BFS SPOTLIGHT: MILITARY APPRECIATION MONTH 2025
At Builders FirstSource, veterans play a vital role in our organization. We are honored to work alongside individuals from the military community across all levels of our company. In recognition of Military Appreciation Month this May, we’re taking time to celebrate, honor and remember the courageous individuals who have served, or are currently serving, our nation. We’re also committed to welcoming more veterans into our workforce. In that spirit, we’re excited to share some of their incredible stories.
ERICA GONZALES (ROSE)
Estimating Department in Southern California
Erica has been with Builders FirstSource for five years. She was a bulk fuel specialist in the Marine Corps where she shaped her ethical perspective and professionalism, and applies them today in being a reliable teammate at BFS. Her experience in the military has given her a great appreciation of life and she is thankful for the opportunities our country provides.
EDWARD HINOJOSA
Assistant General Manager in Colorado Springs, CO
Edward has been with Builders FirstSource for over six years. He was a fire support specialist in the Army and his experience and comfort with daily operations was a catalyst for his decision to join BFS. From his start as a truck driver to his current managerial role, he has applied those daily operations skills with positive results. He is motivated by his family at home, his BFS team and the customers he provides with high-level service. Edward believes military veterans have exceptional skill sets that can be applied successfully to our industry even without a background in lumber.
JOHNATHAN MARKER
READY-FRAME® Production Manager in Orem, Utah
Johnathan has been with Builders FirstSource for over a year. He was in both the Navy and Air Force for a total of 25 years of military service. Much of his military experience involved being a team leader, which came into play when BFS offered him a position as a production manager. He enjoys being a leader because it allows him the opportunity to guide and mentor. Johnathan credits the TAP and BFS SkillBridge programs for preparing him to start his new professional life.
EMARIELI PASSALACQUA
Human Resource Manager in Oklahoma City, OK
Emarieli has been with Builders FirstSource for over a year. She served in the Army as an HR specialist for about 11 years. She enjoyed her responsibilities because they included helping people beyond paperwork. She took that passion to BFS where she helps people grow and develop. She credits the military for teaching her discipline, adaptability and leadership–skills she uses today. Emarieli also credits BFS's participation in the SkillBridge Program for providing her with real world experience while still being on active duty to help her transition to civilian life.
TELLY SPARKS
Assistant General Manager in Cedar Park, Texas
Telly has been with Builders FirstSource for over three years. He served in the Army for 21 years and was an ADA Mike (Motor Transport Operator Distribution Platoon Sergeant). In that role, he acquired many of the leadership skills he employs today as a general manager. In his path to that role, he started as a manager-in-training where he learned all about BFS products. SFL-TAP and Hired Heroes helped him with his transition to civilian life. Telly is a self-claimed introvert who grew to love being around people due to his military experiences and new life at BFS.