MEET THE KAMEX TEAM

LEADERSHIP TEAM

Ryan Fischer, CEO

Ryan Fischer is the CEO of KAMEX. He joined the KAMEX team in 2012 as an Estimator/Project Manager.


Not a stranger to entrepreneurship, Ryan started a lawn service company at the age of 11 that he successfully ran for many years before selling. Prior to joining the KAMEX team, Ryan was an Operator/Estimator at JP Burns Excavating for several years. Ryan brings a passion to his role that can only come from truly loving what you do. Ryan enjoys building positive, lasting relationships with clients, stakeholders, and his growing team at KAMEX Excavating. He is driven by results and takes pride in delivering a quality job on every job. Ryan currently holds a board member seat at the Operating Engineers Local 520 as well as St. Louis Bank in Edwardsville, IL.


Ryan resides in Maryville, Illinois with his wife Kelly and their twin sons.  Ryan enjoys networking in his community and traveling with friends and family.

Mark Crays, President

Mark Crays was introduced to the construction business at a very young age. He credits being raised on a family farm with a small excavating business for his hard work ethic, core values and integrity. Mark joined the Air National Guard upon completion of High School and served as an F-16 Crew Chief where he gained valuable lessons in leadership and served two overseas deployments. During this time, Mark obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in Construction Management from Southern Illinois University. He held the position of project manager and estimator for 8 years at Moniger Excavating prior to partnering with Ryan Fischer and Dave Kamadulski in 2013.


As President, Mark brings 20 years of construction experience in heavy civil/heavy highway scopes of work, and he plays a lead role in field operations. Mark continually delivers successful completion of multi-million-dollar projects through developing great working partnerships with owners, engineers, architects, developers, and local officials. He’s confident in project estimating, proposal preparation, contact negotiations, and project management. Mark is a result-oriented professional who is people driven. He’s a firm believer that the more successful his people become both professionally and personally, the more successful the company will become. His respect for people and the process it takes to reach their goals is his greatest asset to the company.


Mark resides in rural Edwardsville with his wife Ashley and two children, Brooklyn and Bradley.

Cody Trosley, Partner

Estimator/Project Manager

Cody is a Project Manager and Estimator with over 10 years' experience in the construction industry. He graduated from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville with a Construction Management degree in 2012, and started his full-time career working for a Heavy Civil Contractor as an estimator/project manager. Cody works closely with customers, engineers, subcontractors, and construction staff to ensure needs, goals, and standards are met on every project.

Luke  Borrenpohl, Partner

Operation Manager - Utility & Infrastructure

Luke joined the KAMEX team in 2020. His prior work experience was 25+ years as Field Superintendent. Luke is the Operation/ Project Manager for the Utility and Infrastructure Division here at KAMEX. When it comes to getting a plan put together, Luke is an industry leader in our area! Luke prides himself by example. If anyone has worked for Luke or with him, they will attest to his qualities as a person and a leader. As the Company’s Licensed Plumber of record, he analyzes plans and specs and puts detailed schedules and goals out there for us to hit. Taking a project from start to finish, Luke is unmatched in regard to scheduling all aspects of the construction process. His efficiency and effectiveness for the overall logistics of a project of any size, has put KAMEX at the top of our industry! Luke is motivated by people. Luke’s wealth of knowledge in the business and interpersonal skills allows him to build up our personnel’s skills and attain their goals at a rapid pace.

PROJECT MANAGERS

Joe Ripper

General Construction Project Manager/Estimator

Joe Ripper joined the KAMEX team in January 2022 as a project manager and estimator with 30 years of experience in the construction field. Joe attended Southern Illinois University Edwardsville from 1990-1992 and then completed Ranken Technology as a carpenter in 1993. After completion of college, he joined the Carpenters Union Apprenticeship. Joe’s work experience started in residential and has progressed into commercial and heavy industrial industries over the years. He takes the lead in working with clients on design, project budgets, planning, engineering, scheduling, and coordinating all general trade subcontractors from the beginning to the end of each project. Joe takes pride in team leadership to ensure the highest quality of work is produced and positive relationships are created with clients.

CJ Sanders

Project Manager - Mechanical Division

CJ Sanders joined the KAMEX team in 2022 as a project superintendent. Since his start, CJ has become more involved with project management and estimating. He has been an integral part in the growth of the mechanical division of the company. CJ has 16+ years experience as a U.A. Pipefitter. During that time, his involvement in large and small scale industrial and commercial projects has taken him across the country. CJ gained a wealth of knowledge in a wide variety of projects covering refineries, power houses, steel mills, and semi-conductor facilities. In addition to that, a large portion of that time was spent in the Midwest, specializing in water and sewer treatment facilities. CJ’s attention to detail and his drive to better himself and those around him have made him a valuable part of the KAMEX team.

Todd Wall

Estimator/Project Manager

Todd joined the KAMEX team in 2021 as a Project Manager and Estimator with  20+ years’ experience in the construction industry. He graduated from Southern Illinois University Carbondale with a Civil Engineering degree in 2001. Todd has a long standing history of successfully estimating and managing multi-million dollar projects from conceptions to completion. Todd has the ability to manage and coordinate trades, build partnerships, and work collaboratively with owners, engineers, subcontractors, and local officials to ensure the timely and budget friendly completion of the project.

