Steve Barker joined Wathco in October 2024 as a construction Project Manager. He brought with him nearly five decades of experience in both new and remodel construction in full-service and quick-serve restaurants. His experience includes working with restaurant brands such as Shoney’s, Captain D’s, Danvers, Perkins Family Restaurants, Houlihan’s, DQ Grill & Chill, Steak N Shake, Beef O’Brady’s, as well as numerous other local non-chain restaurants. He also managed retail outlet projects for Advance Auto Parts, medical facilities, professional offices, and various other retail establishments. Most recently, he served more than twelve years as Director of Construction for CKE Restaurants, where he managed a team of Project Managers for over 2,700 Hardee’s and Carl’s Jr. Restaurants throughout the domestic U.S.

His educational background includes three years with the Apprenticeship School of Carpentry associated with Carpenter’s Local #345 in Memphis, TN, as well as two years studying Building Construction Technology at State Technical Institute at Memphis.

During his free time, Steve enjoys playing golf, attending MLB games as a St. Louis Cardinals fan, traveling with his wife, and visiting family members and friends in numerous states.