Esfeller Construction grew from humble beginnings into a major dirt supplier for road construction and industrial projects throughout the Gulf Coast region.
During the late 1970s, Michael W. Esfeller began establishing the foundation of the business while he was still in high school. On weeknights and weekends, he constructed driveways, house pads and septic tank systems, as well as cleared land. He continued these types of projects while working toward a business management degree at Faulkner State. After graduation, he worked offshore on drilling rigs for Rowan Drilling Company Inc., but still managed construction jobs while onshore.
Michael married Patricia Williams in the winter of 1978, and in 1979, Esfeller Construction Company was formed as a sole proprietorship. Alongside earning a business management degree from the University of South Alabama, Patricia maintained an active role in the new company.
After Hurricane Frederic, a major hurricane that caused extensive damage along the Gulf Coast, Esfeller Construction hired three employees to perform storm recovery work and general site preparation.
Soon, Esfeller Construction’s services were retained by many individuals, general contractors and businesses. The reputation for great pricing, work quality and efficient project completion helped the Esfellers expand their construction business.
During the 1980s, Esfeller Construction Company was subcontracted by Foster Wheeler to finish the Mobil Mary Ann Plant in Coden, AL. Esfeller was also hired to help construct pipelines and shallow gas well locations in Mobile and Baldwin counties. Roustabouts, welders, pipe fitters and maintenance workers were supplied to onshore and offshore oil field locations.
To meet the growing demand for industrial fabrication and maintenance in the area, the company was divided to form Esfeller Construction Company, Inc., and Esfeller Oil Field. Patricia W. Esfeller is 100% owner and president of Esfeller Construction Company, Inc., and vice president of Esfeller Oil Field. Michael Esfeller is 100% owner and president of Esfeller Oil Field and also serves as Esfeller Construction’s vice president.
Both companies experience growth as the oil industry expanded in the surrounding areas, and Esfeller Construction has benefitted from exponential growth in south Alabama and south Mississippi.