For more than two decades, Tommy Young has been a cornerstone of the Dickerson & Bowen team. Since joining the company in February 2003, Tommy has served as both a talented mechanic and, for many years, the shop foreman at the Brookhaven Plant. His leadership, skill, and steady presence have shaped the shop into the strong, family-oriented team it is today.
Michael Smith, who nominated Tommy for this spotlight, shared how impactful Tommy’s leadership has been. “I’ve had the privilege of working alongside him for the last 12 years, and I’ve learned more from him than I can even begin to count. He’s not only a talented mechanic and foreman but also a true leader who brings out the best in the people around him.”
Recently, Tommy and the team were empowered to raise the bar, and they did exactly that. Today, every tool has a place, safety lines are clearly marked, chains define walk paths, PPE is consistently worn, and the shop is clean, orderly, and professional. It’s now a place the team can truly be proud of.
What sets Tommy apart is his ability to lead with both respect and care. “He’s always respectful, fair, and makes everyone feel like family,” Michael said. “He doesn’t just give orders. He works with you, teaches you, and makes sure you understand the ‘why’ behind the work. He looks out for his employees both on the job and in life, and that family-oriented mindset has built a shop culture where people actually want to come to work.”
Tommy’s leadership extends beyond technical expertise. He is known for showing up every day with unwavering dedication and for being the person his team can count on in any situation. “Whether it’s solving a complicated issue on a machine or helping someone through a personal challenge, he’s steady, dependable, and always willing to go the extra mile,” Michael said. “To me, Tommy isn’t just a boss. He’s a mentor, a role model, and someone I deeply respect. I couldn’t ask for a better person to work for, and I’m grateful to be part of his team.”
Ryan Kennedy, Asphalt Plants Superintendent, echoed this praise. “Tommy deeply cares about his employees and has their best interests in mind. He encourages safety by being the first one to activate new safety procedures. He takes safety very serious and practices what he preaches.”
With more than 20 years of service, Tommy Young continues to embody what it means to be a true leader at Dickerson & Bowen. His mechanical skill, respect for others, and commitment to safety and teamwork make him not only a trusted foreman but also a role model for the entire organization.
Dickerson & Bowen is a wholly owned subsidiary of Granite Construction. Learn more at https://www.graniteconstruction.com/company/our-brands.