SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS
Jim has worked in the forestry and construction industry for over 30 years and brings many years of valuable experience to the work he performs.  He spent many years working for both large and small construction companies, acquiring experience and knowledge in nearly every aspect of forestry, site work and utilities.

Jim's experience includes general contracting, land clearing, levee work, road building, site preparation, water main installation and repair, sewer and septic installation, demolition, rockery installation, landscaping, grading and more.  Jim has never found a job that was too challenging for him.  He simply figures out a way to complete the task and does it right. 

Before founding Ecklund Excavation & Development, Inc. in 2002, Jim managed his parent's business Ecklund Excavating.  He was able to grow their business from a one-man operation into a corporation of several employees and double digit growth yearly.  He did this by creating a strong network of long lasting business contacts and his commitment to quality workmanship.  As Owner and President of Ecklund Excavation & Development, Inc.,  Jim believes in exceeding the expectations of his customers.  This commitment to quality and customer satisfaction has created a strong, solid business that is able to withstand the ups and downs of the construction industry.

Jim has eliminated safety incidents on construction projects by implementing weekly safety meetings, assisting personnel in safety monitoring on the job site, identifying site specific hazards and has created a safety award incentive program.  Jim often serves as a working lead and has logged many hours operating all major pieces of heavy equipment including trucks, excavators, brushers, dozers, backhoes, graders, etc.   Jim has worked in both the private and public sectors.  He has subcontracted with large private contractors on major multimillion dollar projects as well as serving as prime contractor for many government and private contracts.  Because of Jim's extensive knowledge and mechanic training Ecklund Excavation experiences very little down time due to very good maintenance and quick repairs.  

Jim has an excellent ability to read and interpret instructions, blueprints and drawings

EMPLOYMENT HISTORY

President & Owner   Ecklund Excavation & Development, Inc   2002 – Present
Lead Superintendent, Estimator, Dispatch   Ecklund Excavating, Inc    1997-2002
Supervisor, Operator  --  Starren Excavating     1995-1997
Truck Boss, Truck Driver  --  Ms. Lloyd Trucking     1992-1995
Mechanic  --  Western Fleet And Marine

TRAINING AND LICENSING

First Aid/CPR
Flagger Certification
Defensive Driving
Welders Training
Diesel Mechanic Course

SUMMARY OF QUALIFICATIONS:  
A well-organized, dependable, results-oriented individual with a commitment to excellence and a solid work ethic. Michelle has a unique blend of environmental knowledge, education and construction experience.   

EDUCATION: 
1992-1996  Washington State University Pullman, WA
Bachelor of Science in Natural Resource Science (Wildlife Biology)  GPA:3.5
Significant Courses: Plant Identification, Technical/Grant Writing , Resource Management, Aquatic Entomology, Conservation Biology, Ornithology, Herpetology, Statistics, Forest Measurements, Wildlife Nutrition, Big Game and Wildlife Management, Wildlife Ecology. 

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE:
2002-present      Ecklund Excavation & Development, Inc.
Office Manager and Environment Specialist
Oversees all office activities, organizes material lists, assists with project estimating and is entrusted with assisting in coordination between the workers, supervisors, machinery and equipment, consultant about environmental issues.

1992-2003   King County Dept. of Natural Resources and Parks
Park Specialist II (1998-2003), Parks Specialist I
Protect and preserve county parks property while maintaining and improving the aesthetics of the land.  Plan and supervise work projects for a single crew. Lead volunteer groups in projects to remove invasive, noxious weeds and replant the area with native plants, educating the volunteer groups about invasive weeds.  Identify, report and remove known hazards.   Routinely perform safety inspections.  Construct, renovate and repair hiking trails.  Apply herbicides, maintaining appropriate records. Establish and maintain inventory of trees and plants.  Provide input to supervisors regarding budget planning.  Investigate and resolve citizen complaints.  Promote good relationships with public and user groups.

ADDITIONAL EXPERIENCE: 
Flagger Certification
First Aid/CPR
Defensive Driving
CISPUS Leadership Training
Global Positioning Systems Training
Marathon Runner