Knutson Construction - Award-Winning, Sustainable, and Community-Focused Builder
Founded: 1911
Headquarters: 7515 Wayzata Boulevard Minneapolis, MN 55426 USA
Phone: 763-546-1400
Number of employees: 250
Website: www.knutsonconstruction.com
Overview
Established in 1911, Knutson Construction is a family-owned construction firm based in the United States. With over a century of experience in the industry, the company has grown to become one of the leading construction service providers in the nation. Knutson Construction’s headquarters are located in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and the company has additional offices in Iowa, Wisconsin, and Florida.
The company’s history is rooted in the vision and dedication of its founder, Hans Knutson, a Norwegian immigrant who established the business at the age of 28. Over the years, the Knutson family has maintained a strong presence in the company, with the current CEO, John Curry, representing the fourth generation of family leadership.
Services
Knutson Construction offers a broad range of services that cater to various market sectors, including healthcare, education, commercial, industrial, and government projects. The company’s comprehensive services encompass the entire construction process, from pre-construction planning and design to construction management and post-construction follow-ups. Some of the key services provided by Knutson Construction include:
Pre-Construction: This phase involves project planning, budgeting, estimating, scheduling, and value engineering. The company collaborates closely with clients, architects, and engineers to ensure a smooth and efficient construction process.
Construction Management: Knutson Construction provides comprehensive construction management services, ensuring that projects are completed on time, within budget, and adhering to the highest quality standards. Their team of experienced professionals oversees every aspect of the project, from procurement and logistics to site supervision and quality control.
Design-Build: The company offers design-build services, where they work with clients to develop a project from conceptualization to completion. This streamlined approach allows Knutson Construction to optimize the construction process, reducing costs and increasing efficiency.
General Contracting: As a general contractor, Knutson Construction is responsible for all aspects of the construction process, including hiring subcontractors, managing schedules and budgets, and ensuring that all work is completed to the highest quality standards.
Sustainability: The Company is committed to sustainable construction practices, incorporating environmentally friendly materials and energy-efficient technologies into their projects. Knutson Construction has received numerous certifications, including LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) and Green Globes, for their sustainable building efforts.
Projects
The following selection highlights some of the key projects that the company has successfully completed. These projects showcase Knutson Construction’s expertise in various sectors and their commitment to delivering high-quality construction services.
MercyOne North Iowa Medical Center Emergency Department Expansion: Completed in 2020, this project involved the expansion of the emergency department at the medical center, improving patient flow and increasing capacity.
University of Iowa Stanley Museum of Art: Finished in 2019, Knutson Construction successfully completed the new Stanley Museum of Art, which features state-of-the-art galleries, classrooms, and storage facilities.
Hennepin County Medical Center Ambulatory Outpatient Specialty Center: This project, completed in 2018, involved the construction of a 377,000-square-foot outpatient specialty center that consolidated several clinics and improved patient care.
St. Olaf College Regents Hall of Natural and Mathematical Sciences: Finished in 2017, this project included the construction of a 200,000-square-foot facility housing state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, and offices for the college’s natural and mathematical sciences departments.
Luther College Aquatic Center: Completed in 2016, the Luther College Aquatic Center project involved the construction of a new aquatic center featuring a 25-yard pool, a diving well, and a recreational pool.
Target Field Station: Finished in 2014, this multi-modal transit hub in Minneapolis, Minnesota, was built to serve as a gateway to the city’s North Loop neighborhood, providing easy access to the Minnesota Twins’ ballpark, Target Field.
Gundersen Health System Legacy Building: Completed in 2014, this 430,000-square-foot facility in La Crosse, Wisconsin, houses clinical services, offices, and the Gundersen Health System’s regional headquarters.
Mayo Civic Center Expansion: Finished in 2017, this project in Rochester, Minnesota, involved the expansion and renovation of the Mayo Civic Center, a multi-purpose event facility. The project added a new convention center with meeting rooms, ballrooms, and pre-function spaces.
