Randy Monson is synonymous with Crossland Construction, having been a part of the company since the beginning. Randy’s been with us for 45 years, and what a ride it’s been! His time here has been all about rolling up his sleeves, growing personally and professionally, and working on some truly memorable projects that really made a difference for our company and our community.
The Early Days
When Randy started in 1979, there were no interviews or orientations. “Ivan Sr. just told me to be here Monday, and we’d get to work,” Randy recalled with a chuckle. From day one, he was a core member of the team, working alongside the Crossland brothers Curt, Ivan Jr., and Mike, handling everything from shingling houses to building local projects.
First Projects
Randy’s leadership was apparent from the start, earning him the nickname on the Iola Schools project, “King of the Laborers.” Randy’s first gig as a superintendent was at the Paul Thomas Funeral Home in the early ’80s, a project he dove into with such enthusiasm that he actually got a speeding ticket on the way to the site. The Pittsburg State University Technology Center was a milestone project in Randy’s professional growth. He was sent there along with Jerry Girup to pour sidewalks, and they ended up helping manage the entire project.
Leading With Wit and Wisdom
Despite the tough world of construction, Randy thrived on camaraderie and friendships. He was a mentor to many and truly embodied the spirit of Crossland. People describe him as one of a kind with more wit than ten people combined. He’s part of that generation of people who, plain and simple, ‘get shit done.’ He’s thorough, he’s observant, and his drive was inspiring – he was a company man through and through.
Randy’s work philosophy: “You can’t go wrong with doing the right thing.”
Work ethic is something you learn from watching others, and Randy learned it from his dad. That drive, also a foundational value at Crossland Construction, made Randy stand out.
Loyalty and Dedication
What kept Randy at Crossland all those years? “Looking back, I always thought, if it’s not broken, don’t fix it.” Randy is proud of the strong loyalty he’s felt for the company. It’s given him a stable and rewarding life, something he’s always appreciated.
Randy’s been steering the ship as a Superintendent for years. Juggling schedules, placing the right people in the right spots, and keeping an eye on quality—it’s been a busy and wild ride. But all the hustle has paid off. He’s truly respected. “Whenever I would hop out of a Crossland truck or wear a Crossland shirt, I felt respected and proud—that will forever be a part of my life.”
Embracing Retirement
As Randy steps into retirement, he looks forward to slowing down—spending more time on his 400-acre farm, caring for the cattle, and enjoying more hunting and fishing. Heading into retirement, Randy will continue to cherish the friendships he’s built here at Crossland.
A Fond Farewell
Looking back, Randy said he feels fortunate to have been part of Crossland Construction and is extremely grateful to the Crossland family. “There are so many people who have been influential; it’s hard to name them all,” he says. To Randy, this was more than just a job—it was a life-enriching journey.
As we bid farewell to Randy as an employee, we celebrate his enduring impact on our company and community. His legacy of dedication and integrity will not be forgotten.
Congratulations, Randy, on an outstanding career and a well-deserved retirement!
