JE Dunn Construction - Award-Winning Company with a Legacy of Excellence
Founded: 1924
Founder: John Ernest Dunn
Number of employees: 4,500
Website: www.jedunn.com
Overview
JE Dunn Construction is a prominent construction firm based in the United States, with a rich history spanning over a century. The company was founded by John Ernest Dunn in 1924, and it has since evolved into one of the leading construction and contracting companies in the country. Headquartered in Kansas City, Missouri, JE Dunn Construction operates across the United States, employing thousands of people and providing construction services to a diverse range of clients.
Company History
The history of JE Dunn Construction can be traced back to its founder, John Ernest Dunn, who established the company in 1924. Born in 1894 in St. Joseph, Missouri, John E. Dunn began his career as a carpenter and worked his way up to become a general contractor. He instilled the values of honesty, hard work, and fairness in his business, which has since been passed down through generations of the Dunn family.
Under the leadership of the founder’s son, William H. Dunn, Sr., the company expanded its operations in the 1950s and 1960s, completing several high-profile projects in the Kansas City metropolitan area. These projects included the construction of the Harry S. Truman Library, the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City, and the Truman Sports Complex.
The company continued to grow in the 1970s and 1980s, opening regional offices in Denver, Colorado, and Atlanta, Georgia. JE Dunn Construction expanded its services, taking on projects in the commercial, industrial, and institutional sectors, as well as public works and federal government contracts.
In 1990, William H. Dunn, Sr., handed over the reins of the company to his son, Terry Dunn, who served as the President and CEO until 2014. Under Terry’s leadership, JE Dunn Construction further solidified its reputation as a leading construction firm, boasting annual revenues exceeding $2 billion. In 2014, Terry retired, and his brother, Gordon Lansford, assumed the role of President and CEO.
Services
JE Dunn Construction offers a wide range of construction services, which are tailored to the specific needs of its diverse clientele. The company specializes in providing preconstruction, construction management, design-build, general contracting, and integrated project delivery services. JE Dunn Construction has experience working in various sectors, including healthcare, education, commercial, industrial, government, aviation, and religious facilities.
Preconstruction services provided by JE Dunn Construction involve cost estimating, value engineering, scheduling, site analysis, and constructability reviews. The company leverages the latest technology, such as Building Information Modeling (BIM), to optimize design and construction processes, minimize waste, and maximize value for its clients.
The company’s construction management services encompass planning, coordination, and execution of construction projects, ensuring that projects are completed on time, within budget, and in accordance with clients’ expectations. JE Dunn Construction has the capability to work as a construction manager at-risk or as an agency construction manager, depending on the clients’ preferences.
In the design-build approach, JE Dunn Construction collaborates with architects and engineers to provide integrated design and construction services under a single contract. This method streamlines project delivery, fostering a collaborative environment that promotes innovation, cost savings, and time efficiency.
Projects
It is not feasible to provide a comprehensive list of all completed projects by JE Dunn Construction due to the extensive nature of their portfolio and the company’s history spanning nearly a century. However, we can provide an overview of some of their most significant and notable completed projects, showcasing the company’s expertise and capabilities across various sectors:
Harry S. Truman Library (Independence, Missouri): JE Dunn Construction completed the construction of the presidential library in 1957. The library serves as a museum and research facility, housing documents and artifacts related to President Truman’s life and presidency.
Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City (Kansas City, Missouri): Completed in 1961, the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City is one of 12 regional Reserve Banks that, along with the Board of Governors in Washington, D.C., make up the United States’ central banking system.
Truman Sports Complex (Kansas City, Missouri): Comprising the Kauffman Stadium and Arrowhead Stadium, the Truman Sports Complex was completed in the early 1970s. The Kauffman Stadium is home to the Kansas City Royals (MLB), while the Arrowhead Stadium hosts the Kansas City Chiefs (NFL).
Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts (Kansas City, Missouri): Completed in 2011, the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts is a cultural and architectural landmark. The center houses two state-of-the-art performance venues, the Muriel Kauffman Theatre and the Helzberg Hall.