Steve Wright

Professional Land Surveyor/GPS Specialist

Steve has been the Lead Surveyor and GPS Specialist with KAMEX Excavating since 2020. Steve graduated with a BS from Southern Illinois University Carbondale in 1997 and attained his Professional Land Surveyor License. His prior work experience was 24 years as a Machine Control Support Technician with Sitech Midwest. Steve’s skills include: preparing construction site for machine control use; training contractors with GPS rover and GPS heavy machine control equipment; providing ongoing customer service and technical support; and performing all survey-related tasks and analysis of construction sites, utilizing GPS base and rovers, total stations, digital levels, and laser systems. Steve was a member of the United States Navy Reserves for 28 years and served as a Senior Chief Petty Officer.

Tyler Isaacson

Project Engineer

Tyler joined KAMEX in December 2024 as an Assistant Project Manager and Estimator, bringing five years of experience in the carpentry field. He earned a Bachelor's degree in Business and an MBA in Leadership and Strategy from Olivet Nazarene University (2018–2022), where he also was a captain for his college football team.

Tyler began his career as a residential carpenter, working across southern Missouri and the St. Louis area before transitioning into project management. At KAMEX, he supports the General Construction division by assisting with design, planning, scheduling, and subcontractor coordination. With a strong foundation in leadership, he values teamwork and collaboration to ensure smooth project execution and high-quality results.

SAFETY

Bernie Sebold

Director of Health & Safety

Bernie joined the team in 2024, he  has 30 years of experience in occupational and public safety

leadership and education. Bernie holds an MBA from Missouri Baptist University and a BS in Fire Service

Management from SIU-Carbondale. His prior work experience includes five years as Health and Safety

director for a national water and wastewater provider, 24+ years with the City of Alton Fire Department

culminating as Fire Chief/Emergency Management Director, and 20 years as an adjunct instructor for

Lewis and Clark Community College teaching and developing curriculum for fire science and workforce

safety courses. Bernie is very passionate about the safety of his team and the community, and he

continues to maintain his paramedic license which he has held since 1996. Bernie resides in Augusta, MO with his wife Jenn and has three grown children, Hayden, Coleton and Layni.


“We know our talented crafts people are literally our boots on the ground delivering the best product to

our clients, so it is our duty to ensure they are equipped with the knowledge, skills and abilities to

perform their tasks safely every day.”

OFFICE STAFF

Lisa Blackwell

Office Manager

Lisa has been associated with KAMEX for over 30 years. She was hired by the original owners, Leo & Fannie Kamadulski, in 1991. Lisa handles all aspects of payroll, which consists of working with both local and other states’ unions. Lisa resides in Granite City with her husband Brian. When not at work, she enjoys spending time with her family, especially her two grandsons, camping at bluegrass festivals and watching sports.

Brett Heberer

Project Accountant

Brett has been employed with KAMEX for three years. Brett works as a liaison between the office, tech support, employees, and management. He assists in all aspects of our accounting process and streamlines these processes for KAMEX’s future growth. Prior to joining KAMEX, Brett graduated from Southern Illinois University of Edwardsville with an Accounting degree in 2013. After graduating, Brett has gained 8 years of vast experience, and most recently as the Accounting Manager for an agriculture company. He also spent several years working in public accounting, farming, and some carpentry work. Brett currently resides near Okawville, IL with his wife and daughter. When not at work, Brett enjoys spending time with family, friends, and being involved in the outdoors.

Trinity Heintz

Project Accountant

Trinity started at KAMEX in November 2024, bringing with her a diverse background in marketing and accounting, as well as her energetic attitude and vibrant approach to work and collaborate with others. She holds an Integrative Studies degree in Business Administration and Mass Communications from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, where she graduated in 2023. 

Before coming to KAMEX, Trinity gained valuable experience working as a marketing associate at a commercial real estate company, where she developed skills in marketing strategy, social media management, and brand positioning. Alongside her marketing experience, Trinity’s previous role in accounting and payroll equipped her with a strong foundation in Accounts Payable. This has made her proficient in handling vendor relationships and ensuring the smooth flow of day-to-day operations. In her current position, Trinity oversees the accounts payable functions, plays a role in maintaining organization across the office, and she is responsible for helping to manage the company website. Outside of work, Trinity enjoys spending time with her family and friends, whether it's boating at Lake of Egypt or spending time at her family's farm.

Jennifer Olivas

Project Accountant

Jennifer Olivas joined KAMEX in August 2024. She brings her dynamic energy, attention to detail, and creative discipline to her role, ensuring smooth invoicing for KAMEX Services, managing and integrating new content onto the website, entering information into QuickBooks and supporting various office functions. Whether coordinating with project managers or greeting guests in the lobby, Jennifer applies the same drive and dedication that have shaped her career both professionally and personally.

