Thomas D. Hill has been the cornerstone of ESI Construction's growth and success. As the CEO of this prominent general contracting and construction management firm based in Meridian, Idaho, Hill has led the company to new heights, expanding its operations across 41 states and 36 countries. Established over 50 years ago, ESI Construction works in various sectors, including retail, healthcare, education, hospitality, public works, and industrial projects.
Hill’s career began in the banking industry, where he developed key financial and business skills for several years. From 1985 to 1992, he worked in the banking sector in Dallas, Texas. In 1992, Tom Hill, CEO, made the strategic decision to acquire ESI, a dormant company, and began the task of revitalizing it. With just four employees, Hill set out to rebuild the company. Over several decades, Hill’s leadership transformed ESI Construction into a thriving business that employs more than 1,100 people. His commitment to his employees is evident in the company’s fully employer-paid medical and dental insurance, which ensures their well-being.
Under Hill’s leadership, ESI Construction has become known for its commitment to high-quality work, safety, and customer satisfaction. The company has built lasting relationships with over 450 clients, including well-known names 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 reflect Hill’s ability to lead the company in a way that consistently exceeds expectations.
Hill’s entrepreneurial success has earned him the 40 Under 40 award, an honor recognizing his achievements in growing ESI Construction. Throughout his tenure as CEO, Hill has maintained a strong focus on safety. Under his leadership, ESI Construction has completed over 79.5 million square feet of retail projects while maintaining an excellent Experience Modification Rate of 0.43. This safety record demonstrates the company’s commitment to providing a secure working environment for employees and clients.
ESI Construction offers various services, including construction management, general contracting, design-build, self-performance, and special projects. The company’s construction management services focus on transparency, informing clients about project budgets, schedules, and quality. In general contracting, ESI applies a proven project management process and cutting-edge construction technology to execute client designs efficiently. The company’s design-build services streamline projects by reducing the complexity of managing multiple contractors, ultimately reducing timelines.
Hill also spearheaded the expansion of ESI Construction’s self-perform field trade work. The company specializes in concrete paving, structural concrete, earthwork, flatwork, rough carpentry, fixturing, and specialty electrical services. ESI’s Special Projects Division focuses on smaller-scale construction tasks, such as tenant improvements and remodels, while the Express Division provides timely service for urgent needs. This division operates 24/7, ensuring that clients’ needs are met promptly and efficiently.
Beyond his professional achievements, Thomas D. Hill is deeply committed to philanthropy. In 2018, he founded ESI Cares, a nonprofit organization supporting various local causes. One of the key programs of ESI Cares is its metal recycling initiative, which generates funds to support both nonprofit and community development projects. Hill has donated to several causes, including a car to Notus High School’s Driver’s Ed program, sponsoring field trips for local elementary school students, and covering tuition for private school students. He and his wife, Kimbra, supported local causes such as the Caldwell Police Department’s mounted unit and the Caldwell Fair 4-H Sale.
Hill’s dedication to education is also evident in his philanthropic contributions. He has been a donor to the Victory Center for Autism since 2008 and has personally sponsored several students attending Boise State University, covering their tuition costs. These contributions reflect Hill’s commitment to supporting educational opportunities and helping young people achieve their goals.
Tom Hill, ESI Construction, was born in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and graduated with honors from Baylor University in 1985 with a BBA in Finance. After completing his education, Hill moved to Idaho, where he would ultimately take the reins of ESI Construction. He and his wife, Kimbra, now reside in Eagle, Idaho, with their two children, Piper and Teddy. Hill enjoys spending time with his family outside of work, traveling, hiking, and flying.
Thomas D. Hill’s leadership has been key to ESI Construction’s success. His focus on quality, safety, and client satisfaction has helped ESI become a trusted name in the construction industry. Hill’s commitment to philanthropy, particularly in education and community service, demonstrates his desire to make a lasting impact. Through his leadership, vision, and generosity, Thomas D. Hill continues to set a high standard for excellence in the construction industry and his community.