Podcast Summary: Dirt Talk by BuildWitt Episode: The Veit Contracting Story w/ Kelly and Vaughn Veit – DT 326
Release Date: April 3, 2025
Host: BuildWitt
Guests: Kelly Veit and Grant Veit

Introduction

In episode DT 326 of "Dirt Talk by BuildWitt," host Vaughn Veit sits down with Kelly Veit and Grant Veit to delve into the rich history, operational intricacies, and personal stories of Veit Contracting. The conversation offers listeners an insider's perspective on the company's evolution, challenges, and the enduring family legacy that drives its success.

Company History and Growth

Kelly Veit provides a comprehensive overview of Veit Contracting's origins, tracing the company's roots back to his grandfather's endeavors as a truck farmer in the early 20th century. Transitioning through generations, Kelly recounts how his father expanded the business by acquiring dump trucks during the Depression era, laying the foundation for what would become a multifaceted contracting powerhouse.

• Quote: "We started out as truck farmers, raising vegetables and then pivoted to renting dump trucks to counties during the Great Depression." [03:16]

Kelly took over the company in 1975 at the age of 26, a transition that marked the beginning of significant organic growth. From a modest revenue of $363,000 in 1975, Veit Contracting has burgeoned to approach half a billion dollars in annual volume, now operating in 22 states.

• Quote: "Since taking over in '75, we've grown from 363K to nearly half a billion dollars in volume." [06:03]

Personal Stories and Company Culture

The Veit family emphasizes a strong cultural foundation within the company. Kelly shares anecdotes from his youth, highlighting his early involvement in the business, from shoveling in sewers at 14 to managing scrap iron operations with his uncle.

• Quote: "I was making $100 a week at 14, which made me the richest kid in the neighborhood." [07:18]

The conversation also touches on the company's commitment to maintaining a respectful and inclusive work environment. Kelly recalls his determination to improve office spaces to foster better communication and employee well-being.

• Quote: "I convinced my dad to expand our office space because the original setup was too cramped and ineffective." [12:08]

Technology and Innovation

Veit Contracting prides itself on staying ahead of technological advancements in the construction and demolition industries. Kelly discusses the adoption of robotics, GPS-enabled machinery, and drone technology to enhance efficiency and safety on job sites.

• Quote: "We utilize drones that fly at 380 miles an hour, completing topographical surveys in just eight minutes." [21:09]

The company also explores innovative solutions like plastic backhoe buckets that are designed for easy replacement, minimizing downtime and maintenance costs.

• Quote: "One of the things on the drawing board is a backhoe bucket out of plastic that you can simply replace when it's worn out." [38:17]

Challenges and Lessons Learned

The Veit family candidly discusses significant challenges, including managing a massive landfill operation and addressing the opioid crisis prevalent in the construction industry. Kelly shares his personal battle with alcoholism, emphasizing the importance of mental health support within the company.

• Quote: "I'm alcohol. I've been sober since January, and it's been a crucial part of my journey." [61:08]

Grant Veit highlights the company's strategies for fostering an inclusive environment while maintaining the rugged, authentic culture that defines the construction industry.

• Quote: "We need to respect the pride of the industry while evolving to be more inclusive for everyone." [47:12]

Legacy and Future Plans

Looking ahead, the Veit family outlines their vision for sustaining the company's legacy through the establishment of a foundation. This foundation aims to ensure that Veit Contracting continues to thrive and give back to the community long after the current leadership steps down.

• Quote: "Upon our passing, the enterprise will be owned by a foundation, ensuring its perpetuity and ongoing philanthropic efforts." [58:56]

The discussion also touches on strategic goals, such as achieving a 5% compounded annual growth rate by 2030, and the importance of empowering division leaders to drive their sectors autonomously.

• Quote: "Empowering our division leaders is key to our sustained growth and success." [57:07]

Conclusion

Episode DT 326 offers a deep dive into Veit Contracting's storied past, present innovations, and future aspirations. Kelly and Grant Veit provide inspiring insights into balancing tradition with progress, the significance of family legacy in business, and the unwavering commitment to excellence that defines Veit Contracting. Listeners gain a profound understanding of the values and strategies that have propelled the company to its esteemed position in the Dirt World.

Notable Quotes:

• "We do backhoes, everything. 100%." — Kelly Veit [04:06]
• "Every piece of paper goes to the office of Germany, hashtag four eyes on it." — Kelly Veit [54:48]
• "Never settle, dig deeper for excellence." — Grant Veit [46:34]
• "If you're 100 grand and we can get three times the mileage out... you ain't going to find out unless you try it." — Kelly Veit [15:10]

This episode serves as both a testament to Veit Contracting's enduring legacy and a blueprint for future growth, embodying the principles of resilience, innovation, and family-driven success.