Thomas D. Hill’s leadership as the CEO of ESI Construction has been pivotal in transforming the company into one of the most well-regarded construction firms in the United States. Headquartered in Meridian, Idaho, ESI Construction was founded over five decades ago and has since become a leader in general contracting and construction management. The company now operates across 41 states and 36 countries, providing a wide range of services in retail, education, healthcare, commercial offices, public works, industrial, grocery, hospitality, restaurants, community living, fuel, and water and wastewater.
Tom Hill, ESI Construction’s, entrance into the construction industry came after several years in the banking sector in Dallas, Texas. From 1985 to 1992, he worked in banking before acquiring ESI, a dormant construction firm, in 1992. He revitalized the company with just four employees and began its journey toward becoming a major player in the industry. Over the next three decades, under his stewardship, ESI Construction grew to employ more than 1,100 people, providing each of them with employer-paid medical and dental benefits. His focus on taking care of employees has become a cornerstone of his leadership approach.
Under Hill’s leadership, ESI Construction has built a reputation for delivering quality work and outstanding service. The company’s emphasis on safety, integrity, and a commitment to fulfilling its promises has garnered the trust of clients from various industries. Over the years, ESI has built strong relationships with over 450 clients, including well-known brands like Albertsons, Arby’s, AutoZone, Bed Bath & Beyond, Best Buy, Chick-fil-A, Costco, Homewood Suites, JC Penney, Kohl’s, Krispy Kreme, Kroger, Old Navy, Payless Shoe Source, PetSmart, Popeyes, Ross, Starbucks, Walgreens, Walmart, and Whole Foods. These partnerships are a testament to the company's consistency in meeting client expectations and delivering high-quality projects on time.
Hill’s ability to successfully lead ESI Construction has earned him recognition, including the 40 Under 40 award. This recognition highlights his ability to grow the company while maintaining a strong commitment to safety and quality. With an Experience Modification Rate of 0.43, ESI Construction has demonstrated a serious commitment to safety on every project, ensuring that its workers and clients are always protected.
ESI Construction offers extensive services, including construction management, general contracting, design-build, self-performance, special projects, and service and maintenance. The company’s construction management process emphasizes transparency, ensuring clients are informed about project budgets, quality, and schedules. Their general contracting services are built on a foundation of proven project management practices and cutting-edge construction technology, allowing the company to deliver on its promises. Through design-build services, ESI Construction helps minimize the complexity of managing multiple contractors, which results in shorter project timelines.
Under Hill’s leadership, ESI Construction expanded its self-perform field trade work. This includes concrete paving, structural concrete, site concrete, flatwork, earthwork, rough carpentry, fixturing, and specialty electrical services. The company’s Special Projects Division focuses on smaller construction projects, tenant improvements, and remodels, while the Express Division tackles urgent tasks quickly and efficiently. The team in the Express Division is available around the clock, providing critical services ranging from check-stand repairs to full-scale structural remodels for national clients.
In addition to his work at ESI Construction, Thomas D. Hill is a dedicated philanthropist. He founded ESI Cares in 2018, a nonprofit organization focused on giving back to the community. The organization runs a metal recycling program, with proceeds benefiting both ESI Cares and local community initiatives. Hill is personally involved in several charitable endeavors, including donating a car to the Notus High School Driver’s Ed program, sponsoring students at private schools, and supporting local charities like the Wishes for Warriors Charity and the Victory Center for Autism. He and his wife, Kimbra, have also funded a full-time School Resource Officer (SRO) at a local private school since the onset of COVID-19 and have contributed to the Caldwell Police Department’s mounted unit.
The Hill family’s charitable work extends beyond local initiatives. For the past decade, they have supported the Caldwell Fair 4-H Sale and the Dress for Success Boise branch, where Kimbra serves on the board. They have sponsored numerous families during the holiday season, particularly single mothers, and have helped significantly impact the lives of many individuals in their community.
Born in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Thom Hill, CEO, graduated with honors from Baylor University in 1985, earning a BBA in Finance. He then led ESI Construction and raised his family in Eagle, Idaho. Tom and his wife, Kimbra, have two children, Piper and Teddy. Outside of work, Hill enjoys spending time outdoors with his family, whether hiking, flying, or simply enjoying nature.
Thomas D. Hill has played an integral role in the success of ESI Construction, growing the company from a small operation to an industry leader. His focus on quality, safety, and client satisfaction has been key to ESI’s long-term success. Additionally, his philanthropic efforts demonstrate his commitment to giving back to the community and making a positive impact. Through his leadership and dedication, Hill has made a lasting impression in the construction industry and the lives of those he has helped. Thomas D. Hill’s legacy of service and excellence continues to shape the future of ESI Construction and the communities it serves.
