Joe Kandefer – Founder
Joe Kandefer founded Kandey Company, Inc. in 1984 with a vision to deliver high quality civil construction and utility work across Western New York. Until his passing in 2023, Joe remained actively involved in every aspect of his business, leaving behind a legacy of excellence, leadership and family values that continue to guide Kandey Company today.
Marie Kandefer – President
MKandefer@Kandeycompany.comAs President, Marie oversees business aspects of Kandey Company. Her background helps to provide the company with a sound operating structure in areas of accounting, financial operations, insurance requirements, and health and safety regulations
Sydney Kandefer – Vice President
SKandefer@kandeycompany.comSydney graduated from St. John Fisher College in 2011 with a degree in Business Management and started working for Kandey Company in 2016. She is responsible for day-to day operations, including HR, accounting, and internal project coordination. She supports business development efforts, oversees documentation and compliance, and ensures alignment between office staff and field teams to support Kandey Company’s healthy reputation.
Joseph Blahowicz – Director of Operations
JBlahowicz@kandeycompany.comJoseph has been with Kandey Company for 17 years specializing in underground infrastructure. Joe has been instrumental in expanding the company’s maintenance services division, focusing on hydroexavating, pipeline inspections, and municipal sewer cleaning. He is also responsible for organizing and administering everyday operations and is imperative in major decisions made by the company. This involves coordinating labor across all departments, ensuring workflow and communication, and supervising project timelines to allow timely and cost-effective completion.
Jason Cowell – Financial Controller
JCowell@kandeycompany.comJason began working for Kandey Company after graduating from the University at Buffalo in 2013 with a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering. He oversees the financial health of the company by working alongside Project Managers and Executives to coordinate budgeting, cost tracking, financial reporting and ensuring compliance with accounting standards and construction industry practices.
Alex Kaempf – Project Manager
AKaempf@kandeycompany.comAlex graduated with a degree in Civil Engineering from the University at Buffalo in 2014 and immediately started working with Kandey Company. Over the years, Alex has taken on increasing responsibilities, transitioning from supporting roles to independently managing projects. Currently he is overseeing the Water Distribution System Improvements Group B, a substantial infrastructure project aimed at enhancing water distribution systems throughout the Buffalo area.
Dick Roberts – Project Manager
DRoberts@kandeycompany.comDick Roberts has over 30 years in the construction industry, and 16 with the Company. He has extensive knowledge in the management of mechanical, electrical, HVAC, and plumbing systems. Currently, he is leading the Southtowns Advanced Wastewater Treatment Facility Phase 1 Expansion project, a significant 55 million initiative aimed at enhancing wastewater treatment infrastructure in Erie County.
Richard Szucs, Jr. – Project Manager
RSzucs@kandeycompany.comRichard Szucs has over 30 years’ experience in the construction industry, and 20 years with the company. He works in all aspects of a project from field to office operations with a background in varied underground utilities, bridge culverts, earthwork, grading, paving, concrete repairs and trenchless rehabilitation. Alongside other Project Managers, Rich also uses his deep industry background to lead the preparation of detailed and competitive bid proposals
Bob Walter – Company Superintendent
BWalter@KandeyCompany.comWith nearly 20 years with the company, Bob Walter oversees daily field operations across Kandey Company’s various jobsites. Bob ensures that crews work safely, efficiently and are in alignment with project specifications and timelines. His strong leadership, deep construction knowledge and commitment to quality make him an essential part of Kandey Company’s success.
Josh Weis – JR Project Manager
A new member of Kandey Company, Inc., Josh graduated from Alfred University in 2024 with a degree in Construction Management. Josh works closely with senior project managers to assist with scheduling, documentation and field operations to ensure projects stay on track. He also brings a fresh perspective with up-and-coming construction management software and digital tools.
Denamarie Wildt – Office Manager
DWildt@KandeyCompany.comDena joined the company in 2021 where she supports daily operations through a range of administrative duties. She is responsible for mail sorting, accounts payable, organizing data and is the friendly voice answering phones. With a strong attention to detail and organization skills, Dena plays a key role in keeping the office running smoothly and efficiently.