Mortenson Company Overview: Construction, Renewable Energy & Community Involvement

Founded: 1954
Founder: M. A. (Mort) Mortenson Sr.
Headquarters: 700 Meadow Lane North Minneapolis, MN 55422 USA
Phone: 763-522-2100
Number of employees: 6,000
Website: www.mortenson.com

Overview

Mortenson, officially known as M.A. Mortenson Company, is a leading construction and real estate development company in the United States. With its roots firmly planted in the Midwest, the company has grown over the years to establish a strong presence in multiple sectors, including energy and infrastructure, hospitality, healthcare, and education. Mortenson has consistently demonstrated a commitment to innovation, excellence, and partnership, which has earned it numerous awards and recognitions in the construction industry.

Company History:

Mortenson was founded in 1954 by M. A. (Mort) Mortenson Sr. as a general construction company in Minneapolis, Minnesota. From its humble beginnings with just four employees, the company has grown significantly, now employing thousands of professionals across the United States. Over the years, Mortenson has evolved from a local construction company to a renowned national player, offering a diverse range of services and expanding its footprint across the country. Mortenson is still a family-owned business, with David Mortenson currently serving as the Chairman, and Dan Johnson as the President and CEO.

Services:

Mortenson provides a comprehensive suite of services that cater to various industries and markets. These services include:

Construction: Mortenson offers general contracting, construction management, and design-build services. The company has a strong track record of delivering high-quality, cost-effective projects that are completed on time and within budget.

Real Estate Development: Mortenson’s real estate development services include site selection, land acquisition, project financing, leasing, and property management. The company is known for developing sustainable, energy-efficient projects that create long-term value for clients and communities.

Energy and Infrastructure: Mortenson is a leader in renewable energy and infrastructure construction, providing engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) services for wind, solar, energy storage, and high-voltage transmission projects. The company is also involved in the construction of electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure and smart grid technologies.

Facility Services: Mortenson’s facility services division offers a wide range of services to help clients maintain and optimize their facilities. These services include facility assessments, energy audits, retro-commissioning, and building automation system upgrades.

Projects

Here are some few examples of the many projects Mortenson has successfully completed over the years. The company’s diverse portfolio spans various sectors, including healthcare, education, sports and entertainment, commercial, and renewable energy, showcasing its expertise and commitment to delivering high-quality, innovative solutions for its clients.

U.S. Bank Stadium, Minneapolis, Minnesota: Mortenson served as the construction manager for the U.S. Bank Stadium, the home of the NFL’s Minnesota Vikings. Completed in 2016, the stadium has a seating capacity of 66,860 and features a transparent ETFE roof and operable doors, allowing for an outdoor feel while providing protection from the elements.

The Walt Disney Concert Hall, Los Angeles, California: Mortenson was the general contractor for this iconic concert hall designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry. Completed in 2003, the Walt Disney Concert Hall is home to the Los Angeles Philharmonic and is known for its exceptional acoustics and striking architecture.

PNC Park, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania: Mortenson served as the construction manager for PNC Park, which opened in 2001. The ballpark is home to the MLB’s Pittsburgh Pirates and has a seating capacity of 38,362. PNC Park is celebrated for its stunning views of the Pittsburgh skyline and Allegheny River, as well as its intimate seating arrangement and fan-friendly amenities.

The National Museum of African American History and Culture, Washington, D.C.: Mortenson, in a joint venture with Clark Construction, completed the construction of this significant museum in 2016. The museum, designed by renowned architect David Adjaye, is part of the Smithsonian Institution and features more than 400,000 square feet of exhibition space, showcasing the rich history and contributions of African Americans.

Colorado State University’s (CSU) Canvas Stadium, Fort Collins, Colorado: Mortenson completed the construction of this multipurpose stadium in 2017. The Canvas Stadium serves as the home for CSU’s football team and features a seating capacity of 41,000. This project marked a return to on-campus football games for the university after nearly 50 years.

Exempla St. Joseph Hospital, Denver, Colorado: Mortenson completed the construction of this 831,000 square foot hospital in 2014. The facility features 348 patient rooms, 21 operating rooms, and numerous outpatient services, offering state-of-the-art healthcare services to the Denver community.

The JW Marriott Minneapolis Mall of America, Bloomington, Minnesota: Mortenson was the developer and builder for this luxury hotel, which opened in 2015. The 342-room hotel is directly connected to the Mall of America, one of the largest shopping centers in the United States, and offers a range of high-end amenities for its guests.