National Western Center (Denver, Colorado): JE Dunn Construction completed several phases of the National Western Center, a massive redevelopment project in Denver. The center serves as a hub for agricultural research, education, and entertainment, hosting events such as the annual National Western Stock Show.
Georgia Institute of Technology, Engineered Biosystems Building (Atlanta, Georgia): Completed in 2015, the Engineered Biosystems Building is a cutting-edge research facility focusing on the life sciences, biotechnology, and bioengineering fields.
Froedtert & the Medical College of Wisconsin, Center for Advanced Care (Milwaukee, Wisconsin): Completed in 2015, the Center for Advanced Care is a state-of-the-art healthcare facility providing cancer care, heart and vascular services, and transplant services.
Oregon State University, Austin Hall College of Business (Corvallis, Oregon): Completed in 2014, Austin Hall is a LEED Gold-certified building housing the College of Business at Oregon State University.
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, Maynard H. Jackson Jr. International Terminal (Atlanta, Georgia): Completed in 2012, the international terminal is a major expansion to one of the busiest airports in the world.
Dell Seton Medical Center at The University of Texas (Austin, Texas): Completed in 2017, the Dell Seton Medical Center is a teaching hospital that serves as the primary teaching facility for the Dell Medical School at The University of Texas at Austin.
The University of Kansas Health System, Cambridge North Tower (Kansas City, Kansas): Completed in 2017, this 11-story medical tower houses surgical suites, inpatient care units, and a parking garage, expanding the capacity of The University of Kansas Health System.
Pinnacle Bank Arena (Lincoln, Nebraska): Completed in 2013, this 15,000-seat multi-purpose arena hosts various events, including concerts, sporting events, and conventions, and serves as the home court for the University of Nebraska basketball teams.
The Colorado Judicial Center (Denver, Colorado): Completed in 2013, this complex comprises the Ralph L. Carr Colorado Judicial Center and the Colorado State Court of Appeals, housing the state’s highest courts and legal agencies.
Duke University, Karsh Alumni and Visitors Center (Durham, North Carolina): Completed in 2019, this center serves as a gateway to Duke University, providing event and meeting spaces, visitor amenities, and an alumni center for the university community.
The University of Arizona Cancer Center at Dignity Health St. Joseph’s Hospital (Phoenix, Arizona): Completed in 2015, this comprehensive cancer treatment facility offers clinical services, research, and educational programs to patients and medical professionals.
GSA Federal Building (San Juan, Puerto Rico): Completed in 2014, this modern, environmentally friendly federal building provides office space for various agencies, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, The Pavilion (Houston, Texas): Completed in 2018, this facility features a conference center, a café, a rooftop garden, and spaces for patient care, research, and support services.
The Children’s Mercy Research Institute (Kansas City, Missouri): Completed in 2021, this nine-story research facility focuses on pediatric research and innovation, housing laboratories, conference rooms, and collaboration spaces.
Iowa State University, Student Innovation Center (Ames, Iowa): Completed in 2020, this LEED-certified building serves as a hub for interdisciplinary collaboration, offering flexible learning spaces, fabrication labs, and project rooms for students across various disciplines.
Fort Leavenworth National Cemetery, Expansion & Improvement (Fort Leavenworth, Kansas): Completed in 2018, this project involved the expansion and improvement of the cemetery to accommodate more burials and enhance the overall appearance of the site.
Partnerships
Throughout its history, JE Dunn Construction has forged strategic partnerships with various industry players to enhance its service offerings and deliver exceptional results for its clients. These partnerships include collaborations with architects, engineers, subcontractors, suppliers, and technology providers.
A notable partnership is with Autodesk, a leading provider of design and construction software solutions. JE Dunn Construction leverages Autodesk’s BIM 360 platform to improve collaboration, coordination, and efficiency in its projects. This partnership allows the company to harness the latest technology in design and construction, streamlining processes, and ensuring optimal project outcomes.
