Shining a Spotlight on Project Administrator Kelley Osterholtz

In honoring all the amazing women in construction, we’re shining a spotlight on Project administrator Kelley Osterholtz. Admired by everyone on our team for her remarkable work ethic and straight forward, genuine approach, we celebrate Kelley for her 25 years of dedicated service with Aldrich.

Hired in October of 1999, Kelley applied to Aldrich after working 13 years as an accounting administrator for Alliant Techsystems (a spin-off of Honeywell in aerospace). Joining the firm at the turn of the millennium, Kelley has worked for three generations of leadership and seen a lot of changes. “Through the growing pains… at every stage, everyone has helped to achieve success, in small and big ways, by cutting costs, and staying adaptable to change,” said Kelley. 

Kelley has been instrumental in establishing policies and procedures that have directly attributed to the firm’s success. “As the company has grown, I have learned to be flexible in the growth of job responsibilities,” said Kelley, “This job gave me the stability and work ethic I have today.”

“Even though Aldrich is a smaller company there is much to learn about the industry,” is Kelley’s advice to recruits and new employees. “I have developed relationships with subcontractors and colleagues and an understanding of the construction community. Developing relationships with clients such as Northwest Kidney Centers, and subcontractors like Interior Wood Products, Olympic Interiors, and NorthStar Electric to name a few, has made my job easier and more efficient.”

It's not surprising that of all the projects the company has completed during her tenure, Kelley says, “Mercer Island Residence was the most memorable due to the opulent size and finishes of the home.” Completed in 2001, this luxurious three-story residence located on the shores of Lake Washington featured marble in the bathrooms and kitchen, palatial columns, high-end finishes, and wood casework throughout. The home included a wine cellar, an exercise room, an immense walk-in closet, indoor and outdoor pools, and more. 

“What keeps me here is financial stability,” says Kelley. “At prior companies there was always a threat of layoffs, and this has never happened here. That says a lot about Aldrich and how they manage this company.” Kelley encourages company leadership to, “Continue to communicate and recognize everyone’s contributions.”

“Being at Aldrich for 25 years has helped me develop job security, save for retirement, and have a work/life balance,” Kelley said. “I enjoy spending time at our small house by the river, attending the grandkids sporting events, gardening, bike rides, and exercising.”

Thank you, Kelley, for your commitment and invaluable contributions to the company. You continue to make a positive impact on the team by building a lasting legacy over your quarter-century of service which makes you a true pillar of our organization. Congratulations on this remarkable milestone – let’s celebrate like it’s 1999!