Having grown up on a dairy farm, Jim Lathrop knew he wanted a career in a field “where work ethic and determination still meant something.”

“I chose to come to Ames because I wanted a more safety and family-oriented company that would allow me to grow with them,” he says.  

As a construction manager, he spends his days working with owners and project managers, always looking for the safest, most cost-effective method to build what they want. He enjoys watching a project plan come to fruition and working as a team with the people who make it happen.

“I really enjoy mentoring new people into the industry. At Ames, if a person has the drive and shows that they care, they can achieve as much as they want.”

Jim describes his wife, Carrie, and four daughters as his foundation. “We have a small ranch in Wisconsin where we raise cattle, and she lets me fix up old tractors with the girls.” 

RAPID FIRE QUESTIONS

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?

We plan to see the castles in Germany and Romania someday.

Favorite band/concert/music genre:

Brandi Carlile in concert.

What is your favorite tool or piece of equipment on the job?

I really enjoy watching tractors and pans move mountains. It mixes my farming roots with construction. A good pan operation can build almost the whole job on a building site.

Favorite TV show, movie, book, or podcast:

Movie: “It’s a Wonderful Life.” Book: “Atlas Shrugged” by Ayn Rand.

You have to sing karaoke. What song do you pick?

Anything by Pearl Jam.

What is a family tradition you look forward to each year?

I really enjoy getting the family together for Christmas.

What is the best gift you’ve ever received?

My wife and my children.

What is your favorite meal or dessert?

A good pork roast or prime rib.