River’s Edge Hospital Expansion and Renovation: Completed in 2020, this project in St. Peter, Minnesota, involved a 48,000-square-foot expansion and a 17,000-square-foot renovation of the existing hospital. The expansion provided space for new inpatient rooms, an emergency department, a surgical suite, and a therapy center.
Ames High School: Finished in 2020, this project in Ames, Iowa, involved the construction of a new, 369,000-square-foot high school that features modern classrooms, a state-of-the-art auditorium, a gymnasium, and athletic facilities.
Mason City High School Gymnasium and Pool Addition: Completed in 2019, this project in Mason City, Iowa, involved a 62,000-square-foot addition to the existing high school, which included a new gymnasium, swimming pool, and support spaces.
Rochester International Airport Terminal Expansion and Renovation: Finished in 2019, this project in Rochester, Minnesota, involved the expansion and renovation of the airport terminal, including ticketing and baggage claim areas, security screening, and passenger amenities.
Winona State University Education Village: Completed in 2019, this project in Winona, Minnesota, involved the renovation and expansion of three historic buildings to create a modern, interconnected campus for the university’s education programs.
Mercy Hospital ICU and Pharmacy Expansion: Finished in 2018, this project in Coon Rapids, Minnesota, involved the expansion of the hospital’s intensive care unit and pharmacy, which provided additional patient care space and improved support services.
Cedar Rapids Public Library: Completed in 2013, this project in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, involved the construction of a new, 94,000-square-foot public library that replaced the previous library damaged by a flood. The building features modern library amenities, community spaces, and sustainable design elements.
Carleton College Weitz Center for Creativity: Finished in 2011, this project in Northfield, Minnesota, involved the renovation of a former middle school and the construction of a new addition to create a 70,000-square-foot interdisciplinary arts center for Carleton College.
Growth and Expansion
While specific financial data about Knutson Construction’s growth and expansion is limited due to its status as a privately-held company, there are several indicators of the company’s growth and expansion based on its history, geographical reach, and market sectors served. The following points highlight key aspects of Knutson Construction’s growth and expansion over the years:
Geographical Expansion: Established in Minneapolis, Minnesota in 1911, Knutson Construction has expanded its presence across the United States over the years. Today, the company operates out of additional offices in Rochester, Minnesota; Cedar Rapids, Iowa; Iowa City, Iowa; and Fort Lauderdale, Florida. This geographical expansion allows Knutson Construction to serve clients across a wider region, contributing to the company’s growth.
Market Sectors: Knutson Construction has diversified its services across various market sectors, including healthcare, education, commercial, industrial, and government projects. This diversification has helped the company to maintain steady growth by mitigating risks associated with market fluctuations in any single sector.
Strategic Partnerships: Knutson Construction has formed strategic partnerships with various industry organizations, such as the Associated General Contractors (AGC) of America and the Lean Construction Institute (LCI). These partnerships have allowed the company to stay informed about the latest industry trends, regulations, and best practices, enhancing its competitive advantage and contributing to its growth.
Emphasis on Sustainability: Knutson Construction has established itself as a leader in sustainable construction practices by incorporating environmentally friendly materials and energy-efficient technologies into its projects. The company’s commitment to sustainability has garnered recognition in the form of certifications, such as LEED and Green Globes, further contributing to its growth and expansion.
Awards and Recognitions: Knutson Construction’s dedication to excellence and innovation has earned them numerous awards and recognitions over the years. These accolades have helped to enhance the company’s reputation and attract new clients, driving its growth and expansion.
Workforce Development: The company’s growth can also be attributed to its focus on workforce development and employee retention. Knutson Construction invests in its employees by providing ongoing training, professional development opportunities, and fostering a supportive work environment. This emphasis on workforce development has helped the company to attract and retain highly skilled professionals, contributing to its growth and success.
Knutson Construction’s growth and expansion can be inferred from its geographical reach, diversification across market sectors, strategic partnerships, commitment to sustainability, awards and recognitions, and focus on workforce development. These factors have contributed to the company’s longevity and success in the construction industry.
