GRAND RAPIDS, MI — Wolverine Building Group, a construction firm headquartered in Grand Rapids, Michigan, announces that Derek Hunderman will be the new Chief Operations Officer of the 84-year-old company. The company also recently hired former Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration (MIOHSA) leader, Mike Walters, as Safety Director.Hunderman has nearly 20 years of experience in commercial construction and real estate. He has generated strategy, developed systems, and improved metrics for several of Michigan’s industry leaders. He is a graduate of Calvin University.

“I am thrilled to add Derek’s enthusiasm and expertise to our executive team,” said Curt Mulder, President and Owner of Wolverine Building Group. “We sought his skills and personal attributes to guide Wolverine through our accelerating growth. Our team of over 180 team members in three offices across Michigan will benefit from the application of his strategic insight.”

Wolverine has experienced continued growth under the leadership and ownership of Mulder. Adding a COO to the executive team is the planned next step to support the expansion of services.

“Wolverine is the right fit for my talent and passion. I am eager to apply my experience with the wealth of talent they currently employ,” Hunderman said.  “This company historically has engaged the highest levels of ingenuity to accomplish incredible projects. It’s exciting to lead the next generation’s timeline.”

Hunderman has devoted his career to propelling organizations to advanced stages of growth. “This company is known for its superior capabilities, strong relationships, and commitment to craft," he said. "I anticipate leveraging Wolverine’s status as master builders to advance our next phase of construction leadership."

“Having Mike leading our safety initiatives is an incredible addition to our strong safety culture,” Mulder said. "His passion for education, ability to articulate practical policy, and decades of experience in construction made him a natural fit for Wolverine.”

Walters began his career in construction as a Journeyman Electrician in the southwest region of Michigan. As his career grew, he found his inclination toward safety and safety education pulled him toward joining MIOSHA. He spent over a decade in regulation, then began work in safety education and training.

“I was attracted to the company because of the value the leadership team placed on safety and their interest in my particular dedication to training and education,” Walters said.

Wolverine makes safety a priority for employees and continually involves the team members in strategy to increase safety on jobsites. Integration and engagement focused Walter’s decision to join the team. “When we are able to help workers invest in their safety, that is a game-changer," he said. "Wolverine’s approach is why I wanted to work for this organization. It’s a dream come true."