The Advanced Photon Source Upgrade (APS-U) at Argonne National Laboratory, Lemont, Illinois: Mortenson completed the construction of this project in 2021, which involved the upgrade of an existing synchrotron X-ray facility. The upgraded facility enables scientists to conduct advanced research in various fields, including materials science, chemistry, and biology.

Aurora Solar Project, Minnesota: Mortenson provided engineering, procurement, and construction services for this 100 MW solar project, which was completed in 2017. The project consists of 16 separate solar sites spread across the state, making it one of the largest solar installations in Minnesota.

76 Commerce Center, Brighton, Colorado: Mortenson developed and built this 1.8 million square foot industrial park, which was completed in 2019. The park features state-of-the-art logistics and distribution facilities, attracting major tenants like Amazon and Walmart.

The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Campus, Seattle, Washington: Mortenson served as the general contractor for this global headquarters, which opened in 2011. The campus spans 12 acres and comprises over 900,000 square feet of office and meeting space. The facility was designed with sustainability in mind and achieved LEED Platinum certification.

The Phoenix Convention Center Expansion, Phoenix, Arizona: Mortenson led the construction of this major expansion project, which was completed in 2008. The project added over 600,000 square feet of meeting and exhibit space, making it one of the largest convention centers in the United States.

The Saint Alphonsus Regional Medical Center Expansion, Boise, Idaho: Mortenson completed the construction of this 240,000 square foot expansion project in 2012. The expansion included a new five-story patient tower, featuring 111 private patient rooms, and an emergency department expansion.

The Lurie Children’s Hospital, Chicago, Illinois: Mortenson, in partnership with Power Construction, completed the construction of this 1.25 million square foot facility in 2012. The 23-story hospital serves as the main pediatric medical center for the Chicago area, providing comprehensive healthcare services for children.

The Minnesota Twins’ Target Field, Minneapolis, Minnesota: Mortenson served as the construction manager for this modern ballpark, which opened in 2010. Target Field is home to the MLB’s Minnesota Twins and has a seating capacity of 39,504. The stadium has received numerous awards for its innovative design, fan experience, and sustainability features.

The Portland State University’s Fourth and Montgomery Building, Portland, Oregon: Mortenson completed the construction of this 175,000 square foot academic building in 2020. The facility serves as a hub for Portland State University, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland Community College, and the City of Portland, housing various academic programs and offices.

The Temple University Science Education and Research Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania: Mortenson completed the construction of this 247,000 square foot facility in 2014. The center houses cutting-edge research laboratories, classrooms, and collaborative spaces for Temple University’s science programs.

The San Francisco 49ers’ Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, California: Mortenson, in a joint venture with Turner Construction, completed the construction of this state-of-the-art stadium in 2014. Levi’s Stadium is home to the NFL’s San Francisco 49ers and has a seating capacity of 68,500.

The Amazon Spheres, Seattle, Washington: Mortenson completed the construction of these iconic structures in 2018. The Amazon Spheres serve as a unique workspace for Amazon employees, featuring over 40,000 plants from around the world, creating an indoor rainforest environment.

The Froedtert & the Medical College of Wisconsin Integrated Procedural Platform, Milwaukee, Wisconsin: Mortenson completed the construction of this 314,000 square foot facility in 2018. The facility houses state-of-the-art surgical and interventional radiology suites, enhancing patient care and improving operational efficiency.

Growth and Expansion

Mortenson’s growth and expansion over the years can be attributed to its commitment to innovation, excellence, and partnership, as well as its ability to adapt to changing market conditions and customer needs. The following information highlights the company’s growth and expansion journey:

Geographic Expansion: Mortenson started as a local construction company in Minneapolis, Minnesota, in 1954. Over the years, the company expanded its operations across the United States, establishing offices in major cities such as Chicago, Denver, Milwaukee, Phoenix, Portland, San Francisco, and Seattle. This geographic expansion allowed Mortenson to serve a diverse range of clients and markets.

Diversification of Services: Mortenson began as a general construction company, but over time, it diversified its service offerings to include construction management, design-build, real estate development, energy and infrastructure, and facility services. This diversification enabled the company to cater to various industries, including healthcare, education, hospitality, sports and entertainment, commercial, and renewable energy.

Focus on Innovation: Mortenson has consistently invested in innovation, adopting new technologies and construction methods to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and deliver better results for its clients. The company has embraced Building Information Modeling (BIM), virtual design and construction, prefabrication, and Lean construction principles, among other cutting-edge approaches. This focus on innovation has helped Mortenson remain competitive and grow its market share.

