07/29/2026
More than a new type of underground storm detention system…team growth on every level.
The Bachtel Excavating team of Dominic, Tom, Paul, Evan, and Joe recently installed a StormTrap underground detention system. This was the first time we had installed this precast concrete system.
One of the biggest advantages of this system is that it requires very little cover. We only have 9 inches of aggregate and 6 inches of concrete over the chambers, yet it is designed to handle the fuel tankers that will be delivering gas to the new station.
As exciting as it is to install a new product, it’s even more exciting to see the growth of our team.
From the office to the field, everyone took it upon themselves to learn the installation process. They put together a plan that allowed us to complete the work safely, efficiently, and with great quality.
Joe, our GPS Manager, did a great job building the model and providing the layout for the concrete crew.
Chad, our Preconstruction Manager, coordinated the 10 tractor-trailer deliveries, handled the traffic control, and made sure everyone had the information they needed to install the system.
One example of our team’s growth happened when Dominic, the foreman, was on vacation the day the chambers were installed and backfilled. We put Paul, one of our up-and-coming leaders, in charge for a couple of days. He stepped up and did a great job executing the plan.
It also doesn’t hurt to have Tom, our most veteran operator, there to mentor the younger guys while Dominic was away.
Every project is an opportunity to learn something new. Sometimes that’s a new product. Sometimes it’s giving people the opportunity to step into a bigger role. This project gave us both.
