2024 has been a milestone year for McGuire and Hester, with the seamless integration of CF&T Pumping into our operations shining as a prime example of how collaboration and alignment lead to success. Though CF&T Pumping and McGuire and Hester operate under separate names, internally, we are truly ONE TEAM—sharing resources, expertise, and a unified mission to deliver high-quality projects with efficiency and precision.
What does #TWBTR mean? It stands for “Together We Build Things Right,” a guiding principle that reflects our dedication to collaboration, innovation, and excellence in every project we undertake.
Transforming Collaboration
This year highlighted the incredible potential of a unified team approach. By aligning efforts, streamlining processes, and fostering open communication, CF&T Pumping and McGuire and Hester have set a new standard for project delivery. From material delivery to application, our collaboration has simplified workflows, improved project timelines, and maximized efficiency.
CF&T isn’t just about pumping concrete—it’s about providing innovative solutions to meet a variety of project needs. From concrete belting equipment for pervious concrete and landscape materials to delivering rock and aggregates, CF&T continues to expand its value to other McGuire and Hester groups like Concrete, Landscape, and Grading.
This holistic approach allows us to leverage our in-house capabilities not only for internal projects but also for our direct clients, offering them unparalleled efficiency and quality.
Meet the Team Behind the Success
The success of CF&T Pumping wouldn’t be possible without the expertise, dedication, and teamwork of its outstanding crew. Here’s a closer look at the individuals driving this success:
- Al Valdez – Operations Manager
With decades of industry experience, Al brings unparalleled expertise to the team. Formerly the owner of his own pumping business, Al has been with CF&T for six years, managing operations with precision and care. Fun fact: Al is an avid golfer and has been hitting the links for 45 years! - Joel Luis – Project Specialist
Joel is a proud graduate of Chico State’s prestigious Concrete Industry Management program—one of only five universities in the United States to offer this specialized degree. With 2.5 years at McGuire and Hester, Joel has brought invaluable technical expertise and an infectious enthusiasm for the industry, playing a key role in our success. Fun fact: Joel has been passionate about soccer since third grade and continues to play recreationally! - Armando Garibay – Operator of the Year, 2024
Armando is one of our most experienced pumpers, proficient in operating everything from line pumps to our 58m and 61m big iron. His dedication and skill earned him the prestigious title of Operator of the Year in 2024. Armando’s expertise is unmatched, making him a cornerstone of our team. - Robert Turner – Versatile Pumper and Bilingual Communicator
Robert, like Armando, is highly skilled at operating a range of equipment, from line pumps to the big iron. His bilingual abilities in English and Spanish enhance communication across projects. Robert’s versatility and dedication make him an invaluable member of the CF&T team. Fun fact about Robert is that he is bilingual and speaks both English and Spanish.
A Call to Collaboration
Through this unified team approach, McGuire and Hester and CF&T Pumping have redefined what it means to work together. We encourage everyone to explore the full range of in-house solutions CF&T offers for belting and pumping needs. By tapping into these resources, we not only strengthen our internal processes but also provide superior solutions for our clients.
From Practice to Action
CF&T’s Pumping expertise played a critical role in the completion of our Pump, Place and Finish Job #3231- RJS-1601 Broadway in Redwood City which began for us in July 2023 and finished in October 2024.
The project demanded an aggressive schedule, with McGuire and Hester’s pump, place, and finish crews completing over 52 placements in just 15 months. This involved placing over 35,000 cubic yards of concrete and finishing over 600,000 square feet of flatwork within 15 months.
The Broadway Plaza mixed-use project in Redwood City comprises two development phases: a mixed-use office/residential component located at 1401 Broadway, and a retail component across the street at 2201 Bay Road. Kier + Wright has provided engineering and surveying work to support the planning and ongoing construction of the development.
Looking Ahead
As we continue to grow and innovate, the partnership between CF&T Pumping and McGuire and Hester will remain a cornerstone of our success. Together, we’re building more than just projects—we’re building a legacy of excellence, efficiency, and teamwork.
Here’s to the CF&T team for their incredible contributions in 2024 and beyond!