Keeley'n Spotlight: Andy Cottle

Keeley’s strategic plan for growth includes entering new markets, hiring new Keeley’ns, and establishing offices in new cities. As we expand our Industrial services into two distinct groups – Manufacturing and Heavy Industries – we knew it was time to tap into this growth. Andy Cottle, VP of Industrial – Heavy Industries, joined the team to spearhead our Heavy Industries efforts and plant our roots in Canton, OH.

Andy joined the Keeley family in April 2021 and stepped right up to help bring our vision for Heavy Industries to life. It has been a challenging journey, but one that has also been extremely rewarding. Andy feels lucky to lead and grow this team of talented individuals while also tapping into his extensive network and work with people from his past. Being able to step up to this challenge while having full support from leadership has allowed Andy to feel incredibly empowered in his role.

“I have felt extremely empowered in my work as I have basically been tasked with building a brand-new business group for Keeley. The empowerment and faith that Keeley has placed in me has allowed me to overcome challenges and find innovative ways to keep this group growing towards our goals.”

Andy has always had a passion for construction and joined the industry right after he graduated from college in 1999. He wanted to join the industry because he felt drawn to joining a team that has the opportunity to build something that creates value for the greater good of the community. However, his favorite thing about the industry is how fast-paced the work is. Andy has had the ability to work with great teams of people to solve problems that not only have a meaningful impact on the customer, but on the company as a whole. It is a great feeling when a meaningful impact can be seen as a direct result of his projects. The construction industry is always looking for dedicated team members, so if Andy could give a piece of advice to those just starting out in the industry, it would be:

“Be humble and always keep your desire to learn. In this business, you have to learn so much on the jobs that it can overwhelming. One way to do this is by finding a great mentor to help you along the way. This guidance will allow you to keep learning and growing at both the job you have and the job you want in the future.”

Over his construction career, Andy has learned a lot of important lessons. For him, the most valuable lesson has been that hard work and giving that extra effort are the keys to success. This is a business where it doesn’t matter where you went to school or what degree you have. Everyone has a desire to be the best they can be as long as they are willing to work to achieve it. Andy has a lot of things he wants to achieve as he grows the Heavy Industries Group. His vision for the future includes Heavy Industries becoming the largest and most profitable business group at Keeley Construction, all while maintaining an impeccable safety record and quality program. This vision won’t come to life without the support of his team. Andy’s team truly lives out our values and he sees just how Empowered everyone is to enhance Keeley’s growth that has taken place over such a short period of time. They are all incredibly excited for what is to come.

Since joining the team, Andy believes that he has found his career destination. With the growth opportunities, resources, and support he has received, he knows that he can’t find that true family atmosphere anywhere else.

“Our recent advertisement around St. Louis says it all – Why be a number when you can be a Keeley’n? This embodies everything about Keeley. I don’t know a single person who wants to be just a number at a company. At Keeley, you have a voice, you have a career, and you will always have fun. Become a Keeley’n!”

Andy, thank you for your drive, passion, and leadership as we grow our Heavy Industries services. We are so grateful to you and your team for bringing the Keeley name to Ohio and the entire eastern region. Your future is limitless!