HC+M Companies Step Up at Republic Airways Plane Pull, Raising $1 Million for Indiana Children
Excitement soared at the Indianapolis International Airport on Saturday, April 26, as teams gathered for the 13th annual Republic Airways Plane Pull, presented by Lucas Oil. With 56 teams competing to pull a 24-ton aircraft, this year’s event raised an incredible $1 million to support children battling life-threatening illnesses. Proceeds directly benefit organizations dedicated to making a difference including A Kid Again, Indiana Wish, Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital and the Riley Children’s Foundation.
Among the enthusiastic participants were teams from two of the HC+M family of companies: Milestone Contractors and Asphalt Materials, Inc. (AMI). Milestone returned for the fourth consecutive year with two competitive teams, and AMI made an impressive debut with one determined group.
With gloves on and ropes gripped, teams lined up in anticipation. “Ready… Set… Pull!” Participants used their strength to move the plane toward the finish line.
For the second consecutive year, Milestone Contractor’s “Concrete Cowboys” team secured an outstanding second-place finish, showcasing their determination and teamwork. AMI embraced the fun, camaraderie and the opportunity to support an incredible cause.
“We weren’t sure what to expect, but it turned out to be a bunch of fun,” said AMI’s Indianapolis Plant Manager Scott Hippert. “We have committed to returning next year and giving the reigning champs some healthy competition!”
The Plane Pull was more than just a test of strength, it was a celebration. Attendees explored booths hosted by local businesses and nonprofits and enjoyed balloon animals, face painting, interactive exhibits and exciting photo ops with Star Wars characters, Disney Princesses and local celebrities.
One of the event’s most heartwarming moments for Milestone’s Superintendent Emily Mick was seeing the excitement of boys and girls running to the Milestone table to put on a white or pink hard hat.
“They all looked so proud to wear the construction safety gear!” she said.
Milestone’s involvement in the Plane Pull is rooted in a commitment to charitable work. The company first joined the event after supporting a horse barn project for disabled children through The Children’s TheraPlay Foundation. When the opportunity arose to contribute to Indiana Wish through the Plane Pull, it was a natural fit and one that has since become a cherished tradition.
Reflecting on the event, Milestone’s Senior Plant Accountant Cathy Wethington shared, “This event means helping those in need, even in a small way. It’s fun, it brings laughs and knowing we’re helping fulfill children’s wishes makes it even more special.”
As another successful Plane Pull came to a close, participants left with a sense of accomplishment, knowing they had contributed to something far bigger than themselves. Milestone and AMI look ahead to next year ready to rally their teams, test their strength and, most importantly, continue uplifting Indiana’s children one pull at a time.
The countdown to 2026 begins, so who’s ready to step up and pull for a great cause?
About Heritage Construction + Materials
Heritage Construction + Materials (HC+M) is part of The Heritage Group, a privately held, family-owned business headquartered in Indianapolis. HC+M has core capabilities in infrastructure building. Its collection of companies provides innovative road construction and materials services across the Midwest. HC+M companies, including Asphalt Materials, Inc., Evergreen Roadworks, Milestone Contractors and US Aggregates, proudly employ 3,000 people at 85 locations across seven states. Learn more at www.heritagebuilds.com.
About Asphalt Materials, Inc.Asphalt Materials is a privately held, family-owned business headquartered in Indianapolis. Over its 66-year history, Asphalt Materials has prioritized safety and created a people-focused culture around asphalt expertise and innovation. Through its commitment to building long-term relationships with employees, customers, and vendors based on trust and confidence, Asphalt Materials creates solutions to issues affecting customers and our communities. Asphalt Materials is a part of The Heritage Group’s family of businesses. Learn more at www.asphalt-materials.com.
About Milestone Contractors, L.P.Milestone Contractors is a privately held, family-owned business headquartered in Indianapolis. Milestone Contractors is a fully integrated heavy construction company specializing in highway, bridge, asphalt and concrete paving and site development. Over its 30-year history, Milestone has built a reputation for prioritizing safety, quality, people and innovation. Milestone Contractors is a part of The Heritage Group’s family of companies. Learn more at www.milestonelp.com.
