Three honored with Spirit of Garver award

The Spirit of Garver Award, presented annually, recognizes employees who exemplify exceptional passion for their profession and unwavering commitment to Garver’s values and standards. It is the highest individual honor a Garver employee can receive and is awarded at Summit, an annual event bringing all employees together.

At Summit 2026 in Arlington, Texas, a committee of company leaders named Aviation Project Manager Jim Tierney, P.E., Transportation Project Engineer Michelle Breithaupt, P.E., and GarverGives Program Leader Kate Cox as this year’s recipients. Each winner received a $3,500 travel voucher, company-wide recognition, and the privilege of wearing the signature Spirit of Garver Award blazer.

Tierney, based in Frisco, Texas, is a dependable leader on Garver’s Aviation Team. Known for his technical accuracy, responsiveness, and integrity, Tierney goes above and beyond to deliver quality solutions for airports across North Texas and steps in without hesitation on demanding jobs. He also organizes an annual golf tournament for Garver’s DFW area employees and serves as head coach for the office’s softball team. 

As a Project Engineer on Garver’s Transportation Team, Breithaupt delivers bridge and roadway designs for DOTs and municipalities throughout the region, and she currently serves as Communication Chair for WTS Mississippi and served as Younger Member Chair of ASCE Mississippi. Outside of her engineering prowess, Breithaupt drives engagement at Garver’s Ridgeland, Mississippi, through an emphasis on community involvement and office events. 

Based in Garver’s downtown Little Rock office, Cox plays a vital role in coordinating company-wide communications and events across the nation, as well as leading GarverGives, the firm’s corporate giving platform. Cox’s creativity and responsiveness, matched with the care and professionalism she brings each task, create meaningful difference for Garver and the communities it serves.  

The three were selected from a group of 12 finalists, chosen from a collection of nominations made by their colleagues. Congratulations to all of Garver’s winners, finalists, and nominees.

To learn how you can join Garver’s award-winning team, visit the Careers page.