How the Bison Shapes Our Construction Culture at Richard

When we set out to define a symbol for Richard, we weren’t just creating a logo. We were building a standard. Something that could represent how we lead, how we build—and how we show up for each other

We chose the bison.

Not because it’s trendy or tough-looking, but because its story mirrors our own: one of resilience, responsibility, and collective strength.

Why the Bison?

“They were nearly extinct. And yet, they came back.
They survive Arctic cold, river valleys, and heat.
They turn into the storm.
That’s why it’s our spirit animal.”
— Jed Richard, CEO

 At one time, up to 60 million bison roamed North America. By the late 1800s, that number dropped to fewer than 500 due to overhunting and westward expansion. The species was nearly lost.

 But thanks to Indigenous stewardship and national conservation efforts, bison made one of the greatest comebacks in wildlife history. Today, there are over 400,000 bison in North America—living proof that resilience, when supported by the right systems and values, can thrive.

 Resilient Leadership: Facing the Storm

The bison is built for extremes. It’s the only large mammal native to North America meant to roam, graze, and survive here. When a storm rolls in across the plains, most animals run. The bison turns toward the storm and walks through it.

At Richard, that’s how we lead.

Whether it’s a challenging build, a complex federal project, or a high-stakes renovation, we don’t back down. We face the work with calm, clarity, and purpose—because great construction doesn’t avoid difficulty. It pushes through it.

Stewardship: Building With Respect

For centuries, the bison has held sacred meaning for many Indigenous peoples. It was more than a resource—it was a provider, a symbol of abundance and balance. Every part of the bison was used. Nothing was wasted.

That mindset guides the way we build:

• We honor the land we work on.

• We respect the communities we serve.

• We understand that our projects outlive the jobsite.

Whether we’re working in healthcare, military, or civic infrastructure, we’re building futures—not just facilities.

The Strength of the Herd

Bison move together in herds—protecting each other, reading the weather, and navigating terrain as one. They never get too far ahead, and no one is left behind.

That’s exactly how we move at Richard.

We believe in team strength over ego, and in the power of field and office working as one. Our culture isn’t just built by leadership—it’s built by craftworkers, superintendents, apprentices, engineers, and every teammate who shows up with care and purpose.

What the Bison Means for Richard

So no, the bison isn’t just a logo on our hard hats or badges.

It’s a mindset. A reminder. And a challenge.

To be strong, but grounded.
To face storms, not avoid them.
To build with purpose—and to move together.
To lead with humility, and lead with grit.

That’s the Richard standard.

That’s what it means to be a bison.

Sound like something you want to be part of? Join the Herd! 🦬 Explore opportunities on our Careers page.

CEO, Jed Richard in front of a Bison painting at the HQ office in Chicago, IL.