Strong Financial Performance: As a privately held, family-owned company, Mortenson’s financial information is not publicly available. However, the company’s consistent rankings among the top construction firms in the United States on the annual Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 400 Contractors list suggest strong financial performance and growth. In 2021, Mortenson ranked #16 on the ENR Top 400 Contractors list.

Workforce Growth: Mortenson’s workforce has grown significantly since its founding in 1954, when it had just four employees. Today, the company employs thousands of professionals across its various offices and projects in the United States.

Notable Projects: Mortenson’s growth and expansion can also be seen in the increasing scale and complexity of the projects it undertakes. The company has completed numerous high-profile projects in various sectors, such as the U.S. Bank Stadium, the National Museum of African American History and Culture, and the Amazon Spheres, to name a few.

Industry Recognition: Mortenson’s growth and success have been recognized by various industry organizations and publications. The company has received numerous awards and recognitions, such as the Associated General Contractors (AGC) Constructor Awards, Design-Build Institute of America (DBIA) Awards, and U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) LEED certifications.

Partnerships

Mortenson has established numerous partnerships with organizations, clients, and communities over the years. Some of the company’s notable partnerships include:

American Heart Association: Mortenson has been a long-time supporter of the American Heart Association, participating in various fundraising events and initiatives to raise awareness about heart disease and stroke prevention.

United Way: Mortenson is a strong supporter of United Way, an organization that aims to improve the lives of individuals and families through education, income stability, and health programs. The company encourages its employees to participate in United Way campaigns and contribute to its mission.

Industry Collaborations: Mortenson is actively involved in various industry organizations, such as the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC), the Design-Build Institute of America (DBIA), the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), and the Lean Construction Institute (LCI). These partnerships help Mortenson stay at the forefront of industry trends and best practices, as well as contribute to the development of innovative solutions for clients.

Awards and Recognition

Mortenson has received numerous awards and recognitions over the years, showcasing its commitment to excellence, innovation, and sustainability. Some of the company’s notable awards include:

Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 400 Contractors: Mortenson has consistently ranked among the top construction firms in the United States, according to the annual ENR Top 400 Contractors list. This recognition is based on the company’s annual construction revenue, which highlights its strong market presence and financial performance.

Associated General Contractors (AGC) Constructor Awards: Mortenson has been the recipient of multiple AGC Constructor Awards for various projects, demonstrating the company’s commitment to excellence in construction, project management, and client satisfaction.

Design-Build Institute of America (DBIA) Awards: The company has won several DBIA awards for its innovative design-build projects, which showcase its expertise in delivering integrated and efficient solutions that meet the unique needs of its clients.

U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) LEED Certifications: Mortenson has been involved in the construction of numerous LEED-certified projects, reflecting its commitment to sustainable and energy-efficient building practices. These projects have earned various levels of LEED certification, including Platinum, Gold, and Silver.

Best Places to Work: Mortenson has been recognized as one of the best places to work by various publications and organizations, such as the Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal and the Denver Business Journal. These accolades highlight the company’s focus on employee engagement, professional development, and work-life balance.

Sustainability and Green Building Practices

Mortenson has demonstrated a strong commitment to sustainability and green building practices throughout its history. The following information showcases the company’s focus on these areas:

LEED-Certified Projects: Mortenson has been involved in the construction of numerous projects that have achieved Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification from the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). LEED is a globally recognized green building certification program that evaluates projects based on their energy efficiency, water use, materials, indoor environmental quality, and other sustainability criteria. Some of Mortenson’s LEED-certified projects include:

The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Campus in Seattle, Washington (LEED Platinum)
The Minnesota Twins’ Target Field in Minneapolis, Minnesota (LEED Silver)
The Saint Alphonsus Regional Medical Center Expansion in Boise, Idaho (LEED Gold)

Renewable Energy Projects: Mortenson has a dedicated energy and infrastructure group that focuses on the engineering, procurement, and construction of renewable energy projects, such as wind, solar, and energy storage. The company has been involved in the construction of over 175 wind and solar projects, totaling more than 24,000 MW of clean energy capacity. Some of the notable renewable energy projects completed by Mortenson include:

The Aurora Solar Project in Minnesota (100 MW)
The Tehachapi Energy Storage Project in California (32 MW/8 MWh)
The Ocotillo Wind Energy Facility in California (265 MW)

Green Building Practices: Mortenson actively promotes sustainable construction practices, such as waste reduction, recycling, and the use of environmentally friendly materials. The company has also adopted advanced construction technologies and methods, such as Building Information Modeling (BIM), virtual design and construction, and prefabrication, which contribute to reducing the environmental impact of its projects.

