Under The Hard Hat with Christian Martinez

At Clark, we are proud to be made up of individuals from a variety of backgrounds and talents. Our “Under the Hard Hat” series is designed to showcase the diverse people who make up the Clark team.

We sat down with Christian Martinez, an assistant superintendent with Clark Civil currently working on the Takoma Substation and Blue Line Traction Power Upgrades projects, to learn about his career. 

Tell us a little bit about your background.

I was born in Washington, DC, and raised in Hyattsville, Maryland. My parents are from El Salvador. I grew up playing soccer and watching sports. I like to fish and go to the beach. 

How long have you been with Clark?

I started in the industry and with Clark in July 2013. My brother, Saul Castillo, introduced me to the company, actually - he’s a foreman with Clark Water.

What are some of the roles you’ve held?

I'm going to have 10 years with Clark this year. When I joined the company, I was a laborer. I worked my way up to become a carpenter, and after another eight years, I became a carpenter foreman. Last year, I got promoted to be an assistant superintendent.

What is your most memorable project?

In 2015, the Dulles East/West Baggage Handling & Concourse C/D Rehabilitation project was when I really started to grow with the company. Thanks to my foreman at the time, Hugo, and then-Superintendent Matt Ellis for giving me more responsibilities, trusting me, and guiding me in that work. There were a lot of problem-solving situations, and that job built my work ethic.

What is your proudest accomplishment?   

Working my way up the company. When I first started, I never saw myself becoming an assistant superintendent. I feel very blessed and thankful for everyone I've worked alongside.  

What advice would you share with new craft workers and anyone who wants to grow their career with Clark?

The biggest advice I can give anyone is to not give up. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. There will be days where things will be hard and you’ll have doubts, but if this is something that you really want to do, you have to keep pushing forward. One of the things I tell my team is that there will be days when your foremen or your supervisors will be giving you a lot of feedback. Nobody does it to make you look bad. Feedback is a learning experience.

What is your favorite thing about working in construction?

My favorite thing is that every day something different is going on. You learn something every day, and you’re challenged with new things all the time. 

What is your favorite thing about working at Clark?

Everyone in the company is here to help each other. Everyone I have worked with has been great: this feels like a second family. I feel comfortable talking to all of my coworkers and everyone in general, and there are so many opportunities.