Balestrieri Team

Get to know the Balestrieri Team

Kenneth R. Balestrieri

President

Cynthia k. balestrieri

Vice President

Anthony F. Balestrieri

Architect & Engineer

Executive Staff

Balestrieri Environmental & Development’s leadership team has been at the helm since the company’s founding in 1992. Ken, Cindy, and Tony take a hands-on approach with employees, clients, and vendors, ensuring professionalism and a commitment to health and safety is at the forefront of every project.

Nate Kawlewski

Vice President of Field Operations

Richard Heyer

Senior Project Manager

Mike Ruenz

Senior Project Manager

Mike Kapitan

Project Manager/ Estimator

Project Management Team

Balestrieri Environmental & Development’s project managers examine your environmental or demolition challenge as part of the entire scope of work to ensure our involvement seamless to your project schedule. We have a wide range of experience across commercial, education, healthcare, industrial, and mechanical projects.

Todd Hardesty

Kevin Leahy

Nazim Agushi

Seum Ladarom

Jose Baltierrez

Hector Jaramillo

Rafael Villegas

Ty Garlock

Ryan Landreman

Field Management Team

Environmental, demolition, and specialty projects require a choreographed team to make a project run smoothly. Differing from most other trades, some of our projects require teams of twenty or more field technicians working in conjunction with one another in enclosed spaces or high above the ground. This is only possible with strong, trusted leadership and coordination from our field management team to get the job done safely and on time.

Sarah Pavlik

Beckett Runge

Evelyn Cordova

Administrative Team

Our administration team keeps everything in our office running smoothly, from answering calls from new or existing clients, to sending out final paperwork for completed projects. This team oversees accounting, licensing, marketing and training to support our field and project management teams with meticulous detail.

Ellie Mae

Ripley Rae

Mascots

Ellie and Ripley assist with Balestrieri’s parcel inspections and wellness initiatives. Each delivery is carefully evaluated to determine whether it is a Barkbox or chew toy. Both mascots also promote regular walks through the office to get treats, pets, or play a quick game of fetch.

Kenneth R. Balestrieri

President

As President of Balestrieri Environmental & Development, Inc., Ken is responsible for the day-to-day operations of our firm. Ken has been in the environmental industry since 1986, and has seen the issues involving this industry change significantly. Realizing the growing need for quality environmental contractors led to the founding of Balestrieri Environmental & Development, Inc. in 1992.

Mr. Balestrieri holds certification as an Asbestos Inspector, Asbestos Project Designer, Asbestos Supervisor, and Lead Supervisor in the State of Wisconsin; and Asbestos Professional in the State of Illinois. Ken is also a Supervisor/Contractor and Asbestos Inspector with the State of Michigan and an Asbestos Supervisor in Minnesota and North Dakota.

Mr. Balestrieri graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point in May of 1985 with a Bachelor of Science degree from the College of Natural Resources, majoring in Soil Science and Chemistry. Since graduating, Ken has continued an ongoing relationship between Balestrieri Environmental and UW-Stevens Point.

Ken serves on the UW-Stevens Point College of Natural Resources (CNR) Advisory Board. As a CNR Alumnus, Ken is passionate about his role on the board. He enjoys sharing his wide range of knowledge and experience to help the College reach its highest potential.

Ken’s professional goals include networking to build a strong team at Balestrieri that works in harmony with clients, subcontractors, vendors, and the environment.

Ken’s personal goal is to raise a fun-loving, goal-oriented family. Ken enjoys taking his children, Alex and Jess, as well as clients and vendors, on interesting hunting and skiing trips throughout North America.

“Patience is also a form of action.” – Auguste Rodin

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As Vice President, Cindy oversees all administrative departments, including accounting, marketing operations, safety and compliance, and human resources. With an unrelenting focus on customer service, quality, and results, she has played a major role in the 30 years of their successful company history. As she put it, “My goal is to be ‘the icing on the cake’ – always building on our legacy of successful projects and industry-leading practices.”

Mrs. Balestrieri also plays a major role in mentoring the next generation of Balestrieri team members – challenging and empowering them to set and fulfill their own goals and dreams, both in the industry and on a personal level. She oversees ongoing employee training and continuous improvement initiatives. Her work includes ensuring that safety programs and practices are a key priority throughout the organization.

Prior to joining Balestrieri Environmental & Development, Inc., Cindy was employed by Harnischfeger Industries (now Komatsu) working in the marketing, public relations, and employee communications departments. Mrs. Balestrieri graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point in May of 1985 with a Bachelor of Arts degree.

