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Crossland’s Texas Area Superintendent Receives Prestigious Award

February 3, 2024 | 4 minute read

Ben Harris brings home the Red Iron Award at Crossland’s Annual Christmas Party 

Ben Harris recently received the Red Iron Award, named after our founder and our company’s most prestigious honor given to one outstanding employee. Ben, our Area Superintendent for Crossland’s Texas Division, is more than a seasoned professional in the construction industry; he’s a dedicated individual whose journey with the company spans over two decades. Ben’s story with Crossland is one of determination, growth, and commitment.

How it all began:
In 2003, Ivan Jr. offered Ben an opportunity to work in our Arkansas division. However, he hesitated to move his newlywed wife to Northwest Arkansas. He took another job and was only there two weeks when Ivan called him again. Ben and his wife, Alisha, took a day trip to Arkansas with Ivan, and the rest is pretty much history. An offer was made, and weeks later, they were making the move. 

Ben started as a field engineer, running concrete, dirt, and steel crews for a couple of years, and quickly advanced to an assistant superintendent, then to a superintendent for the next eight years. Fun Fact: During his role as a Superintendent, building different projects, they picked up and moved for each job he was a part of. They lived in eight different houses in six years across five states: Arkansas, Oklahoma, Missouri, Kansas, and finally, Texas, which has been their home now for ten years.

His move to Texas in 2014 marked a pivotal moment in Ben’s career when he assumed the role of Area Superintendent. We asked him about what he finds most rewarding in his job, and he said, “Being a part of success stories, whether contributing to the success of a project or helping individuals realize their true potential. I enjoy being able to share my personal experiences, successes, and failures in the hopes that it will help someone whose shoes I’ve walked in before.” 

This isn’t the first award given to Ben for his efforts. He also won the Red Iron Extra Mile Award in 2011. However, to put his most recent accomplishment into perspective, the award recipient is chosen out of 1000+ individuals. He acknowledges these honors with humility, recognizing the legacy of our founder, Ivan Sr., and admits he strives to embody the positive qualities associated with him in his job. 

Making an impact: 
We interviewed Ben’s colleagues and even customers who work with him, all of whom showered him with praise. Words they used to describe him were genuine, humble, with a disarming personality. Colleagues appreciate his support, approachability, and dedication to the craft. From handling tough conversations to showcasing a calm demeanor in challenging situations, Ben has earned many accolades, but mostly – someone who is dedicated to the job and the company. 

When we asked what his favorite part of working at Crossland was, he said, “We’re a team. Not a bunch of individuals looking to make a name for themselves. People genuinely want to help one another, and no one is too good to do whatever it takes, regardless of title or tenure. We don’t compromise on culture. It’s what makes us uniquely Crossland.” 

On a personal note: 
Beyond work, Ben’s personal life reflects a love for the outdoors and family. Married for 20 years to his wife Alisha, Ben enjoys spending time on the water with their three children, twins Aidan and Ethan (15) and Chance (12). 

As Crossland continues to nurture a culture centered around teamwork, employees like Ben play a crucial role in sustaining this mission. Ben truly embodies the spirit of the Red Iron Award through his unwavering commitment to success and positive impact on his co-workers, division, and the company.