Partnerships
Throughout its long history, Knutson Construction has formed strategic partnerships with various organizations to expand its reach and enhance its service offerings. These partnerships have been crucial in the company’s growth and success. Some of the key partnerships include:
Associated General Contractors (AGC) of America: Knutson Construction is a member of AGC, which is the leading association for the construction industry in the United States. This partnership allows the company to stay informed about the latest industry trends, regulations, and best practices.
Lean Construction Institute (LCI): The company is an active member of the LCI, which focuses on promoting lean construction principles and practices. This partnership enables Knutson Construction to implement lean construction methodologies that improve efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance overall project value.
Awards and Recognitions
Knutson Construction’s dedication to excellence and innovation has earned them numerous awards and recognitions throughout the years. Some of their most notable accolades include:
2020 Associated General Contractors (AGC) of Minnesota BUILD Minnesota Award: Knutson Construction received this award for their work on the MercyOne North Iowa Medical Center Emergency Department Expansion project. This prestigious award recognizes outstanding construction projects that demonstrate exceptional quality, safety, and innovation.
2019 Master Builders of Iowa (MBI) Masters Award: The company was honored with the Masters Award for their work on the University of Iowa Stanley Museum of Art project. This accolade is presented to projects that exemplify the highest level of craftsmanship, collaboration, and teamwork.
2018 Engineering News-Record (ENR) Midwest Best Project Award: Knutson Construction won this award for their involvement in the Hennepin County Medical Center Ambulatory Outpatient Specialty Center project in the Healthcare category. This recognition highlights the company’s commitment to delivering top-quality healthcare construction projects.
2017 Minnesota Construction Association (MCA) Award of Excellence: The company received this award for their work on the St. Olaf College Regents Hall of Natural and Mathematical Sciences project. This award is presented to projects that exhibit outstanding construction quality, innovation, and client satisfaction.
2016 Design-Build Institute of America (DBIA) Upper Midwest Region Merit Award: Knutson Construction was recognized with this merit award for their work on the Luther College Aquatic Center project, which was completed using the design-build delivery method.
Sustainability and Green Building Practices
Knutson Construction is committed to sustainability and green building practices, as evidenced by their involvement in environmentally friendly projects and their focus on implementing sustainable construction methods. The following points highlight key aspects of the company’s sustainability and green building practices:
Sustainable Project Certifications: Knutson Construction has completed several projects that have received green building certifications such as LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) and Green Globes. These certifications demonstrate the company’s commitment to constructing environmentally responsible and resource-efficient buildings.
Sustainable Construction Practices: The company strives to incorporate sustainable construction practices in its projects, which include using environmentally friendly materials, minimizing construction waste, and implementing energy-efficient technologies. By adopting these practices, Knutson Construction aims to reduce the environmental impact of its projects and promote long-term sustainability.
Lean Construction Methodologies: Knutson Construction is an active member of the Lean Construction Institute (LCI), which promotes lean construction principles and practices. Lean construction methodologies focus on increasing efficiency, reducing waste, and enhancing overall project value, all of which contribute to more sustainable construction processes.
Energy Efficiency: The company is dedicated to incorporating energy-efficient technologies and designs into its projects, such as high-performance HVAC systems, LED lighting, and building envelope improvements. These energy-saving measures not only reduce the environmental footprint of the buildings but also provide long-term cost savings for the clients.
Water Conservation: Knutson Construction prioritizes water conservation in its projects by implementing strategies such as efficient plumbing fixtures, water-efficient landscaping, and rainwater harvesting systems. These efforts help to reduce water consumption and minimize the impact on local water resources.
Indoor Environmental Quality: The company recognizes the importance of indoor environmental quality in sustainable construction and focuses on providing healthy and comfortable indoor spaces for building occupants. This is achieved through proper ventilation, the use of low-emitting materials, and the integration of natural lighting and views in building design.
Knutson Construction demonstrates a strong commitment to sustainability and green building practices through its involvement in certified sustainable projects, implementation of sustainable construction methods, and adherence to lean construction principles. By focusing on energy efficiency, water conservation, and indoor environmental quality, the company contributes to the development of more environmentally responsible and resource-efficient buildings.