When she’s not leading her team members over the next hill to battle, Cindy finds time to travel, garden, and spend relaxing afternoons on the lake on the family pontoon boat. She and her husband Ken enjoy nurturing their two children, Alex and Jess, and try to spend as much time as they can together as a family.

After 30 years in the business, Mrs. Balestrieri has seen major changes in the industry, remarking that someone once told her, “There’s no room for tears in construction.” However, she is very pleased to see the glass ceiling in the construction industry disappearing as more and more young, confident and vibrant women enter the field.

Despite the increasing challenges in the environmental services industry, her role as Vice President of Balestrieri Environmental & Development, Inc. has been an extremely rewarding and fulfilling one, and she looks forward to what the next 30 years will bring!

“It’s never the changes we want that change everything.” – Junot Diaz

262-215-9567
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Anthony F. Balestrieri

Registered Architect and Professional Engineer, Retired

Registered Architect and Professional Engineer for Balestrieri Environmental & Development, Inc., Mr. Balestrieri is responsible for field marketing, design planning and contract negotiations. Prior to joining the company, Mr. Balestrieri was a partner at Balestrieri-Kehoe and Associates, an architectural and engineering design firm.

Mr. Balestrieri has served on the Southeastern Wisconsin Regional Planning Commission where he held the position of Chairman and Past Chairman. In addition, he holds certification as an Asbestos Design Planner and Asbestos Supervisor in the State of Wisconsin.

“I am a member of the American Institute of Architects and have overseen the completion of a multitude of projects.”

262-215-9568
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Nate Kawlewski

Vice President of Field Operations

Hello, I’m Nate and I’m responsible for large project coordination, client communications, and BE&D field support. I think the most important part of my job is in forming successful working relationships: effectively maintaining a good reputation for myself and Balestrieri. I am honored to serve as a member of the Construction Leadership Council (CLC) and the Associated General Contractors (AGC) Association for the Greater Milwaukee Area.

“I used to be a Bass Pro fisherman – then I had kids.”

262-215-9552
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Richard Heyer

Senior Project Manager

Diversity in all of the services Balestrieri provides is a key motivating component for me on the project team. No project, day, location, scope, or challenge is the same, and I find great satisfaction in helping out clients achieve their final project outcome. While diversity is a strong focus for me, I tend to specialize in healthcare projects. I understand the sensitive nature of these environments and have the experience to manage these projects within compressed schedules.

I attribute a lot of my skills as a project manager to continuous learning and networking. I am a proud member of the Associated General Contractors (AGC) of Greater Milwaukee Association, an active board member for the Wisconsin Asbestos Committee (WAC), and it’s rare for me to turn down a golf outing. The comradery within this industry is great!

Comradery is a strong part of my personal life too. My family is my number-one focal point and we do nearly everything together. My wife, son, step-daughter, and I love everything Wisconsin. Camping at the State Parks, the cheese, the sports, and the festivals. When not exploring the state with my family, you can usually find me helping out on the family farm, fishing with friends, or busy with the continuous home improvement projects a homeowner is often familiar with.

Overall, trust, quality, and family are qualities I incorporate in all aspects of my life. I am proud to point out a project Balestrieri was involved in when traveling with my family.

“As a born and raised farm boy I think I can appreciate a good dad joke or pun better than the next. This also makes me an expert on chickens and a connoisseur of fine Wisconsin cheeses.”

262-215-9556
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Mike Ruenz

Senior Project Manager

Hi, thanks for dropping into Balestrieri Environmental & Development’s website. My name is Mike Ruenz and I have been working with Balestrieri for over a decade. First starting in the field as a technician, then advancing into field management focusing on major infrastructure, power generation, industry and manufacturing, and healthcare. Additionally, I have taken on the role of our Field Safety Manager.

My personal time is spent at the roller rink, the YMCA pool, and playing guitar with my local church communities. Rescuing and training deaf Pit Bulls as service animals is where my heart is. Meet Lilly, my current dog mate and best friend. Outside of these activities I am an avid yard-scaper, tree trimmer, and all-around yard fanatic. I also enjoy aerial imagery as a personal hobby along with commercially and professionally documenting sites for safety and progress here at Balestrieri Environmental & Development, also adding to our marketing portfolio. We look forward to meeting you, our potential client, and developing a professional relationship with you that has a very personal touch.

