Brant Zirker (Lifescape Colorado, Denver) was honored with the 2016 MVP ELITE award for his “can do, whatever it takes” attitude toward getting the job done. The ELITE Award for Most Valuable Player (MVP) recognizes an employee who has made an exceptional contribution through his or her involvement, leadership and ability to make a difference in the company.

When others may throw up their hands, Zirker looks for a way to meet the goals he sets. He has earned the respect of his co-workers by being a man of great character. 

“Brant is a true problem solver,” noted one Lifescape colleague. “Solving daily coordination of subcontractors and creative installation methods for patios, irrigation and walls and then being able to switch gears and coordinate with his wife on who gets picked up from school and taken to soccer practice, etc. Brant is the consummate professional and an undeniable leader in our company.”

On one construction job, several large stones weighing about a ton each were left on the road by the vendor, who was supposed to maneuver them down hillside on an ATV with skis. Zirker was left with a problem. He had to figure a way to get 30 stones down this hill of wilderness, which had no machine access, without injuring his crew or the existing ponderosa pine and scrub oak. Zirker, a proud Boy Scout Troup leader, created a rope pulley system to get the stones down the hillside safely.

“Brant allows those around him to be more successful. He is a patient teacher and trainer for the foreman and crews, he runs the jobs and communicates with the clients. His positive attitude and humble nature motivates others,” explained another co-worker.

This exemplary leader is also caring and compassionate, going out of his way to help those in need. After working late on a Friday night to welcome H-2B crews from Mexico, the bilingual Zirker realized that the new arrivals had no furniture, dishes, or bedding. He went to Goodwill and purchased items at his own expense and delivered supplies to these new team members.

And during the 2013 floods, he went out into the neighboring community, even though he did not live in a badly flooded area, and helped families pump water out of their basements and provided disaster relief for many.

Zirker’s selfless, caring attitude has earned not only an award but the respect and appreciation of his co-workers and clients.

Read more in this issue of Colorado Green NOW:
Metco celebrates 30 years
Giving back is part of JBK culture
ALCC pollinator pages support Pollinator Week
ALCC wins the gold