61Thomas D. Hill has played an instrumental role in the success and expansion of ESI Construction, a leading general contracting and construction management firm based in Meridian, Idaho. Founded over 50 years ago, ESI Construction has grown significantly under Hill’s leadership, establishing a strong presence across 41 states and 36 countries. The company provides various construction services, including retail, education, healthcare, commercial offices, public works, industrial facilities, and hospitality projects.
Tom Hill, CEO's, journey into the construction industry began after spending several years working in the banking sector in Dallas, Texas, from 1985 to 1992. In 1992, he boldly decided to acquire ESI, a dormant company and breathed new life into it with a small team of four employees. Over the next three decades, Hill transformed ESI Construction into a thriving enterprise with more than 1,100 employees. The company has also committed to providing its employees with fully employer-paid medical and dental insurance, ensuring the well-being of its workforce.
Under Thomas D. Hill’s guidance, ESI Construction has built a solid reputation for delivering quality work, maintaining high safety standards, and offering exceptional service. The company's dedication to fulfilling its promises, providing integrity in every project, and prioritizing safety has earned it the trust of numerous clients. Over the years, ESI Construction has built lasting relationships with over 450 clients, including some of the most recognized names in business, such as Albertsons, AutoZone, Best Buy, Chick-fil-A, Costco, Homewood Suites, JC Penney, Kohl’s, Krispy Kreme, Kroger, Old Navy, Payless Shoe Source, PetSmart, Popeyes, Ross, Starbucks, Walgreens, Walmart, and Whole Foods.
Hill’s leadership and dedication to growing ESI Construction were recognized with the 40 Under 40 award, an acknowledgment of his achievements as an entrepreneur. Safety has always been a central focus during Hill’s tenure as CEO. ESI Construction has completed over 79.5 million square feet of retail projects, and the company’s commitment to maintaining a safe work environment is reflected in its Experience Modification Rate of 0.43. This safety record has helped the company ensure the protection of both its employees and clients.
ESI Construction offers extensive services, including construction management, general contracting, design-build, self-performance, and special projects. The company’s construction management approach emphasizes transparency, informing clients about project budgets, quality, and schedules. General contracting services at ESI Construction rely on proven project management processes, leveraging the latest construction technology to execute designs efficiently and effectively. The company simplifies the construction process through its design-build services, reducing the number of vendors involved and streamlining project timelines.
In addition to these services, Tom Hill, ESI Construction, led the growth of ESI Construction’s self-perform field trade work, which includes specialties such as concrete paving, structural concrete, earthwork, flatwork, rough carpentry, fixturing, and specialty electrical work. The Special Projects Division focuses on smaller-scale construction projects, tenant improvements, and remodels, while the Express Division tackles urgent service needs. This division is available around the clock to handle everything from routine repairs to large structural remodels.
Outside of his professional work, Thomas D. Hill is deeply committed to giving back to the community. In 2018, he founded ESI Cares, a nonprofit organization supporting local community initiatives. One of the primary programs is a metal recycling initiative that generates funds for ESI Cares and community projects. Hill is personally involved in numerous charitable efforts, including donating a car to Notus High School’s Driver’s Ed program, sponsoring field trips for elementary school students, and providing scholarships for private school students. He and his wife, Kimbra, have also significantly contributed to local organizations such as the Caldwell Police Department’s mounted unit and the Caldwell Fair 4-H Sale.
Hill’s philanthropic efforts also extend to education. He has been a donor to the Victory Center for Autism since 2008, and he has sponsored several students attending Boise State University by covering their tuition fees. His generosity has positively impacted the lives of many students and families in his community.
Born in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Thomas D. Hill graduated with honors from Baylor University in 1985 with a BBA in Finance. After completing his education, Hill moved to Idaho, where he assumed the CEO role at ESI Construction. He and his wife, Kimbra, now live in Eagle, Idaho, with their two children, Piper and Teddy. Outside of his professional and philanthropic endeavors, Hill enjoys spending time outdoors with his family, traveling, flying, and hiking.
Thomas D. Hill’s leadership has been instrumental in shaping ESI Construction into one of the industry's most successful and respected construction firms. His commitment to quality, safety, and client satisfaction has helped the company grow exponentially, while his dedication to giving back to the community has made a lasting impact. Hill’s story is one of hard work, determination, and a strong desire to help others, and his leadership continues to influence the future of ESI Construction and the communities it serves. Thomas D. Hill’s contributions will undoubtedly be felt for many years.