“My deaf Pit Bull, Lilly, is an accredited service animal. Seeing her interact with disabled individuals is very rewarding.”

262-903-9854
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Mike Kapitan

Project Manager/Estimator

Hello, I’m Mike Kapitan and my goal is to provide the highest quality service in the industry. I am responsible for Construction Workforce management, maintaining quality, keeping our workforce flexible, and keeping workers happy. In the summer, you will find me boating, skiing, fishing, and spending time with family on the boundary waters in northern Minnesota.

I have completed the Association of General Contractors Supervisory Training Program, the Association of General Contractors Leadership Program, and am looking forward to my next class experience.

“I am the ultimate summer and weekend Grill Master.”

262-903-7053
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Todd Hardesty

Hi, I’m Todd and I am driven to provide every client with the skills and resources necessary to complete their unique project. I strive to exceed their expectations through taking proactive measures.

“Life is good as long as there is grass to mow.”

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Kevin Leahy

I’m Kevin and working in a rapidly growing industry, it is always intriguing to be able to continue to learn more about the environmental aspect of construction. I am driven to putting the new skills I learn to work by assisting our clients with their project’s particular needs. Outside of work, I enjoy golf, attending my kids’ activities, and spending time with friends and family.

“I enjoy a good scar face marathon.”

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Nazim Agushi

I’m Nazim and I am dedicated to being dependable and approachable by everyone so that we can all work together. I believe in building upon each other’s strengths to finish a project to the best of our abilities.

“Since I was ten, I have been playing the Albanian Sargija (pronounced Sharki), a stringed guitar-type instrument used in playing folk music.”

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Seum Ladarom

Hello, I’m Seum and I’ve been with Balestrieri since its start in 1992. Being able to witness the growth and prosperity of the company and employees has only affirmed my passion for the industry. I enjoy providing daily support for workers, helping our employees be more productive, and making sure we are working safely and efficiently.

“I’ve earned first place in several golf tournaments and show my passion through helping others do well in the sport.”

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Jose Baltierrez

Hi, I’m Jose and my top priority on every project is to make sure that I am maintaining good communication with my team as well as the client. I appreciate every opportunity to increase my role within the company.

“I enjoy kicking back after a hard days work with family and friends.”

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Hector Jaramillo

Hi, I’m Hector. Since I started working at Balestrieri, I have always been eager to learn new concepts and accept new challenges. I am dedicated to ensuring positive working relationships with the project team and clients to make sure the job is completed in a timely, safe, and efficient manner.

“Remember to always show your smile.”

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Rafael Villegas

Hello, my name is Rafael. My primary focus is to make sure the safety on all of my projects is top notch. I also appreciate any opportunity to continue my education about the industry and take on larger projects. Working in construction, it is important to be safe and prepared for anything that comes my way.

“Spending time in the outdoors with my family is my favorite pastime. “

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Ty Garlock

Hello, my name is Ty. I am a Logistics Coordinator for Team Bal! I am new to the team, but I enjoy the work very much, my goal is to just keep growing and help in every way I can. Besides work, I enjoy hunting, fishing, and all around being outdoors. I cannot wait to see what my future brings!

“When I go to sleep I count antlers not sheep.”

262-374-2112
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Ryan Landreman

Hey there. I’m Ryan, Balestrieri’s Warehouse Coordinator. I have a broad range of responsibilities from hauling and running equipment, to property services and snow removal. I’m a real jack-of-all-trades kind of guy. When I’m not in the field, you can find me exploring the state in my camper, woodworking, or spending time with my kids.

“As a family man, working for family-owned company means a lot to me.”

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Sarah Pavlik

Comptroller

I’m the Accounting and Human Resource manager here at Balestrieri Environmental & Development. I’m responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the accounting and HR departments. I assist everyone to ensure a streamlined operation and communication flow.

On the accounting side I get to help out with all the projects and work with many of the clients. I love getting to see all the different types of projects that Balestrieri can help with. On the HR side I get to work with the great team that we have here at Balestrieri. Each project that Balestrieri works on is touched by many hands all working together. I think we all communicate really well together to give the best customer service to every client. I’m also a member of WCHRA (Walworth County Human Resource Association).

When I’m not at work you can usually find me and my husband out and on the lake, or up north enjoying nature with our two Labradors. We are also looking forward to visiting our son all over the world since he recently joined the Air Force.

