Built from the Heart: Construction of Center for Student Life and College of Business Sentimental for Ruscilli Project Engineer
Posted On October 18, 2017
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It’s been over 30 years since Ben Oler attended dinosaur school, a summer enrichment program for young children in Old Main, while his mother attended classes at Findlay College. Now as a lead project engineer for Ruscilli Construction Company, Inc., he’s proud to say he served a crucial role in the construction of the University of Findlay’s newest building, the Center for Student Life and College of Business.
Oler’s past ties to the University expand well beyond his experience in dinosaur school. Not only is his mother, Christine Davis ’88, a graduate of Findlay College, but she was born in an apartment on Frazer Street, which is now owned by the University. His grandfather, Jerry Ammons ’60, aunt, Lisa Ammons ’84, uncle, John Ammons ’85, and stepfather, Stephen Davis ’89 are also all graduates of Findlay College.
Oler even had a role in building the Koehler Recreational Complex in 1997. He worked with his father Charles Oler, who was the project’s construction superintendent.
Oler comes from a long line of Oilers. So it comes as no surprise that he jumped at the chance to take on a project that holds a lot of sentimental value to him.
“To be able to build a project of this size in my hometown with so many ties to the University is not a chance that comes along very often,” said Oler.
Oler brought more than 20 years of construction experience to the project. As part of the management team, he oversaw daily operations. He also worked with quality control, personnel, problem-solving, coordination and scheduling to make sure the project was completed.
While Oler oversaw the construction of the Center for Student Life and College of Business, he took time to explain what he loves most about the University.
“Its ability to turn a rural Midwestern town into a center of activity, drawing companies such as Cooper Tire, Whirlpool, and Marathon, while still maintaining its charming nature is its most defining characteristic.”
Because of this, Oler says the impact that UF makes isn’t just felt locally, but nationally.
“Not only can Oilers be found all over the state, but all over the country, illustrating how a small-town university provides opportunities reaching far beyond its size.”
Oler hopes that the new building will be a prominent part of college life for future generations of Findlay students.
“The thought and care put into the construction of the Center for Student Life and College of Business is apparent, seen in the craftsmanship and architectural design. Hopefully, future generations of UF students will enjoy, and proudly recognize this as the cornerstone of their university experience.”
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