After working for almost two years out of Queen Creek, Cherie Koester, principal of Earthworks Environmental, moved her staff into offices in the highly- sought-after Gilbert Heritage District.
“We grew out of our current space,” says Koester, who holds a Master’s of Science in International Environmental Technology Management and Sustainability from Arizona State University. “It’s nice to have an actual ‘home’ office, although most of my employees will spend the majority of their time out in the field.”
Koester, 37, founded the company in September 2014. Earthworks’ services include storm water pollution prevention, dust control and construction safety compliances. The firm primarily serves land developers, vertical developers, commercial construction, and land holding companies.
Prior to founding Earthworks, located at 350 N. Gilbert Rd., Koester developed and led the environmental compliance and safety division for a local landscape company. She was previously a universal inspector in the compliance division for the Maricopa County Air Quality Department.
Koester leads a staff of eight employees that includes compliance managers and environmental technicians. Some of Earthworks’ clients include Taylor Morrison, D.R. Horton, CalAtlantic Homes, KB Home, Richmond American, Woodside Homes, and Mattamy Homes.
“This marks the first time we will have a full staff out in the field,” Koester said. “Although I like being out there (at sites) as well, this will give me the time to help grow the business and become more involved with industry groups.”
Koester added that Earthworks has clients in Arizona from Flagstaff to Southern Arizona with plans for future expansion.
