Competitive Edge Contracting (CEC) was founded in 2016 and has successfully completed over 2,000 installation and park rehabilitation projects. At the helm is our CEO and Owner, Steven Howard, an Arizona native who grew up on the same ranch his family has operated for five generations. He often says he started his career as a “shovel operator,” and if he’s not hard at work at CEC, you’ll likely find him outside with a shovel in hand.
Steven began his career in outdoor recreation installations in 2003, and his hands-on experience remains one of CEC’s greatest strengths. His ability to anticipate and mitigate challenges during the planning phase saves clients costly delays, and his firsthand understanding of fieldwork—from digging footings in the heat of a Phoenix summer to managing complex installations—ensures CEC delivers top-quality results. Having worked his way up from laborer to CEO, Steven has never lost sight of the fact that it’s the installers who bring every project to life.
CEC’s leadership team is equally experienced and dedicated. Our Director of Operations, Michael Dugan, has been installing playgrounds and park structures for over 22 years, leading some of the most complex builds in Arizona’s history. Operations Manager Jesus Barrientos, with 23 years of experience, plays a vital role in coordinating teams across the state, tackling new site challenges daily. “Splash Pad” Steve Wisecarver, head of our splash pad division, brings 41 years of construction expertise, with 23 years specializing in play and park installations. His deep knowledge and problem-solving skills ensure seamless execution on even the most demanding projects.
Beyond leadership, CEC is built on a foundation of highly skilled installers who take pride in their craftsmanship. Our foremen, each with a minimum of ten years of experience in playground, shade, and steel structure installations, are at the heart of our success. We believe in fostering strong teams through continuous training, mentorship, accountability, and respect. At CEC, we don’t just offer jobs—we provide opportunities for growth and development.
Our guiding principle is simple: “Be the best company to work for. Be the best company to work with.” While the phrase is simple, achieving it is a relentless pursuit. Whether we’re constructing a large-scale park or a small toddler play area, we understand the significance of every project to the community it serves. Whether we’re digging a footing or fine-tuning a design, our work is a reflection of who we are.
At CEC, our goal is nothing short of being the best, and we look forward to being your trusted partner on your next project.