Thomas D. Hill
ESI construction CEO
Thomas D. Hill has had a remarkable impact on the construction industry, especially through his tenure as CEO of ESI Construction. Under his leadership, the company based in Meridian, Idaho, has flourished into a recognized leader in general contracting and construction management. With operations spread across 41 states and 36 countries, ESI Construction has built a vast portfolio of retail, healthcare, education, and public works projects. The company’s consistent growth and dedication to excellence directly reflect Hill’s leadership and vision.
From Banking to Building: A Strategic Career Shift
Before transitioning into the construction world, Thomas D. Hill spent several years in the banking sector in Dallas, Texas. From 1985 to 1992, he honed his skills in financial management, which later proved invaluable when he decided to acquire ESI Construction. In 1992, he took over a dormant company with limited operations and brought it back to life. With just four employees, he began the challenging process of reviving the firm. Over the next 30 years, his efforts resulted in a thriving company with more than 1,100 employees. This transformation was not just a business success but also a testament to Hill's resilience and strategic approach to leadership.
Building a Reputation for Excellence
Under Hill's leadership, ESI Construction quickly became known for its integrity, quality of service, and ability to deliver results on time and within budget. As a result of Tom Hill CEO's hard work and business acumen, ESI Construction built relationships with major clients such as Walmart, Costco, Albertsons, and Boise State University, among many others. Over time, Hill and his team developed relationships with over 450 clients, helping to solidify the company’s position in the industry. Hill’s ability to foster these relationships and maintain high standards for service has been key to the company’s success.
His leadership has not gone unnoticed; in fact, Hill was recognized with the 40 Under 40 award, an acknowledgment of his outstanding achievements and leadership in the business world. However, what sets him apart is his business achievements and his dedication to creating a culture of quality, safety, and integrity within the company.
ESI Construction's Comprehensive Services
ESI Construction offers an array of services designed to meet the diverse needs of its clients. These services include construction management, general contracting, design-build, self-performance, and special projects. Hill has been instrumental in refining the company’s construction management process, ensuring transparency at every project stage. This transparency lets clients stay informed about the budget, quality, and schedule, ensuring trust between all parties.
One of the areas in which Hill focused on growth was the company’s self-perform work. This includes concrete paving, structural concrete, earthwork, rough carpentry, and more. By expanding this aspect of the business, ESI Construction has maintained more control over its projects, delivering greater value to its clients while ensuring the highest standards of quality and safety.
Commitment to Safety and Responsibility
At ESI Construction, safety is a top priority. Under Hill’s leadership, the company has completed over 79.5 million square feet of retail projects while maintaining a strong emphasis on safety. The company’s Experience Modification Rate (EMR) of 0.43 reflects the effectiveness of its safety protocols and practices, which have been embedded into the company culture.
Additionally, Hill has worked hard to ensure that safety is not just a policy but a core value of the company. Through ongoing training and a commitment to adhering to the highest safety standards, ESI Construction has minimized workplace incidents and created a safe environment for all employees.
Giving Back to the Community
Thomas D. Hill is deeply committed to making a positive impact not only in the construction industry but also in the community. In 2018, he established ESI Cares, a nonprofit organization that supports various community initiatives. One of the organization's primary programs is a metal recycling initiative that generates funds to support local charitable causes.
Hill’s commitment to community service is equally impressive. Over the years, he has contributed to local schools, charities, and organizations. For instance, he has sponsored numerous field trips for Notus Elementary and has personally supported students in private schools. Together with his wife, Kimbra, he has made significant contributions to causes such as the Caldwell Fair 4-H Sale, the Wishes for Warriors Charity, and the Victory Center for Autism.
His philanthropic efforts are an extension of his belief in the importance of giving back. Hill has been dedicated to supporting families during the holidays, sponsoring families, and contributing to local initiatives that help those in need. His commitment to community service has shaped the values of ESI Construction, where giving back is a fundamental principle.
Education and Personal Life
A graduate of Baylor University in Waco, Texas, Thomas D. Hill earned his Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Finance in 1985. His education laid the groundwork for his future business success, and his background in finance has been a critical factor in the strategic growth of ESI Construction.
Originally from Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Hill graduated from Lincoln High School before attending Baylor University. In 2015, he married Kimbra, and the couple has two children, Piper and Teddy. They live in Eagle, Idaho, where they enjoy an active outdoor lifestyle. Hill is an avid traveler and enjoys flying, hiking, and exploring the outdoors with his family.
Looking Forward: Continuing to Lead with Integrity
Today, Thomas D. Hill continues to lead ESI Construction with the same commitment to excellence that has defined his entire career. Under his direction, the company has consistently completed high-quality projects while maintaining its core values of safety, integrity, and client satisfaction.
As Hill looks to the future, he remains focused on expanding ESI Construction’s presence while maintaining the company’s reputation for exceptional service. His leadership has set a high standard in the construction industry, and his ongoing dedication to his employees and the community ensures that ESI Construction will continue to thrive for years to come.
Tom Hill ESI Construction is a business leader whose vision, dedication, and commitment to excellence have been integral to the success of ESI Construction. His legacy is not only defined by the company’s growth but also by his lasting impact on the community and his dedication to giving back. The values he has instilled in ESI Construction ensure that the company will remain a trusted name in the construction industry for generations to come.
