2025 marked a remarkable milestone for Barbara Angell. She began her career with Sanford Contractors in April of 1985, and over the past forty years she has been part of nearly every chapter of the company’s story. Her leadership, commitment to our people, and steady guidance through periods of growth and change have made her an essential part of who we are today.

Barbara’s start at Sanford Contractors came through an unexpected opportunity. Then called Sanford Grading, the company reached out to Central Carolina Community College (CCCC) seeking candidates for an office position, and her advisor encouraged her to apply. She joined the company as a young professional with limited experience, stepping into a team of roughly thirty-five people. She was given the chance to grow along with the role, and that trust set the foundation for the long and meaningful career she has built here.

Over the decades that followed, Barbara became a constant presence through the company’s growth, challenges, and defining moments. Today, Sanford Contractors has more than 270 team members and an annual volume nearly 3,000 percent higher than when she first started. Through each phase of growth, Barbara has played a central role in supporting the company’s financial stability and long-term planning as she advanced through the ranks, becoming Chief Financial Officer over fifteen years ago.  

When asked what has kept her here throughout her career, Barbara points to the people. “The people I work with and work for are a huge reason I’ve been here for so long. I credit Donnie’s support and leadership as a major influence on my career.”

She also finds great satisfaction in watching the company grow and evolve. “I like being part of something bigger and knowing I played a small part in the company’s success.” She continues to take pride in seeing the projects Sanford Contractors builds across the state.

Many moments stand out as defining points in her career, including the acquisition of Sanford Construction Company (SCC), which became the foundation of the Bridge Division. It was the company’s first acquisition and a major learning experience. Barbara also recalls the challenges the company navigated during multiple economic recessions and in 2020. “It was very important that we kept our people on and in their roles during those times. That has always mattered.” Her steady leadership helped anchor the company through each transition, and successfully navigating downturns without impacting team members remains one of the highlights of her career.

While the company has grown, Barbara notes that Sanford Contractors has always stayed true to its core values. Yet she has also seen the culture deepen in meaningful ways.

“Over the last 10 to 15 years especially, Sanford Contractors has been able to become even more community-oriented. I take a lot of pride in being part of a company that is a great employer, a community partner, and that truly cares about helping others in need.”

She points to initiatives such as the CCCC endowment partnership, the Mark Oldham Scholarship through Chatham County Schools, annual Back-to-School Supplies Night, partnerships with organizations like CUOC and Samaritan’s Purse, the company’s charitable donation fund, disaster relief efforts, and the donation matching program as examples of that commitment.

What she values most, however, is the genuine care leadership has for the long-term well-being of team members. “Donnie and Richard want our people to be able to retire financially healthy. They really care about people once they leave here, and they want to make sure they’re taken care of.”

For those just starting their careers at Sanford Contractors, she offers thoughtful advice shaped by four decades of experience: “If you want to be part of a company that treats you like family, remember that families don’t always get along, but at the end of the day they support each other. Everyone goes through seasons where they question whether they’re doing what they’re meant to be doing. Don’t make rash decisions. Talk it out and give it time.”

She believes that building a successful long-term career here comes down to a few essentials: treating others with respect, respecting yourself, and enjoying the work you do.

Barbara’s story is one of growth, loyalty, resilience, and service. Her leadership has strengthened Sanford Contractors through four decades of change, and her impact is woven into the company’s history. It continues to guide the organization today and will remain part of its foundation for years to come. We are grateful for all she has given to Sanford Contractors and for the example she continues to set each day.