Brian O’Neal
Chief Operating Officer
Brian began his utility construction career in 1989 as a laborer, and advanced to the position of foreman within just a couple of years. By 2000, he transitioned from utility construction to utility locating, eventually rising to the role of NW Florida supervisor.
In 2006, he joined Southland (CSI) where he has taken on various roles including Damage Prevention Supervisor and Director of Operations. In 2024, he was appointed as the Chief Operating Officer (COO). Brian holds a Florida Certified Underground Utility and Excavation Contractor License.
Fun Fact: Brian was given the nickname Blondie at 17 years old shortly after beginning his career. Most people in the industry only know him by his nickname!
Alice McRae
Director of Human Resources
Alice began her career as a medical receptionist, gaining extensive experience over five years before transitioning to Human Resources in 2004. With two decades of expertise in HR, she has specialized in employee benefits, payroll, HR consulting, and operations for Department of Defense contractors.
Since joining Southland in 2023, Alice has leveraged her extensive background to support organizational success and operational excellence. She holds a bachelor’s degree in business management with a concentration in Human Resources and is a SHRM-Certified Professional (SHRM-CP).
Fun Fact: Alice is embarking on her “empty nest” era, which she kicked off with an impromptu trip to Key West, taking only the scenic route down the coast of Florida.
Hamford Bengson
Director of Operations
Hamford began his career in the construction industry in the early 1990s shortly after graduating from Walton High School.
A lifelong Walton County resident, he joined Southland (formerly known as CSI) in 2008 as a laborer. Through hard work and dedication, he rose through the ranks to become a foreman and later earned the position of Underground Superintendent in 2017. In 2018, Hamford took on leadership of Southland’s Right of Way Department, stepping into the role of Operations Superintendent. During this time, he played a critical role in storm restoration efforts following the devastating impact of Hurricane Michael on the Panhandle. By 2024, his steadfast commitment and leadership earned him the position of Director of Operations. In this role, Hamford oversees the Right of Way, Underground, Field Inspections, and Locate Departments, ensuring operational excellence across the board.
Fun Fact: Hamford is a passionate outdoorsman who enjoys spending his free time in the woods hunting or on the water fishing.
Jennifer Cheatham, CUSP ET&D, ULCA
Director of Safety and Training
Jennifer’s career in the construction industry began even before she graduated high school, working as an electrical and HVAC technician in her family’s business.
In 2017, seeking a new challenge, she joined Southland as a Code Form Specialist. Her exceptional performance led to a promotion in 2020 to Safety Officer and Field Inspections Supervisor. By 2021, she had advanced to the role of Director of Safety and Inspections, and in 2024, she assumed her current position as Director of Safety and Training.
Jennifer brings a wealth of certifications and expertise to her role. She is an authorized instructor in CPR, First Aid, AED, Intermediate Maintenance of Traffic/Temporary Traffic Control, and Class A CDL. She also holds OSHA 10-hour and 30-hour cards for both General Industry and Construction. Jennifer’s academic credentials include a Bachelor of Science in Public Safety and Security with a concentration in Criminal Intelligence from Florida State University.
Fun Fact: Outside of work, Jennifer stays active and competitive. She spends her free time at the gym or on the softball field, where she plays on several teams.
Linda Fortin
Code Form Specialist
Linda is the newest member to Southland’s team, but she is no stranger to hard work. With a decade of experience in the construction industry as a handyman assistant, she has honed her skills in creativity, problem-solving, and delivering high-quality results. Her dedication to completing projects to the highest standards is matched only by her passion for learning and self-improvement. Linda excels at multitasking, meeting deadlines, and fostering clear communication—skills that make her a valuable asset to our team.
Linda is thrilled to be part of the Code Form department and is diving into every opportunity to expand her knowledge and expertise. For Linda, there’s always something new to discover, and she’s eager to embrace the challenges ahead.
Fun Fact: Linda has a slight obsession with books, coffee, dogs, and plants—her ideal day includes all four!
Ashley Bartlett
Senior Administrative Assistant
Ashley serves as the Senior Administrative Assistant for Southland Utility Services, where she is an indispensable asset to the company.
With seven years of experience in administrative roles, Ashley expertly manages a diverse range of responsibilities that include reception, data entry, accounts payable and receivable, processing Sunshine 811 requests, accounting support, and event planning. Her attention to detail and organizational skills contribute significantly to the efficiency and success of company operations.
Ashley holds an Associate of Arts degree from Northwest Florida State College, which has equipped her with the knowledge and skills to thrive in her multifaceted role. Her ability to juggle complex tasks and adapt to evolving needs makes her an integral part of the Southland team.
Fun Fact: When she’s not at work, Ashley enjoys immersing herself in a good book and tending to her flourishing garden, where she has quite the Willow Tree Collection.