Another key partnership is with the Lean Construction Institute (LCI), an organization focused on transforming the construction industry through the adoption of lean principles. JE Dunn Construction has been an active member of LCI since 2005, incorporating lean construction methodologies into its projects to minimize waste, improve productivity, and deliver greater value to clients.
Growth and Expansion
JE Dunn Construction has demonstrated consistent growth and expansion since its inception in 1924. The company’s growth can be attributed to various factors, including strategic diversification, geographic expansion, and a strong commitment to quality, safety, and innovation. Below is an overview of the company’s growth and expansion:
Diversification: JE Dunn Construction has diversified its services over time, offering preconstruction, construction management, design-build, general contracting, and integrated project delivery services. This diversification has allowed the company to tap into various sectors, including healthcare, education, commercial, industrial, government, aviation, and religious facilities.
Geographic Expansion: The company’s growth strategy has involved expanding its presence beyond its Kansas City, Missouri, headquarters. In the 1950s and 1960s, JE Dunn Construction began working on high-profile projects in the Kansas City metropolitan area, such as the Harry S. Truman Library, the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City, and the Truman Sports Complex. In the 1970s and 1980s, the company opened regional offices in Denver, Colorado, and Atlanta, Georgia. Today, JE Dunn Construction operates across the United States, with additional regional offices in Austin, Texas; Charlotte, North Carolina; Minneapolis, Minnesota; Portland, Oregon; and Savannah, Georgia.
Revenue Growth: JE Dunn Construction’s revenue has grown significantly over the years, reflecting the company’s successful expansion and diversification strategies. In 2014, the company reported annual revenues exceeding $2 billion. According to the Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 400 Contractors list, JE Dunn Construction ranked 22nd in 2021, illustrating its strong performance and position within the industry.
Workforce Expansion: As the company has grown, so has its workforce. JE Dunn Construction currently employs thousands of professionals across various disciplines, including construction management, engineering, design, and administration. This growth in workforce size has enabled the company to undertake and complete numerous projects simultaneously.
Technology and Innovation: JE Dunn Construction has embraced technology and innovation as part of its growth strategy. The company leverages Building Information Modeling (BIM) and other cutting-edge tools to optimize design and construction processes, minimize waste, and maximize value for its clients. JE Dunn Construction has also forged strategic partnerships with industry-leading technology providers, such as Autodesk, to stay ahead of industry trends and maintain a competitive edge.
Awards and Recognition: JE Dunn Construction’s growth and expansion have been accompanied by numerous awards and recognitions, which have served to solidify the company’s reputation as a leader in the construction industry. These accolades include consistent high rankings in the ENR Top 400 Contractors list, Associated General Contractors (AGC) awards for project excellence and safety, sustainability certifications such as LEED and Green Globes, and corporate citizenship and diversity awards.
JE Dunn Construction’s growth and expansion have been driven by diversification, geographic expansion, revenue growth, workforce expansion, technology and innovation, and numerous awards and recognitions. These factors have positioned the company as a leading construction firm in the United States with a strong track record of success in various sectors.
Awards and Recognition
JE Dunn Construction has received numerous awards and recognitions for its commitment to excellence in construction, innovation, and corporate responsibility. Some of the company’s most notable accolades include:
Engineering News-Record (ENR) Rankings: JE Dunn Construction consistently ranks among the top construction companies in the United States, according to ENR’s annual Top 400 Contractors list. In 2021, the company was ranked 22nd on the list, reflecting its strong performance and leadership in the industry.
Associated General Contractors (AGC) Awards: JE Dunn Construction has been honored with several AGC awards for its projects and safety initiatives. These include the AGC Build America Award for the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts in Kansas City, Missouri, and the AGC Construction Safety Excellence Award, recognizing the company’s commitment to maintaining a safe work environment.
Sustainability Awards: The company has received numerous accolades for its dedication to sustainable construction practices. Notable awards include the Green Building Initiative’s Green Globes certification and the U.S. Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification for various projects. JE Dunn Construction also received the 2020 ENR Mountain States Award of Merit for the Sustainability category for its work on the National Western Center in Denver, Colorado.
