Reaching a 50-year milestone at any organization is a rare and remarkable achievement, but for Eric Leman, it has been a journey filled with passion, growth, and a deep commitment to both his work and the people around him. A humble and respected figure at HEAPY, Eric continues to bring enthusiasm to the office every day, now on a part-time basis, focusing on the aspects of engineering he enjoys most.
Meaningful Work and Enduring Relationships
Throughout his career, Eric has placed immense value on relationships. Whether it’s with colleagues or clients, his intentional face-to-face communication has fostered trust and collaboration. He has witnessed multiple generations within the industry, seeing fathers teach their sons and daughters, forming connections that last decades. His loyalty and respect, core to who he is, have played a significant role in his success.
A natural problem-solver with a strong technical aptitude, Eric enjoys creating detailed plans and visualizing designs in three dimensions. His ability to see projects holistically has helped him navigate complex challenges with precision—an approach that has benefited both HEAPY and the many clients who rely on his expertise.
A Career-Defining Moment
Reflecting on his career, one project stands out as a turning point in his career was the Mercy Health-West Hospital project where Eric was entrusted with a critical leadership role following the retirement of a colleague. The project was a massive undertaking, filled with high-stakes decisions and demanding deadlines. Although the project presented significant challenges, he persevered and proved his ability to successfully manage large-scale projects and multiple deliverables with confidence. That experience shaped the leader he became, reinforcing his ability to direct entire designs and guide teams to successful outcomes.
The Legacy of His Work
One of the most rewarding aspects of Eric’s career has been seeing the tangible results of his efforts. No matter where he goes in Columbus, he sees buildings that he played a role in shaping—a lasting testament to his impact. Beyond the structures themselves, he finds fulfillment in the relationships he has built and the knowledge he has shared with colleagues and clients.
Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing
Fostering a collaborative environment has always been a priority for Eric. He believes in open communication and offers assistance whenever he has insights to share. Being physically present in the office, engaging with colleagues and clients, and continuously contributing to HEAPY’s success has kept him energized over the years. Even today, his commitment to mentorship and teamwork remains strong.
Jeremy Williams, the Plumbing Technical Leader, notes, “Eric’s expertise has shaped major projects, and his commitment to knowledge-sharing strengthens the team. Now, he plays a key role in ensuring drawing quality, reviewing designs to enhance accuracy and clarity before construction.”
A Lasting Influence
Eric’s journey at HEAPY is one of dedication, resilience, and passion. His ability to adapt, lead, and consistently deliver excellence has left an indelible mark on the company and the industry. As he celebrates 50 years, his story serves as an inspiration—not just for the milestones he has reached, but for the relationships he has built, the knowledge he has shared, and the legacy he continues to shape.
