Located 2,500 miles west of the International Date Line, Guam is a day ahead of the United States. A U.S. Territory since 1898, Guam’s unofficial but frequently used territorial motto is “Where America’s Day Begins.”
Guam is a melting pot with its unique history and culture. Guam’s population is 37% native Chamorro, 26% Filipino and 33% other Asian and Pacific Islanders. While English and Chamorro are the official languages of Guam, it is common to hear many other languages, such as Japanese and Korean, as well as dialects from Filipino and other Micronesian islands. Hensel Phelps accommodates these diverse languages on our jobsites, with safety posters and toolbox talks presented in English and Tagalog, a Filipino dialect. These language translations are unique to Hensel Phelps.
The best way to meet the local people and experience the local culture and food is at the fiestas, a tradition of celebration introduced by the Spanish in the 1600s. Fiestas are not complete without indulging in culinary treats like red rice, breadfruit, taro, barbecued ribs and chicken, pot roast, roast pig, lumpia, pancit, shrimp patties and chicken kelaguen, a shredded barbecued chicken dish mixed with grated coconut, lemon juice, onion and hot pepper. Hensel Phelps frequently serves these multicultural culinary treats at our safety barbeques, celebrating local traditions and the value of community at our Guam projects.
The island’s diverse population is evident in the mixture of cultures within our Guam projects. J-011 Base Administrative Building Project Manager Eric Propst said, “Building in Guam has been an unforgettable experience! With over a dozen countries and cultures represented at our jobsite, the team is a unique blend of talent from around the world, united by their passion for construction. Each has brought their unique perspective, experience, style and voice to the project.”
The camaraderie and cohesiveness of the team puts Hensel Phelps in an excellent position to chase future work on Camp Blaz and in the Pacific. The $62.8 million J-011 Base Administrative Building project was the first building completed at Marine Corps Base (MCB) Camp Blaz, the first newly constructed U.S. Marine Corps base since 1952.
At any given time on a jobsite, you could find representation from 15 distinct cultures among our trade partners and the 175+ Hensel Phelps employees in Guam. There is a rich diversity of heritage and nationalities, including Japan, China, Korea, Guam, the Philippines, Yap, Chuuk, Kosrae, Pohnpei, Saipan, Palau, Hawaii, the U.S. Mainland, Europe, Mexico, India and Australia.
With seven Hensel Phelps projects currently in progress on Guam, the project teams have the unique opportunity to coordinate and share resources on the small island. Working together to overcome challenges and celebrate victories is an intrinsic piece of the Chamorro and Filipino cultures and aligns with the Hensel Phelps core values of community and diversity.
Meet Members of our Guam Team
Edwin De Chavez
Quality Control Manager, Republic of the Philippines
“Growing up in the Philippines, I learned to work hard and care for my family. I’ve worked in Algeria, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Abu Dhabi and Vietnam, but I’m grateful to be here now in Guam with my wife. I try to help those here on H2B work visas from the Philippines make the most of being away from home—I know we are all working to take care of our families.”
Jonathan Hsu
Crane Operator, Guam
“Growing up in the Philippines, I learned to work hard and care for my family. I’ve worked in Algeria, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Abu Dhabi and Vietnam, but I’m grateful to be here now in Guam with my wife. I try to help those here on H2B work visas from the Philippines make the most of being away from home—I know we are all working to take care of our families.”
Everly Ngirarikel
Carpenter, Republic of Palau
“The nation of Palau, an island country, has 340 islands and is divided into 16 states located in the Western Pacific. The best part about Palau is the variety of food we get from the sea and land. The way we live, strive to survive and protect our people makes me proud of my heritage.”
Candice Monillas
Jobsite Administrator, Republic of the Philippines
“In the Philippines, we are taught to stay diligent and hardworking in order to succeed. I carried those traits with me into this company to contribute to its success.”
Ysu Mendiola
Office Engineer, Guam
“I’m proud to have been raised and educated in Guam. My dad is from Rota, and my mom is from Michigan. The best part of growing up here is the diversity–this is the most diverse place in the U.S. You can see through the lens of other cultures, which gives you patience and understanding.”
Michael Balatbat
Carpenter, Republic of the Philippines
“The Filipino people value friendship and trust. On the job, we work hard and watch out for each other. “
Jerry Siguenza
Carpenter, Guam
“Guam is a beautiful island with amazing beaches, fishing and hunting. You are always welcome to the fiesta here. Biba Guam!”
Kini English
Senior Safety Manager, Guam
“The Chamorro people are full of heart and courage. We have endured many trials and tribulations on this small island but always look after each other. It drives me to keep others safe and care about everyone on the jobsite.”
Kameron Aiwohi
Carpenter Foreman, Hawaii
“Although communicating in many different languages can be a challenge, working with the different cultures in Guam is fulfilling because everyone has a great attitude. For me, it’s the spirit of aloha—everyone is willing to come together and help each other communicate, understand and get the job done safely.”