Company Values and Culture
Knutson Construction’s company values and culture are centered around commitment to excellence, integrity, teamwork, and the well-being of its employees. The following points highlight key aspects of the company’s values and culture:
Commitment to Excellence: Knutson Construction is dedicated to delivering high-quality construction projects that meet and exceed client expectations. This commitment to excellence is reflected in the company’s numerous awards and recognitions, which showcase their dedication to superior craftsmanship, innovation, and client satisfaction.
Integrity: The company places a strong emphasis on ethical business practices and maintaining trust with clients, partners, and employees. This focus on integrity is evident in their long-standing reputation and their long-term relationships with clients and partners.
Teamwork: Knutson Construction values teamwork and collaboration, both internally and with project partners. The company fosters an inclusive and supportive work environment that encourages open communication, collaboration, and mutual respect among team members. This emphasis on teamwork is demonstrated by their successful completion of complex projects that require close coordination among various stakeholders.
Employee Well-being: The company is committed to the well-being and professional development of its employees. Knutson Construction provides ongoing training, professional development opportunities, and a supportive work environment that promotes work-life balance. The company’s focus on employee well-being contributes to its ability to attract and retain skilled professionals in the construction industry.
Safety: Knutson Construction prioritizes safety as a fundamental aspect of its company culture. The company has implemented comprehensive safety programs and protocols to protect its employees and ensure the safe completion of its projects. This commitment to safety is demonstrated by the company’s low incident rates and strong safety records.
Community Engagement: The company recognizes its responsibility to give back to the communities in which it operates. Knutson Construction actively participates in community initiatives and supports local organizations through charitable giving, volunteer work, and other philanthropic efforts. This involvement demonstrates the company’s commitment to making a positive impact on the communities it serves.
Community Involvement
Knutson Construction demonstrates a strong commitment to community involvement through various initiatives and partnerships that support local organizations and contribute to the well-being of the communities they serve. The following points highlight key aspects of the company’s community involvement:
Charitable Giving: Knutson Construction actively supports local and national charities through financial contributions. The company’s philanthropic efforts focus on causes such as education, healthcare, social services, and community development, which align with the company’s core values and mission.
Volunteer Work: Employees at Knutson Construction are encouraged to participate in volunteer activities and support community initiatives. The company fosters a culture of giving back by providing employees with opportunities to engage in community service projects and contribute their time and expertise to various causes.
Sponsorships: Knutson Construction sponsors local events and programs that promote community well-being and enrichment. These sponsorships help support community initiatives, foster collaboration, and create positive impacts on the communities where the company operates.
Partnerships with Non-Profit Organizations: The company partners with non-profit organizations to support their missions and provide assistance in areas such as housing, education, and healthcare. These partnerships allow Knutson Construction to leverage its expertise and resources to make a meaningful difference in the lives of people in the communities it serves.
Support for Local Businesses and Suppliers: Knutson Construction is committed to supporting local businesses and suppliers by sourcing materials and services from within the communities they serve. This practice not only helps to stimulate local economies but also contributes to the overall well-being of the communities.
In conclusion, Knutson Construction has established itself as a leading construction service provider in the United States with a rich history spanning over a century. The company’s diverse range of services, commitment to sustainable practices, and strategic partnerships have contributed to its long-standing success. Knutson Construction’s numerous awards and recognitions attest to the company’s dedication to excellence, innovation, and superior client satisfaction. As a family-owned business, the company’s strong foundation and leadership have positioned it for continued growth and success in the construction industry.
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
John Curry – CEO
Brendan Moore – President
Tom Leimer – Vice President / General Manager
Scott Hughes – Vice President/General Manager
Rick Allen – Vice President – Safety
Katie Montag – Vice President of Technology & Innovation
Ramona Wilson – Director of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
Jens Frederickson – Director of Operations
Micah Vainikka – Director of Preconstruction
Casey Sarver – Vice President Human Resources
Amy Schilling – Marketing Manager
Lindsey Garr – Senior Marketing Coordinator