John McCanless Recognized with Schmitty Award

For over 15 years, we’ve recognized outstanding co-workers who best model our firm’s core values with the Schmitty Award. Today, we’re excited to share Senior Project Representative John McCanless, a leader in our Construction Engineering Group, was selected.

To choose a winner, the three previous recipients collaborate to develop a list of nominees. Those names are given to Kristen Leathers-Gratton, who then, gathers input from the other two principal owners, Mike McKenna and Robert Ubben. Together, they review the candidates and make a selection.

With a true passion for construction administration, John leads his team with enthusiasm. He always wants to know more, take on greater responsibilities, and achieve new goals. Recognized for his initiative, he has built a skilled team of construction observers/inspectors and developed long-lasting relationships with our clients.

“When John walks in the door, he has a smile on his face. His positive approach to any task is a great example for all of us,” said Kristen Leathers-Gratton, PE, Assoc. DBIA, President, Affinis. “He is the first to volunteer or help on the task at hand. In all his interactions, he follows our five core values – balance, collaboration, excellence, servant leadership, and trustworthiness. Day in and day out, he works diligently to deliver quality services to our clients and construct reliable infrastructure for our communities.”

When asked how he supports his co-workers, Kristen responded, “John is always looking for an opportunity to make a co-worker’s life easier. Whether he is getting timesheets submitted on-time or working on a weekend so another inspector can attend a family function, he puts others first.”

The Schmitty
This award is named in honor and memory of our co-worker Dale Schmidtberger, who passed away in 2003. You can learn more about The Schmitty and Dale in the “Our Culture” section of our website.