The Oldtimer’s Club
One of the longest-standing and most cherished traditions at Hensel Phelps is the Oldtimer’s Club (OTC). Established in 1958 by Hensel Phelps founder Joseph Phelps, the club was created to honor and acknowledge the craftspeople who demonstrated loyalty and commitment to the company. What began as a humble gathering has evolved into a tradition that highlights the values of dedication, growth and community at Hensel Phelps.
The Origins
The Oldtimer’s Club began with a simple yet meaningful idea: to honor those who chose to stay with the company for the long haul. Joseph Phelps initiated this tradition by organizing Saturday morning breakfast meetings at the Longs Peak Café in Greeley, Colorado. These gatherings provided an opportunity for craftspeople to discuss company business, plan the upcoming week’s work and share training strategies. As the company grew, so did the number of attendees. To further celebrate this group, Joseph Phelps introduced the iconic gold hardhat – a symbol of pride, accomplishment and membership in the Oldtimer’s Club.
The Oldtimer’s Club Today
The Oldtimer’s Club continues to shape the foundations of Hensel Phelps’ identity, with over 2,000 members and counting. Employees qualify as Oldtimers after reaching their five-year milestone with the company. This achievement is celebrated annually at an awards banquet where employees are awarded the gold helmet, a significant symbol of their dedication and contributions.
The gold helmet is more than just a token of service; it is a personalized tribute. Once an employee reaches their five-year mark, their manager decorates the helmet to reflect their personality, hobbies and defining qualities. Whether it is a nod to a favorite sports team, a hobby they love or a unique character trait, each helmet is a custom creation that tells the story of that Oldtimer. These decorated helmets are then proudly displayed and presented during the awards banquet, adding a thoughtful and celebratory touch to the occasion.
The first Oldtimers award banquet was held on November 29, 1963, at the Greeley Country Club, with just 17 Oldtimers in attendance. Over the decades, this event has grown exponentially, bringing together thousands of employees from across the company. The banquet is more than just an awards ceremony; it is a celebration of milestones, achievements and the Hensel Phelps community.
To all the Oldtimers past, present and future, thank you for your dedication and for making Hensel Phelps more than just a workplace but a true community.
