At Newman Construction, some traditions are about more than getting together. They're about taking care of our own.

This August, employees, families, friends and members of the community gathered at Horse Valley Ranch in Lyman, Utah, for Newman's annual Fat Spud—a weekend of UTV riding, cornhole, live music, camping and plenty of mud. This year's event, however, carried a special purpose: honoring the memory of longtime Newman employee Aaron Wood and raising funds for an academic scholarship established in his name.

Aaron spent 26 years with Newman Construction, serving as a superintendent and becoming an important part of both the company and the crews he worked alongside. He was known for his expertise—particularly finish grading—his love for the people he worked with, and a work ethic summed up perfectly by one of his favorite sayings:

"The job isn't going to do itself."

Aaron passed away from cancer earlier this year, leaving behind a legacy that extends well beyond the projects he helped build.

Turning a Newman Tradition Into Something More

On Saturday, August 8, approximately 200 people gathered for a benefit shooting competition at the ranch, with proceeds supporting the Aaron Wood Academic Scholarship.

What began as part of an annual Newman tradition became an opportunity for employees, friends, family and the surrounding community to rally around Aaron's memory.

Through entry fees, donations and the generosity of those who participated, the event ultimately raised $24,000 for the scholarship fund.

It was exactly the kind of day Aaron would have appreciated: good people, a little dirt, some friendly competition and plenty of time spent together.

More Than a Crew

Newman Construction has been a family-owned company for more than 90 years, but being family-owned isn't what creates a family culture. People do.

Aaron was one of those people.

We're incredibly grateful to everyone who came to Horse Valley Ranch, donated, participated and helped turn a difficult loss into something that can create opportunities for others for years to come.

That's a legacy worth building.

To read more about Aaron, the event and the community that came together in his memory, read The Insider's coverage of the benefit shootout.

‍Read the full story in The Insider