You could say Neil Pardue’s position as the General Superintendent, the manager of all the Davie Construction Project Superintendents, was in his blood from the start. Growing up in Stokes County, around the Sauratown Mountains, and later in King, NC, he was surrounded by family in the profession. Two of his uncles were Superintendents with George W. Kane Construction and brought their young nephew along to help them work on the family farm and at their job sites.
“I started my career by learning from guys who had been in the industry all their lives. I listened, watched, and helped every chance I could, and I asked a lot of questions,” said Neil. “My first professional job was as a carpenter. Since I had grown up around the guys I was working with, they were familiar with my experience and the skills I had developed. We were all Stokes County neighbors, and there was a seamless sense of community, whether we were working together on our farms or on the construction site.”
Like many others at Davie, Neil’s first contact with the company came when a former colleague recruited him. In his case, it was Brad Chapman, whom he had worked with at A. Watts. Brad shared his positive experience at Davie, which motivated Neil to make a change as well. Neil brought strong dedication and loyalty to his mentors to his new role.
“I have always given my very best at everything I do. I wanted to become the best superintendent I could be and make all the men who took the time to show and teach me proud of what I have become. If it weren’t for their interest and generosity in my life, I would not be where I am today.”
Neil now continues this legacy at Davie Construction by helping those he works with. “I teach them everything I have learned from being in the industry for a long time and having had great men helping me along the way.” In his position as General Supervisor, Neil is responsible for overseeing all ongoing jobs across the southeast. “I read all the daily reports from every job. I am always planning and scheduling, not just for my jobs that I’m running directly, but also helping the other superintendents with their projects. My phone is always on, day or night, so any superintendent or subcontractor can reach me for help or if they have questions. I work closely with Keith Callahan on day-to-day field operations and also assist any project managers with questions or concerns. Even with all this office work, I still enjoy getting my hands dirty, and will jump in and help the crews every chance I get,” he said. “The best part of my job is getting to know the team and helping them improve their skills and grow professionally.”
Neil believes that treating everyone like family is what has enabled Davie Construction to thrive for over 30 years. “No matter what happens, our team ensures clients get the best project possible.” He urges everyone, even experienced staff, to ask questions. “Never assume you know everything. Learn something new every day in this industry and in life.”
When Neil isn’t helping others at work, he says, “I spend as much time as I can with Michelle, the love of my life, my daughter Cassidy, and her five kids, who are so much fun on weekends when I’m in town. My son Cody, who has special needs, has taught me patience and commitment, even when it seems impossible. He’s who I look up to; he’s made me who I am today.” Neil’s lessons in patience, commitment, and family resonate with the Davie team. We’re grateful for his inspiration and example.