Last month, we shared the story of the Buys family. This month, we’re introducing another family whose O&G history has been intertwined with theirs for decades.
Fred Howe, Site Superintendent (Heavy Civil), has spent 32 years with O&G. Today, he works alongside his son, Spencer, an Operator with five years at the company. Together, they’re continuing a story built on two families, one crew, and generations of trust.
That story began when Bill Buys Sr. recommended Fred to Leo Nardi, who hired him as a foreman. Over the years, the connection between the two families continued to grow. Bill “Junior” Buys built his own career at O&G, followed by Billy Buys III. Two years after Billy joined the company, Spencer Howe came aboard, adding another generation to a relationship that now spans decades.
Before joining O&G, Spencer worked at a quarry but wanted the opportunity to operate a wider variety of equipment and work on major construction projects. He joined O&G as an apprentice, completing most of his apprenticeship here. The Howe father-son duo first worked together on the emergency railroad repair in East Windsor before reuniting on the I-84 West Hartford project. Today, they’re together again on the I-691 / I-91 / Route 15 Meriden project, where Billy Buys III also operates a crane – three relatives helping move one of Connecticut’s largest transportation projects forward.
For Spencer, working alongside his dad is one of the most meaningful parts of his career. Fred has always struck the balance between offering guidance and giving his son the space to grow. That mutual respect defines not only their relationship, but the way they approach their work every day.
Looking ahead, Fred is excited to watch Spencer continue building his own career at O&G. Spencer hopes to do just that, adding decades of his own to the family’s history with the company.
“I feel very fortunate to work with my son, Spencer, and my nephew, Billy,” Fred says. “I’ve watched them both become exceptional at their craft, a true value to the future of O&G.”
Outside of work, you’ll often find the Howes cheering on the Patriots at Gillette Stadium. These days, though, their favorite role is a new one: Spencer and his wife welcomed their first child in 2025, making Fred a first-time grandfather. It’s the newest chapter in a family story that continues to grow, both at O&G and at home.