Corporate Citizenship and Diversity Awards: JE Dunn Construction is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace and supporting local communities. The company has been recognized for its efforts in this regard, receiving the Kansas City Business Journal’s Champions of Business Award and the Corporate Citizen of the Year Award from the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce.
Company’s Values and Culture
JE Dunn Construction is committed to fostering a positive and inclusive company culture that is built on a foundation of strong values. The company’s values and culture have played a crucial role in its success and reputation within the construction industry. Here is an overview of JE Dunn Construction’s company values and culture:
Safety: Safety is a core value at JE Dunn Construction, and the company prioritizes the well-being of its employees, subcontractors, and clients. The company has implemented comprehensive safety programs and procedures, earning recognition for its commitment to safety, such as the Associated General Contractors (AGC) Construction Safety Excellence Award.
Integrity: JE Dunn Construction prides itself on conducting business ethically and honestly. The company is dedicated to upholding the highest standards of professionalism, fairness, and transparency in all its dealings with clients, employees, subcontractors, and other stakeholders.
Quality: The company is committed to delivering exceptional quality in all its projects, from the planning and design stages to construction and completion. This commitment to quality is evident in the numerous awards and recognitions the company has received for its projects, such as the AGC Build America Award for the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts.
Collaboration: JE Dunn Construction believes in the power of teamwork and collaboration to drive project success. The company encourages open communication, knowledge sharing, and cooperation among its employees, subcontractors, and clients to ensure the best possible outcomes for every project.
Innovation: The company is dedicated to embracing innovation and leveraging cutting-edge technology to streamline construction processes, enhance efficiency, and deliver greater value to clients. JE Dunn Construction invests in research and development and partners with industry-leading technology providers to stay at the forefront of construction innovation.
Community Involvement and Corporate Citizenship: JE Dunn Construction is committed to giving back to the communities in which it operates, supporting local organizations and initiatives through charitable giving, volunteer work, and other forms of community engagement. The company has been recognized for its corporate citizenship efforts, receiving awards such as the Kansas City Business Journal’s Champions of Business Award and the Corporate Citizen of the Year Award from the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce.
Diversity and Inclusion: JE Dunn Construction is dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment where employees from all backgrounds can thrive. The company actively promotes equal opportunities, offering programs and resources aimed at enhancing diversity and inclusion within the organization.
Sustainability: The company is committed to promoting sustainable construction practices and minimizing the environmental impact of its projects. JE Dunn Construction has received numerous sustainability certifications, such as LEED and Green Globes, for various projects, and was honored with the 2020 ENR Mountain States Award of Merit for the Sustainability category for its work on the National Western Center.
JE Dunn Construction’s company values and culture revolve around safety, integrity, quality, collaboration, innovation, community involvement, diversity and inclusion, and sustainability. These values have shaped the company’s reputation as a responsible, ethical, and high-performing construction firm, contributing to its success and growth over the years.
Community Involvement
JE Dunn Construction has a strong commitment to community involvement and actively engages in various initiatives to support and give back to the communities in which it operates. Here are some examples of the company’s community involvement efforts:
JE Dunn Foundation: Established in 1990, the JE Dunn Foundation serves as the company’s philanthropic arm, providing financial support to charitable organizations and community initiatives. The foundation focuses on areas such as education, healthcare, arts and culture, and youth development. Over the years, the JE Dunn Foundation has contributed millions of dollars to various causes and organizations.
Volunteerism: JE Dunn Construction encourages its employees to participate in volunteer activities and contribute their time and skills to support local community initiatives. The company has organized various volunteer events and partnered with nonprofit organizations, such as Habitat for Humanity, to make a positive impact on the communities they serve.
Hammer Time: “Hammer Time” is an annual event organized by JE Dunn Construction in which employees across the company’s regional offices participate in local volunteer projects on the same day. These projects typically involve activities such as home construction, renovation, and landscaping in partnership with local nonprofit organizations.
Sponsorships and Partnerships: JE Dunn Construction is involved in numerous sponsorships and partnerships with local organizations, educational institutions, and community events, supporting causes that align with the company’s values and mission. These partnerships help to strengthen the company’s ties to the community and contribute to local development and well-being.
