Strong Foundations: A CEO’s Story of Concrete Work with Faith and Purpose
Adrienne Heidema
Website: consumersconcrete.com
Adrienne Heidema is the President and CEO of Consumers Concrete Corporation, a family-owned Ready Mix Concrete and Concrete Products company. Adrienne, a fourth-generation family member, returned to the business in January 2020 after a long and fruitful career in banking. She works alongside her husband Brad, the CHRO, who has served in the company for over 27 years. Adrienne finds deep joy in not only carrying on the family legacy but doing so in partnership with her husband. Together, they are the proud parents of three adult children, two daughters-in-law, and two grandchildren.
More than a CEO, Adrienne is a woman of deep faith who sees her role not just as a leader of a company — but as a steward of God’s purpose. In this 5-part reflection, we unpack the powerful testimony of Adrienne’s leadership journey, grounded in Christ and committed to serving both her team and her community.
A Legacy Built on Faith and Concrete
Adrienne’s leadership journey began long before she stepped into the CEO role. As a fourth-generation member of a company founded in 1933 during the Great Depression, Adrienne carries a legacy built not only on hard work — but on faith in Christ. Her great-grandfather, who began the business delivering sand and gravel, was a man of deep faith. That spiritual foundation shaped every generation that followed.
“We were built on faith,” Adrienne said, reflecting on how her family’s values shaped the culture of the company. Today, with 11 family members still working in the business, Adrienne leads a company where faith, legacy, and concrete go hand in hand. “I honestly believe that is what has triggered the longevity of our business.”
From Spreadsheets to the CEO Seat — Following God’s Timing
Adrienne didn’t always plan to return to the family business. With over 20 years in the banking industry and a background in internal audit, she carved out a successful corporate career while raising three children. When the call came to step into Consumers Concrete, she prayed — and God confirmed.
“I was really praying about whether it was time to go back,” she shared. From a providential job interview to a literal car accident that rerouted her commute, Adrienne saw clear signs that God was redirecting her path. In January 2020 — just before the pandemic — she stepped into her new role as CEO. “The Lord literally gave me a bump,” she laughed, “and that timing worked out really well.”
Her obedience in following God’s lead has led to both challenge and reward — but always with divine purpose.
Leading Through Crisis with a Christlike Heart
Becoming CEO just before COVID-19 was no easy transition. But Adrienne’s response during the shutdown revealed her heart for her team and her unwavering trust in the Lord.
Despite shutting down operations for six weeks, Adrienne and her team ensured employees were still paid. “It was important that we were able to pay our employees through that time,” she said. “We are really in the people business.”
This kind of leadership — grounded in integrity, generosity, and service — flows from her faith. As Adrienne said, “Our faith life is the primary focus of our life together and our life at work.” Her leadership isn’t just about results. It’s about loving her neighbor, whether that’s a co-worker, vendor, or customer.
Business as Ministry — Giving and Generational Impact
Adrienne sees Consumers Concrete not just as a business, but a ministry. With over 240 employees and multiple generations of workers, she views the company as a vessel for God’s provision and blessing.
“This is not an industry to build wealth for ourselves,” Adrienne said. “We want to share this company with our co-workers. It’s more about making sure they can provide for their families.”
Beyond that, the company gives back to Christian ministries, local churches, and youth programs. From supporting Youth for Christ to sponsoring Christian camps, Adrienne and her family are intentional about reinvesting in God’s Kingdom.
Her words say it best: “I hope I’m remembered more for living like Christ than for the money I made.”
The Next Generation and the Eternal Foundation
Looking ahead to Consumers Concrete’s 100-year anniversary in 2033, Adrienne is committed to keeping the company’s values intact — while raising up new leaders for the future. “We’re looking to develop the next generation — not just family, but the best leaders,” she said.
What’s her guiding principle? Integrity and love.
“If we truly love our neighbors as ourselves, it changes everything.”
Adrienne’s leadership is anchored in surrender — not ambition. If she had a billboard on the busiest highway in America, it would say:
“I Surrender All.”
That’s the heart of a leader who knows that the business belongs to God — and that His plans are far greater than anything we can build with our own hands.
Written by Jovilyn Dela Cruz
“I hope I’m remembered more for living like Christ than for the money I made.”
