February 2026 —
“There’s an energy you can only feel when people who care about the same mission and the same future come together,” said Matt Esler, CEO of Esler Companies. “Kickoff is one of our favorite moments of the year because it reminds us what’s possible when our teams align around where we’re going next.”
Throughout February, Esler Companies teams gathered across the country for their 2026 Kickoff events, annual celebrations where teammates pause from day-to-day work to reflect on the past year, celebrate progress, and align on the opportunities ahead.
During the celebrations, Renewal by Andersen leaders presented several awards honoring teammates who embody the company’s culture and values. These recognitions celebrate individuals who help shape Esler’s award-winning culture through leadership, accountability, connection, and a commitment to supporting those around them – living out the company’s vision of doing business WITH LOVE.
Esler Companies is proud to recognize the following teammates:
Spirit of Esler
The Spirit of Esler Award honors teammates who serve as the heartbeat of the company’s culture. These teammates welcome others in, build meaningful connections, and help every teammate feel valued and supported.
2025 Spirit of Esler Award Winners
- Arizona: Matt Kyte
- Central Texas: Alex Katz
- Colorado: Shaniece Valdez
- Greater Nevada: Ashley Moreno & Jeff Merson
- Greater Philadelphia: Rob Thorpe
- North Texas: Mena Bazaldua
- Oklahoma: Lincoln Miller
- Southern Maine & New Hampshire: Mike Begley
- Southern New England: Danielle Erickson
Extreme Ownership
The Extreme Ownership Award recognizes teammates who tackle challenges head-on, take full responsibility for results, and follow through until the job is done. These individuals lead by example, setting the standard for accountability, initiative, and action across their teams.
2025 Extreme Ownership Award Winners
- Arizona: Taylor McGlynn
- Central Texas: Flor Franco
- Colorado: Brea Miller
- Greater Nevada: James Hale & Zach Wigle
- Greater Philadelphia: Ed Olinik
- North Texas: Tina Gerber
- Oklahoma: David Waters
- Southern Maine & New Hampshire: Sean Lannon
- Southern New England: Shauna Skeean
- Communication & Marketing Centers: Darren Divris, Arian Bermudez, Damaria Shezbie, Marissa Evans, Katelyn Dennison, Graham Hurlburt & Tyler Peters
Culture Awards
Several teammates were also recognized for the unique ways they uplift those around them and strengthen the Esler culture.
Arizona
- Jim Reilly Mentorship Award: Mike Morgan
Greater Nevada
- Ripple Effect: Donovan Mertikas, Jla Laboy
- Outstanding Attitude: Cody Smith, Karina Fernandez
Communication & Marketing Centers
- Heart of Service: River Licci
- Culture Carrier: Michael Spinosa
- Unsung Hero: Pablo Nascimento
Talent & Culture
- Difference Maker: Sam Laginhas
- With Love Award: Gosia Baran
“Our Territory Kickoffs are about more than celebrating achievements – they’re about recognizing the people who make our culture thrive,” said Christina Schmit, Vice President of Talent and Culture at Esler Companies. “We’re proud to honor those who lead with love and show a genuine commitment to their teams, customers, and communities.”
Esler Companies is incredibly grateful for the teammates who bring its values to life and continue building a culture where everyone feels welcomed, supported, and empowered to succeed. Explore careers with Esler Companies here.
About Esler Companies
THE RENEWAL BY ANDERSEN | ESLER COMPANIES STORY
The Esler Companies is the holding company for Renewal by Andersen of Nevada, Arizona, Colorado, Oklahoma, North Texas, Central Texas, Greater Philadelphia, Southern New England and Portland, Maine, with communication and marketing engines in Northborough, Massachusetts & Austin, Texas.
Renewal by Andersen is the full-service window replacement division of Andersen Corporation, a company with more than 120 years of history and the most trusted family of window brands in America. Renewal by Andersen was founded to redefine the industry and deliver a truly better window replacement experience. Today, it includes 12 company-owned locations and nearly 100 independently owned affiliates across the United States.
