Brad Smith

President, Hagerman, Inc.

Memorable project

$30 million renovation to Memorial Coliseum, which included raising the roof by more than 40 feet

Alma mater

Purdue University, Building Construction Management

Indiana University, Executive Leadership Program

Favorite food

Steak and potatoes

With parents who owned a mechanical contracting company, Brad Smith grew up in a construction family. “Around the dinner table, I heard all about the industry,” he says. “I loved the hands-on nature of the business and naturally followed that path.”

Responsible for all work performed by the Fort Wayne office, Brad has been with The Hagerman Group since starting as an intern in 1998. Since then, he has spent time in every department, giving him a thorough understanding of Hagerman’s core business.

“I had goals early on and was encouraged to pursue them,” says Brad. “At Hagerman, if you have an idea, you’re given the freedom to explore it. That culture has been passed down through the generations and is why so many people want to work here.”

When it comes to construction, Brad enjoys both the projects and the people and can see opportunities from multiple perspectives. Whether it’s fostering internal culture or strategizing with a client during preconstruction, Brad loves meeting with people and interacting with different personalities.

Outside of the office, Brad likes hunting and spending time with his family. A natural teacher, he has coached since graduating college and currently coaches travel baseball and basketball.

Community causes

Church, Junior Achievement Board of Directors, Ducks Unlimited, and organizations that support children