Behind the Build: Cody on Leading with Experience at MoDOT Route D
For our latest Behind the Build feature, we sat down with Superintendent Cody Beck, who is currently managing one of Kozeny-Wagner’s most unique bridge projects. His journey into construction, approach to leadership, and commitment to safety reflect the values that define our culture.
A Unique Challenge: Building with Stainless Steel
Right now, Cody is leading the MoDOT Route D project at Page and Lindbergh. What makes this project stand out is its design—a complete stainless rebar bridge from the shafts to the deck steel. Few projects take on this type of work, making it both challenging and exciting to deliver.
As superintendent, Cody’s role goes beyond scheduling and planning. He’s responsible for making real-time decisions, keeping morale high, and ensuring that every task is completed safely and efficiently.
A Career Built on Craft
Cody’s path into construction started in high school, working weekends and evenings for a friend’s father who owned a carpentry business. The work stuck with him, and years later, he joined Kozeny-Wagner after hearing from others in the field that it was a strong, family-oriented company.
“Joining Kozeny-Wagner has been one of the best decisions of my career,” Cody shared.
Over the years, he’s worked on projects both memorable and challenging. Installing a fire suppression system in the historic MetroLink tunnels was one of the most unique experiences. On the other hand, removing the Acrow temporary bridge across the Union Pacific Railway stands out as one of the toughest projects he’s faced.
Leading with Respect
When it comes to managing his team, Cody’s philosophy is simple: listen, respect, and stay humble.
“I always tell my guys you are how these jobs get completed. Respect goes a long way,” he said.
Whether it’s treating his crew to breakfast or lunch a couple of times a month, or encouraging open conversations about ideas, Cody believes small gestures create big motivation. With subcontractors, he focuses on understanding personalities and adapting his communication style to keep everyone aligned on goals and quality.
Safety at the Core
For Cody, safety is a daily priority. Morning safety meetings set the tone for each shift, and quick check-ins throughout the day reinforce that well-being always comes first.
“Cody is one of those superintendents who never loses sight of safety while still keeping the job moving,” shared Debbie Jacobs, Director of Safety. “He sets the tone every morning with his crews, and it makes a real difference.”
Why Kozeny-Wagner?
When asked what sets Kozeny-Wagner apart, Cody didn’t hesitate:
“It’s the owners. I feel like I can walk right into their offices and have a conversation, just like anyone else. The family-oriented culture runs through the whole company—from project managers to payroll. They take care of you, and that matters.”
Andy Tayon, General Superintendent agreed: “Cody is an incredible asset to our team. He brings the right mix of experience, leadership, and humility to every project. You know the job is in good hands when Cody is leading it.”
Passion for People
More than anything, what keeps Cody passionate about his role is watching others grow. Seeing apprentices develop into skilled journeymen has been one of the most rewarding parts of his career.
“Being able to watch people evolve, and knowing I’ve played a part in their growth, is exciting to me.”
His advice to those just starting in construction? Stay open to learning, stay humble, and find joy in the progress you help create—not just in the project itself, but in the people you work with.
This project may be defined by stainless steel, but it’s built on something stronger: the experience, leadership, and dedication of people like Cody.
  