Bret Curtis Joins Secretary of Labor on Visit to Geiger Ready Mix

Jul 2, 2025
Tax

Last week, Mize CPAs Shareholder Bret Curtis had the distinct honor of joining U.S. Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer during her visit to Kansas City—an opportunity made possible by long-time client and friend Todd Geiger of Geiger Ready Mix.

The visit was part of a nationwide tour initiative, directing presidential cabinet members to visit all 50 states to better understand local economic conditions. Secretary Chavez-DeRemer’s Kansas stop focused on employment, construction activity, and the regional impact of newly proposed federal tax legislation. She brought a genuine curiosity and sharp policy mind to her time in Kansas City—and Bret was proud to offer a local perspective on the matters at hand.

Group photo in front of a large red Geiger Ready-Mix cement truck featuring U.S. Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer, Todd Geiger, Bret Curtis, and other local leaders and officials during a site visit to a Kansas concrete plant.

Todd Geiger and Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer are center with Bret Curtis to the left of Todd Geiger. The group included Geiger Ready Mix owners, construction industry representatives, suppliers, Kansas Congress and Senate representatives.

A Trusted Voice

As a trusted advisor to Geiger Ready Mix for almost 30 years, Bret has seen firsthand how the company’s performance is deeply tied to the broader Kansas City economy. With Geiger’s Leavenworth-based operations dating back to 1842, the fifth-generation family-owned business plays a major role in regional infrastructure and serves as an informal barometer for construction trends in the metro.

Todd Geiger, recognizing Bret’s insight and deep connection to the company, invited him to join the open discussion during the Secretary’s visit. The meeting included state congressmen, senators, construction industry representatives, suppliers, and Kansas workforce development officials.

“It was an honor to be invited,” said Bret. “Not just to sit at the table, but to represent what’s happening on the ground in Kansas business. These are the kinds of conversations that shape national policy, and it was a privilege to offer that local lens.”

U.S. Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer talks with Todd Geiger during a tour of Geiger Ready-Mix in Kansas City, Kansas. Both are engaged in discussion, gesturing toward the facility as they stand outside under a sunny sky.

Secretary Chavez-DeRemer and Todd Geiger discuss construction trends in the Kansas City Metro area.

Policy Conversations with a Local Lens

With the backdrop of a newly passed tax bill in the Senate, Bret also had the chance to speak with the Secretary about federal tax policy. He shared how deductions and expiring provisions may impact Kansas businesses and discussed the broader economic implications from a Midwest perspective.

“She was gracious, sharp, and truly interested in how these policies affect businesses like Geiger Ready Mix and the people behind them,” Bret noted.

U.S. Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer sits in the driver’s seat of a Geiger Ready-Mix cement truck, smiling and wearing sunglasses. A man in a red shirt stands outside the truck. The truck door displays the name "Humberto Valles – 8 Years," honoring the employee’s service.

Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer sits behind the wheel of a Geiger Ready Mix Co. truck. The door of the truck notes the regular drivers hears of service. A mark of pride that emphasizes the family feel and dedication of the Geiger team.

A Family Business with a Strong Foundation

Beyond policy, the visit also celebrated the culture and values that make Geiger Ready Mix a pillar in the Kansas City business community. The company is known for recognizing long-time drivers by showcasing their years of service on the trucks they drive—a gesture that underscores the company’s family-first philosophy. That spirit of loyalty and commitment was felt throughout the visit.

Strengthening Kansas City’s Voice in Washington

The meeting underscored the importance of regional representation in federal conversations. As Bret emphasized, “Kansas City’s construction activity is strong right now, but it’s closely tied to the strength of the economy. These kinds of policy visits help ensure we keep momentum and continue to grow.”

Here at Mize CPAs, we’re proud of Bret’s role in representing the business community during this important visit and grateful for the decades-long relationship between our firm and Geiger Ready Mix. In a city where reputation and relationships go hand in hand, it’s moments like these that affirm the value of staying connected, staying informed, and showing up when it counts.