Before joining KAMEX, Jennifer had an illustrious career in the performing arts. Originally from Festus, Missouri, she is a proud BFA graduate in dance from Webster University. Her performances have taken her across Europe, China, Korea and Australia, as well as throughout the United States, including a special appearance on America’s Got Talent. In addition to her performing career, she has choreographed and taught at prestigious institutions like Brigham Young University, Southern Illinois University, Webster University and UMSL.

Juggling life with four kids, Jennifer also pursues her passion for fitness as a CrossFit trainer and Gym Manager carrying over the discipline and energy from her performance background into every aspect of her life.

Heather Woolsey

Contracts Administrator

Heather joined Kamex in September 2024, bringing with her a blend of confidence and expertise, complimented by an upbeat and positive demeanor that fosters a collaborative atmosphere in the office. Heather is responsible for managing the printing of contract documents and ordering essential materials such as plans, specifications, bid bonds, and payment/performance bonds, ensuring project managers receive complete bid packets. Her careful review of contract fine print and application requirements demonstrates her attention to detail before submissions to bonding companies. Additionally, Heather organizes contract documents, payments, and billings in accordance with customer and vendor compliance requirements. Her expertise includes transferring data between Heavy Bid and Heavy Job, establishing HCSS processes, entering information into QuickBooks, and managing DBE listings. With a well-rounded background, she holds a business management degree from Jefferson College and has also pursued studies in nursing to become a home healthcare nurse.

In her free time, Heather enjoys cherishing moments with her husband, children, family, and friends, and she is a passionate animal lover. She relishes outdoor activities such as gardening and dirt racing, along with planning events and taking vacations to new destinations.


LOGISTICS/SHOP MAINTENANCE LEADERSHIP

David "Chump" Gibbs

Master Mechanic

David “Chump” Gibbs  joined the KAMEX team in 2021. He became a member of the Operators Union in 2017 and worked on the pipeline until 2021. He is the shop foreman and lead mechanic for KAMEX Services and comes from a family of experienced mechanics. Chump specializes in welding and fabrication, hydraulic hoses, heavy equipment repair and diagnostics, mobile line boring, field and shop services, fleet maintenance, emergency repairs, cylinder rebuild, and he is competent with dealer compatible software. Chump resides in rural Palmyra with his wife, Jessica and two young children. 

Paul Woolsey

Dispatcher

Paul Woolsey has been the dispatch supervisor at KAMEX since 2016.  He had 25 years of experience in the construction field prior to joining KAMEX.  Paul serves as a job site supervisor, he coordinates and schedules trucks for various jobs, provides mobilization of equipment and is competent in operating equipment.   Paul's strong work ethic and pride in his work make him stand out as a leader of KAMEX logistics.  In his spare time, Paul also devotes his time to volunteering as a Fireman/EMT and serves as the President of the Macoupin County Whitetails Unlimited chapter.  Paul resides in Hettick with his wife Angie, and he's the father of three amazing children.

KAMEX SUPERINTENDENTS


Our site superintendents are the cornerstone of our successful project completions. With a steadfast commitment to delivering superior quality on time, they truly embody the KAMEX spirit. Skilled, adaptable, and masters of communication, these professionals take pride in representing our company with excellence.


John Halteman, Judson Corby, Jimmy “Stick” Chapman, Nick Bishop, Jimmie Cox, Terry

Metz, Dane Braley, Tyrel Henkhaus, Josh Pochek, CJ Sanders, Keith

Athmer, Jason Gibbs, Kary Smith, Cory Hudson, Derek Choate

SHOP SERVICE MECHANICS


Looking for top-notch shop service mechanics in the St. Louis Metro East area? Look no further than KAMEX! With a reputation for excellence and innovation, KAMEX has quickly become an industry leader in the region. From Commercial Warehouse Infrastructure to a wide range of services, our team of expert mechanics is ready to tackle any job with professionalism and expertise. Trust KAMEX for all your mechanical service needs.

Tyler Simpson, Jeremy Wilson, Sam Petcher, Jerry McGill, Logan Shipley, David "Chump" Gibbs, Eddie Bolin, Allan Pettit, Daniel Wolber

LOGISTICS AND TRUCK DRIVERS


We understand the vital role that logistics and truck drivers play in our operations. They are the backbone of our business, ensuring that our mechanical services reach our clients in the St. Louis Metro East efficiently and on time. As we continue to grow and expand into new sectors such as Commercial Warehouse Infrastructure, we rely on our dedicated drivers to deliver excellence every step of the way.

Mike Wilson, Rob Hogle, Sam Sonneborn, Rick Dickerson, Billy Smith, Tyler Plogger, Logan Wickenhauser, Daniel Tate, Paul Woolsey

VACALL TRUCK OPERATORS


At KAMEX, our VAC truck drivers are the unsung heroes behind our top-notch mechanical services in the St. Louis Metro East. These skilled professionals play a crucial role in maintaining commercial warehouse infrastructure and beyond. With their precision and dedication, they keep our operations running smoothly and efficiently. KAMEX takes pride in our team of VAC truck drivers, who ensure that our clients receive the best service possible, every time.

Brian Buhl, Nick Lippoldt, Clayton Campbell

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