JE Dunn Construction Minority Contractor Business Development (MCBD) Program: The company’s MCBD program aims to promote economic development and diversity within the construction industry by providing resources and support to minority-owned and women-owned business enterprises. The program includes mentorship, training, and networking opportunities, helping these businesses to grow and succeed in the industry.
Community Service Awards: JE Dunn Construction has been recognized for its community involvement efforts with various awards, such as the Kansas City Business Journal’s Champions of Business Award and the Corporate Citizen of the Year Award from the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce. These accolades underscore the company’s commitment to making a positive impact on the communities in which it operates.
JE Dunn Construction is actively engaged in community involvement through its philanthropic foundation, volunteerism, sponsorships and partnerships, and programs focused on promoting diversity and economic development within the construction industry. The company’s community engagement efforts have been acknowledged with several awards, reflecting its dedication to supporting and giving back to the communities it serves.
In conclusion, JE Dunn Construction is a highly regarded construction company with a storied history dating back to 1924. The firm offers a wide range of construction services, including preconstruction, construction management, design-build, general contracting, and integrated project delivery. While the company remains privately held, it has forged key partnerships with industry leaders and has garnered numerous awards and recognitions for its commitment to excellence, innovation, and corporate responsibility. With a strong track record of success, JE Dunn Construction continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the built environment across the United States.
Disclaimer: Please note that the names and positions of employees mentioned may be subject to change, as individuals may move to different roles or organizations. While we make every effort to keep our information accurate and up-to-date, we cannot guarantee that all employee details are current or complete. We encourage you to verify the identity and positions of any individual mentioned and check their Linkedin Profile before taking any action based on their role.
Employees
Gordon Lansford – President & CEO
Tim Dunn – Chairman and Chief Investment & Treasury Officer
Mark Reilly – President, JE Dunn Construction West Region
Dan Kaufman – President- East Region
John Jacobs – Chief Information Officer
Beth Soukup – CFO
Tom Heger – Vice President
Jeff Jenkins – Vice President
Eric Floyd – Vice President
Kyle Masters – Vice President, Business Development
Vance McMillan – Vice President – Justice Group
Jeff Callinan – Vice President
Kevin Rogert – Vice President
Chris Hermreck – Vice President
Margaret Bowker – Senior Vice President
Drew Emerson – Vice President
Mark Stocks – Vice President, Director Enterprise Architecture
Shannon Baird – Vice President – Project Executive
Jake Bowron – Regional Vice President Of Operations
Jake Nellis – Vice President
Tom Raney – Senior Vice President, Client Solutions
Chris Cole – Vice President
Jason L. Beiter – Vice President, Director of Construction Operations
John Graham – Vice President of Finance
Darcy (Frick) Stewart – Senior Vice President of Client Solution
Paul Wilkins – Vice President – Director Preconstruction Services
Mary Bristow – Senior Vice President, National Marketing Director
Pat Arrington – Vice President
Curt Campbell – Vice President
Brian Burkett – Vice President
Brian Haulotte – Vice President – Regional Director of Construction Operations
Michelle Ott – Vice President – Marketing Strategy Director
Vicki Sarris – Marketing Director
Amber Timmermeyer – Marketing Manager
Molly Brown – Marketing Manager
Katie Blue – Marketing Manager
Erin (Goff) Lambert – Marketing Director, Corporate Marketing
Traci Clatterbuck – Marketing Director, Midwest Region
Dinah Layton – Sr. Marketing Coordinator
Amy Blanco – Marketing Manager
Kim Guerin – Marketing Manager
Justin Davidson – Senior Marketing Manager – Industrial & Manufacturing
Breanne Taylor – Vice President, Human Resources Director
Caitlin Mundschenk – Regional Human Resources Director
Jen Harrell – Vice President, HRIS & HR Operations Director
Suzanne Kessler – VP, Human Resources
Carrie Evans – Senior Human Resources Coordinator