Brent Hamblin
Heavy Crane and Rigging

Affectionately known by many of our young operators as “Grandpa Brent,” Brent came to Smiley Lifting 3½ years ago to assist with our Large Crane Group development. In additional to jumping in the trenches and working alongside of the large crane team to build cranes and get lifts done, Brent prides himself on mentoring young operators in both their career and life. You will be hard pressed to find a better person, as Brent genuinely shows that he cares about each and every person he meets.

As a young boy, Brent would often tell his mom that he was going to grow up to run cranes. His love of the industry started very early in life, and he has now worked in the industry for over 40 years. In those 40 years, he spent 20 in crane rental and the other 20 years in structural steel as an operator, but also in planning, creating lift plans, maintaining owned equipment, and setting up jobs.

Brent grew up in a large family and has six children himself, ranging in ages 18-34. His four sons and two daughters own his heart, but his two perfect granddaughters melt it. His favorite family activities often revolve around being on the water and cooking/eating good food. Vacations to Rocky Point are a family highlight and he is working to plan a well-deserved deep-sea fishing trip in the near future.

Those of us that have worked with Brent can take comfort in the fact that no matter the situation, we always have a mentor, friend, or “grandpa” in Brent. He is the first to volunteer his time to listen and help however he can.

Brent with his Granddaughters

Brent “Like a Kid in a Candy Store”

“Grandpa Brent” Mentoring a Future Crane Operator