Success is often built on humble beginnings and open curiosity. Within the trades, that is no different. When we take a step back to appreciate the foundation and leaders who have built our enterprise, it’s natural to wonder what compelled them to stay and become legends. After all, what makes a company successful is the company it brings along.
Operating in a mission-critical atmosphere, we have experienced an array of economic trends, technological advancements, and significant company growth. What has remained consistent is how our culture has provided a supportive community to those willing to show up, take a seat at our table, and ultimately become Nox Group legends.
Darin Johnson, VP of Field Operations with Corbins
Darin has had his name set at the table for 30 years, starting with us as a Foreman. Growing up, he wasn’t afraid of the grunt work his parents instilled in him while working on their farm. He found pride in seeing a finished product built by his own hands.
“The good people stay for our culture, and it makes me feel good that they want to work here…There’s all these great people that I care about here that I know will have a great future even when I leave.”- Darin
When Darin joined Corbins, he found the stability that is often difficult to find within craft work. He remained a ‘yes’ man to any job in order to pay the bills, but wanted a place where he could work and hang his hat. He began to befriend other like-minded people throughout the years and was encouraged to take on a leadership opportunity. From there, Darin became both a respected mentor and peer, known for sharing insight and a laugh. He is not alone in his beliefs about building strong relationships either.
Dewayne Nabity, Craft Trainer with Nox Group
Dewayne has been with the company for 37 years, making him the longest-tenured employee within our enterprise. A great majority of those years in the field with Corbins. He can recall his first job interview with William (Bill) Corbin and would describe him as “the nicest man you’d ever come across.” Dewayne came from a big family, and he was drawn to Bill’s values of connection, loyalty, and showing up for one another within the workplace. Dewayne continues to carry out these values in his personal life as he builds his own family legacy.
“Relationships in life are everything, if you don’t have relationships you don’t have anything.”- Dewayne
Within his early career, he thrived as a Journeyman where he could see a project in his own 3D visual. With decades of experience, he now dedicates himself to educating and training others in the field. Dewayne bridges the gap between knowledge and craft.
Tony Anderson, Nox Innovations VC Workforce Development Manager
Tony connected with Bill’s work ethic. He saw companies work in unsafe conditions and wanted a safe, professional environment for his future. When Bill explained their commitment to safety on site, Tony knew he had found the right place. He has been with our enterprise for 29 years, starting with Corbins and when Nox Innovations was developed in 2017, he made the move to help build out the virtual construction branch.
“Always surround yourself with good people and you’ll always do good. Support those who support you.”- Tony
The transition from craft to Superintendent wasn’t without its challenges, but Tony found his footing through servant leadership. He enjoyed meeting ambitious minds willing to learn. By valuing the people’s needs alongside project objectives, Tony was able to foster a more collaborative way of working within VC in order to improve continuity between VC and craft teams.
The sense of community Tony found at Corbins followed him to Nox Innovations. Across the entire Nox Group enterprise, our people feel connected to something bigger than a job site. They feel attached to a supportive team culture built on trust and shared values. It’s no coincidence that, through every wave of growth, familiar faces keep finding their way back.
The grass may look greener on the other side, but it all comes down to how you water it. These three legends stayed to water their grass and educate those around them on why they do it. They understand that craft work is unpredictable, but when you work in an environment that shares your ethics and vision, it is easy to see how our culture draws people together and how they continue to stay connected.
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