Thomas D. Hill

Thomas D. Hill has been at the helm of ESI Construction for over three decades, transforming the company into a respected leader in the construction industry. Under his leadership, ESI Construction has expanded its operations to 41 states and 36 countries, completing various projects across sectors, including retail, healthcare, education, and public works. Hill’s unwavering commitment to quality, safety, and client satisfaction has played a crucial role in shaping the company’s growth, allowing it to deliver exceptional results year after year.

A Career Shift: From Banking to Construction

Before becoming the driving force behind ESI Construction, Thomas D. Hill worked in the banking industry in Dallas, Texas, from 1985 to 1992. During this time, he developed a strong understanding of financial management, operations, and strategic planning. These skills would later prove invaluable when he transitioned into the construction industry. In 1992, Hill acquired ESI Construction, a struggling company with only a small team of four employees. Determined to turn the company around, he applied his business expertise and began revitalizing ESI Construction.

Over the years, Hill’s efforts paid off. Under his leadership, the company grew exponentially, employing over 1,100 people and handling some of the industry's largest and most complex projects. His dedication to building a strong, sustainable business was apparent from the beginning, and his focus on employee well-being has always been a priority. Hill ensured every employee had access to comprehensive medical and dental insurance, fostering a company culture centered on support and security.

Building a Strong Reputation for Quality and Integrity

One of the cornerstones of Thomas D. Hill's success at ESI Construction has been his ability to build long-term relationships with clients. The company has established lasting partnerships with over 450 clients, including well-known brands such as Walmart, Costco, Best Buy, and Boise State University. These relationships are a testament to Hill’s commitment to providing high-quality, reliable service and his ability to deliver projects on time and within budget.

Under his leadership, ESI Construction completed an extensive portfolio of projects across various sectors. The company’s work ranges from large-scale retail developments to educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and government buildings. Hill has consistently emphasized meeting client expectations and ensuring every project is completed to the highest quality standard. His approach to business has made ESI Construction a trusted partner in the construction industry.

Expanding ESI’s Capabilities: Self-Performance and Service

A significant area of focus for Tom Hill CEO, has been expanding ESI Construction’s ability to perform key trades in-house. The company has grown its self-performance capabilities to include concrete paving, structural concrete, earthwork, rough carpentry, and more. This expansion has allowed ESI Construction to maintain greater control over the quality of work and the timeline of each project, ensuring that it meets the highest standards.

In addition to self-performance, Hill has emphasized the importance of service and maintenance. The company’s Special Projects Division handles smaller construction projects, such as tenant improvements and remodels, while the Express Division provides essential maintenance and repair services to clients nationwide. These divisions have enabled ESI Construction to offer a full range of services, ensuring that the company can meet the varied needs of its clients.

A Commitment to Safety and Quality Standards

At ESI Construction, safety has always been a top priority. Under Thomas D. Hill’s leadership, the company has maintained a strong safety record, completing over 79.5 million square feet of retail construction while ensuring its work environment is safe for all employees. The company’s Experience Modification Rate (EMR) of 0.43 demonstrates its commitment to maintaining a safe workplace and minimizing workplace incidents.

In addition to safety, Hill has greatly emphasized the quality of work produced by ESI Construction. His focus on maintaining high standards has contributed to the company’s reputation for delivering exceptional results on every project, regardless of size or complexity. By prioritizing safety and quality, Hill has created an environment where employees and clients can trust the company’s ability to perform at the highest level.

Giving Back to the Community

Thomas D. Hill is deeply committed to positively impacting the community. In 2018, he founded ESI Cares, a nonprofit organization that supports local community initiatives and charitable causes. One of the key programs under ESI Cares is a metal recycling initiative that generates funds to support various nonprofit organizations in the community.

Beyond the work of ESI Cares, Hill has personally supported numerous charitable causes throughout the years. He has donated a car to a local high school driver’s education program, sponsored field trips for students, and provided scholarships for Boise State University students. Hill has also supported local law enforcement and contributed to funding the Caldwell Police Department’s mounted unit. His commitment to giving back extends to his contributions, demonstrating his dedication to making a meaningful difference in the community.

A Family-Oriented Life

Thomas D. Hill graduated from Baylor University in 1985 with a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Finance. His education helped lay the groundwork for his future success, equipping him with the knowledge needed to lead a growing company. Hill’s solid understanding of finance and strategic management has played a significant role in ESI Construction’s ability to achieve sustainable growth over the years.

Originally from Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Hill graduated from Lincoln High School before attending Baylor University. He married Kimbra in 2015, and they have two children, Piper and Teddy. The family lives in Eagle, Idaho, where they enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, traveling, and flying. Hill places a high value on spending time with his family and considers it a key aspect of his life outside his professional responsibilities.

Looking to the Future

Looking ahead, Thomas D. Hill remains focused on expanding ESI Construction’s reach and ensuring that the company continues to meet the evolving needs of its clients. His leadership has positioned ESI Construction as a trusted partner in the construction industry, and Hill’s commitment to quality, safety, and innovation will continue to guide the company’s success for years to come.

As the company moves forward, Hill is committed to maintaining the values that have made ESI Construction a leader in the industry. His focus on employee well-being, safety, and community involvement ensures that the company will continue to thrive and expand into new markets.

Tom Hill ESI Construction has proven himself a dynamic leader, driving ESI Construction to new heights and leaving a lasting impact on the construction industry and the community. His commitment to excellence, safety, and community service has shaped the company’s success and established ESI Construction as a leader in its field. As Hill continues to guide the company, his legacy of growth, integrity, and leadership will continue to influence ESI Construction’s future success for many years.