“Great things in business are never done by one person They’re done by a team of people.” – Steve Jobs

262-215-7229
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Beckett Runge

Operations Manager

I am the Accounting Technician and licensing Coordinator at Balestrieri. In addition to my accounting duties, I am also responsible for scheduling and renewing all employee licensing so they can go to work every day and provide for their families. Recently, I have taken on another role as Property Services Coordinator, assisting our Tenants and Property Services Manager, Todd Hardesty.

Previously working in healthcare, I had no idea what this industry really focused on, but it didn’t take long after becoming a team member. Part of working at Balestrieri is seeing the full circle. It allows us to answer the phone comfortably and talk to the clients, learn what they are inquiring about, and which Project Manager would best fit their needs. While any Project Manager can assist a client, they each focus on certain industries. Being one of the first team members that clients talk to, I try to make sure that clients don’t have to jump through many hoops to get to the right person. It gives that personal touch to the project, before the project even begins. This also allows for easy coverage if someone is out of the office and a client needs an invoice or closeout document, because each department knows each other’s job duties, maintaining the project flow.

Family is everything to me and that is something that Balestrieri values – you do not get that everywhere. It’s an honor to be able to work for a family-owned company that focuses not only on their employees, but also the families of those employed.

Outside of work, you will always find me with my husband and children. They are the fuel that keep me going (besides the coffee, of course). You can find us going for walks, four-wheeler rides, playing at the park, and spending time with family and friends.

“In my family, weekends are rare. We don’t say goodbye. We say see-ya later. We say come home safe.”

262-581-5906
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Evelyn Cordova

Accounting Technician

Since joining Team Bal in November of 2021 I have learned much about the environmental contracting industry and am enjoying my duties as their Accounting Technician. Specifically I assist with client invoicing, accounts payable, accounts receivable, vendor administration and fleet administration.

Ellie Mae

Company Mascot

Hello, everyone, I am Ellie! We all know I am one of the cutest members of Team Bal, and the fluffiest, the softest, the most playful, the most energetic… well you get the point. Anyway, I am one of the Mascots at this wonderful, loving company. Oh and I also write all the blogs so make sure you check them out, I will be bringing them to you three times a month, if not more. Have a pup-tastic day!

“I’m not spoiled I just happen to be great at training people!”

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Ripley Rae

Company Mascot

Hi everyone, my name is Ripley and I am the newest Mascot for Team Bal. As most know, my older sister Ellie is in charge of the blog posts, and although that’s cool and all, I have the amazing job of helping out with safety, because who doesn’t like to stay safe!? Balestrieri’s main concern in and out of the job sites is to keep our team happy and healthy, and I am here to promote both. Any who, thanks for listening and this doggo wishes you a wonderful day!

“”Whoever said you can’t buy happiness forgot little puppies like me!””

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We Are Here to Help

To safeguard compliance with current regulations and pending legislation, trust Balestrieri Environmental & Development, Inc., the industry leader in asbestos, lead and mold remediation, to guide you through inspections, abatement and final project documentation.

At Balestrieri our highest priority is to protect the health and safety of the building occupants. Don’t risk the health or safety standards of you or your building occupants.

Get to know the Balestrieri Team

Kenneth R. Balestrieri

Cynthia k. balestrieri

Anthony F. Balestrieri

Executive Staff

Nate Kawlewski

Richard Heyer

Mike Ruenz

Mike Kapitan

Project Management Team

Todd Hardesty

Kevin Leahy

Nazim Agushi

Seum Ladarom

Jose Baltierrez

Hector Jaramillo

Rafael Villegas

Ty Garlock

Ryan Landreman

Field Management Team

Sarah Pavlik

Beckett Runge

Evelyn Cordova

Administrative Team

Ellie Mae

Ripley Rae

Mascots

Kenneth R. Balestrieri

President

Cynthia K. Balestrieri

Vice President

Anthony F. Balestrieri

Registered Architect and Professional Engineer, Retired

Nate Kawlewski

Vice President of Field Operations

Richard Heyer

Senior Project Manager

Mike Ruenz

Senior Project Manager

Mike Kapitan

Project Manager/Estimator

Todd Hardesty

Kevin Leahy

Nazim Agushi

Seum Ladarom

Jose Baltierrez

Hector Jaramillo

Rafael Villegas

Ty Garlock

Ryan Landreman

Sarah Pavlik

Comptroller

Beckett Runge

Operations Manager

Evelyn Cordova

Accounting Technician

Ellie Mae

Company Mascot

Ripley Rae

Company Mascot

We Are Here to Help

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