021, which signified proven capacity to produce one gigawatt of renewable wind energy through wind turbine installations.”
Training: The Foundation of Excellence
OE324’s state-of-the-art training center plays a pivotal role in preparing members for success. From basic certifications to advanced technologies like GPS systems, the center equips operators with the skills they need to thrive.
Fulco, a 35-year veteran, is a passionate advocate for ongoing education. “There’s always a lot to learn, and our (OE324) training facility is so awesome with that. There is so much more advancement and classes that will help you in the field. Like our rigging and signaling, the crane basics classes, even the fork truck certifications. They make you more desirable to hire the more knowledge you have. I try to relay that to apprentices all the time.”
Burke echoes this sentiment. “The training center and instructors made things fun and welcoming,” he says. “The time I spent learning there gave me confidence to take on real-world challenges.”
A Culture of Safety and Support
At Barton Malow, safety isn’t just a policy—it’s a culture. Operators consistently praise the company’s commitment to protecting its workforce.
Todd Morris, a 30-year veteran, appreciates the emphasis on safety. “Safety first, really employee-oriented,” he says.
For Matthew Palmer, who has been with Barton Malow for eight years, the company’s values resonate deeply. “I have a family, so safety is very important to me,” he says. “It’s the people that make the job. Barton Malow has good people, and that makes all the difference.”
Looking Ahead
As Barton Malow celebrates its 100th anniversary, the future looks bright. From electric vehicle infrastructure to solar farms, the company is poised to lead in emerging markets.
“The rise of AI and advanced technologies will revolutionize this industry,” says Kyle Kremer. “Our partnership with 324 will be crucial in navigating these changes.”
A Legacy of Partnership and Innovation
Since becoming a signatory contractor with Operating Engineers 324, Barton Malow has recognized the value of skilled tradespeople in achieving its mission. The company’s commitment to fostering relationships is evident in its approach to projects and people.
“Our partnership with Operating Engineers 324 is built on trust and respect,” says Kremer. “Their hunger to grow and learn aligns perfectly with our vision for the future.”
Innovation is another cornerstone of Barton Malow’s success. From the proprietary LIFTbuild method—revolutionizing tall building construction—to integrating artificial intelligence, the company embraces cutting-edge solutions. According to COO Chuck Binkowski, staying ahead in a fast-evolving industry requires flexibility and proactive communication.
“We’ve always been forward-thinking,” Binkowski explains. “Whether it’s EV infrastructure, mission-critical markets, or renewable energy, we’re focused on building transformational projects that benefit communities.”
Transforming Lives and Landscapes
Barton Malow’s impact goes beyond the structures it builds. Through initiatives like Community Week, the Detroit Heart Walk, and partnerships with local unions, the company invests in the communities it serves. After the 2020 Midland County floods, Barton Malow teams helped support team members and partners in the area and assist with restoring the area, representing just one example demonstrating its commitment to giving back.
“We have always been proud of the projects we’ve built that help to benefit our local communities – the hospitals where people seek care, schools and universities where students go to learn, and sports and entertainment venues where people attend to cheer and have fun,” explains Binkowski.
For OE324 members, this partnership means more than just jobs—it’s about belonging. Palmer, a 27-year operator, sums it up: “Barton Malow is more than a company. They’re about safety, family, and opportunity. Who wouldn’t want to do this job?”
As Barton Malow celebrates its centennial, its relationship with OE 324 stands as a testament to what can be achieved through collaboration. Together, they’re not just building projects—they’re shaping careers, communities, and a brighter future.
And as they look to the next 100 years, one thing is certain: the partnership between Barton Malow and Operating Engineers 324 will continue to raise the bar, one project at a time.