Two major contractors in the Northwest's heavy construction industry are coming together to offer a full range of highway and bridge construction services. Wildish, a Eugene-based heavy highway contractor and sand and gravel company, announced its acquisition of the Vancouver, Wash.-based bridge builder F.E. Ward.
When combined, employees of both companies will total 450, which increases Wildish's size by 25 to 30% at the peak of the construction season. Both companies operate principally in Oregon and Washington and hold contractor's licenses in several other western states.
"Strategically, we've been interested in expanding our bridge building capabilities for several years because we see a growing need in this area over the coming decade," said Jim Wildish, president of Wildish. "We feel fortunate to have the opportunity to combine the expertise of two of the Northwest's premier family-owned and operated heavy construction companies."
"We're excited because the future of our company and our employees is ensured," said Ted Aadland, president and a founder of F.E. Ward. "Wildish is a strong company with good management. It has a long term plan that will carry us into the future and will serve our clients and our people very well."
