STEVE ALDRIDGE
Chief Investment Officer | Owner
"I believe in fostering innovation and creating opportunities for growth. Maintaining a culture of care, passion, and pride is what makes us truly great."
A Career Built on Hands-On Experience and Strategic Vision
Steve Aldridge's journey to becoming Chief Investment Officer at Aldridge is rooted in his early hands-on experience in the field. Starting in 1992 as a helper with Fleet, Steve spent his summers gaining valuable knowledge, which led him to become a full-time Local 9 electrician. After three years in the field, Steve transitioned into management roles, eventually rising to Executive Vice President in 2011. By 2015, he became the Chief Operating Officer, where he oversaw operations, training, development, and corporate risk management. Now, as CIO, Steve is responsible for the company’s financial performance, strategy, risk management, and overall vision.
Embracing Servant Leadership
Steve’s career has been marked by significant milestones, including managing one of Aldridge’s largest projects, where he navigated challenges like delays, tough terrain, and scope changes. His innovative approach, particularly in adapting means and methods, demonstrated his ability to lead in the face of adversity. This project, among others, provided Steve with the experience needed to transition from operations to risk and finance, where he could focus on broader corporate strategy. His education at the Booth School of Business further refined his strategic thinking, positioning him as a key driver of Aldridge’s growth.
Influenced by his mentors, Steve learned the importance of developing people and giving them the autonomy to succeed. His mentors played pivotal roles in shaping Steve’s approach to leadership, emphasizing risk management and the value of self-education. Steve’s leadership style focuses on mentoring others and supporting their growth is a top priority.
Preserving the Family Culture and Driving Future Success
A strong advocate for maintaining Aldridge’s family culture, Steve emphasizes consistency, controlled growth, and the importance of diverse training and development programs. He is particularly focused on ensuring that the company remains agile and prepared to tackle the most challenging projects. His goals include maintaining the company’s reputation for safety and quality, expanding into growth markets, and adopting new technologies to keep the team challenged and passionate about their work. For Steve, it’s also essential to keep the work environment fun and to attract and retain top talent.
Upholding the Family Legacy
Outside of work, Steve enjoys hunting, fishing, skiing, cars, and fitness, often forming connections with others who share these interests. He believes that taking time for self-reflection and maintaining hobbies is crucial for sustaining passion in both life and work. Steve’s legacy at Aldridge is one of fostering a culture of care and concern, with a deep commitment to passion, pride, and dedication. He aims to ensure that the company remains quick and nimble in responding to market changes while upholding the values that make Aldridge a great place to work.
Education
Purdue University - Business Management
Chicago University Booth School of Business - Executive Management
Local 9 Lineman School
Personal Interests
Hunting
Fishing
Skiing
Cars
Fitness
Associations & Affiliations
Illinois Road and Transportation Builders Association (IRTBA)
JDRF Sponsor - Breakthrough T1D