Internal Sustainability Efforts: Mortenson has implemented various sustainability initiatives within its operations, such as reducing its office energy use, promoting employee wellness, and encouraging sustainable commuting practices. The company also supports the professional development of its employees in the area of sustainability, with many of its team members holding LEED Accredited Professional (AP) and other green building credentials.

Industry Recognition: Mortenson’s commitment to sustainability and green building practices has been recognized by various industry organizations and publications. The company has received numerous awards and recognitions related to sustainability, such as the USGBC’s LEED certifications and the Engineering News-Record (ENR) Green Sourcebook rankings.

Company Values and Culture

Mortenson’s company values and culture play a vital role in its overall success and have contributed to its reputation as a leading construction and real estate development firm. The following information highlights the company’s values and culture:

Core Values: Mortenson’s core values are the guiding principles that shape its organizational culture and business practices. These values are:

Trust: Mortenson places a strong emphasis on building trust and maintaining long-lasting relationships with its clients, partners, and team members.
Safety: The company is committed to ensuring a safe working environment for all its employees and subcontractors and prioritizing safety in all aspects of its operations.
Teamwork: Mortenson fosters a collaborative working environment, encouraging open communication, knowledge sharing, and cooperation among its team members.
Service: The company is dedicated to providing exceptional service to its clients, going above and beyond to meet their needs and exceed their expectations.
Responsibility: Mortenson believes in conducting its business ethically and responsibly, taking ownership of its actions and their impact on the environment and the communities it serves.
Innovation: The company promotes a culture of continuous improvement, embracing new technologies, ideas, and processes to deliver better results for its clients.

Employee Development: Mortenson is committed to the professional growth and development of its employees. The company offers various training programs, workshops, and resources to help its team members expand their skills, knowledge, and expertise. Mortenson also supports career advancement opportunities within the organization, promoting a culture of learning and growth.

Diversity and Inclusion: Mortenson values diversity and inclusion, recognizing the importance of a diverse workforce in driving innovation and business success. The company has implemented various initiatives to promote diversity and inclusion, such as employee resource groups, mentorship programs, and targeted recruiting efforts.

Sustainability: As mentioned earlier, Mortenson is dedicated to sustainable construction practices and environmental stewardship. This commitment to sustainability is reflected in the company’s values, culture, and business operations.

Community Involvement

Mortenson demonstrates a strong commitment to community involvement through its Mortenson Family Foundation, employee volunteerism, community partnerships, in-kind donations, disaster relief efforts, and support for local initiatives. These efforts highlight the company’s dedication to making a positive impact on the communities it serves and its desire to contribute to their overall well-being and success.

Mortenson Family Foundation: Established in 1988, the Mortenson Family Foundation is a private, family-led foundation that supports various charitable organizations, initiatives, and causes. The foundation focuses on issues related to global health, global development, and local community development. Through financial contributions and strategic partnerships, the Mortenson Family Foundation has positively impacted numerous communities across the United States and around the world.

Employee Volunteerism: Mortenson encourages its employees to engage in volunteer activities and give back to their communities. The company supports various volunteer programs, events, and initiatives, allowing its team members to contribute their time, skills, and resources to support local causes and organizations.

Community Partnerships: Mortenson actively partners with local businesses, organizations, and community groups on its construction and development projects. These partnerships create economic opportunities, foster community engagement, and contribute to the overall success of the projects. Additionally, Mortenson often works with local schools and educational institutions to promote career development and provide learning opportunities for students in the construction and engineering fields.

In-Kind Donations: Mortenson supports its communities by providing in-kind donations, such as construction materials, equipment, and labor, to local organizations and causes. These donations help address community needs and contribute to the overall well-being of the areas in which Mortenson operates.

Disaster Relief: Mortenson has been involved in disaster relief efforts in various communities impacted by natural disasters, such as hurricanes, floods, and earthquakes. The company has provided financial support, resources, and expertise to help with recovery and rebuilding efforts in affected areas.

Local Initiatives: Mortenson is actively involved in supporting various local initiatives and programs, such as affordable housing projects, community infrastructure improvements, and neighborhood revitalization efforts. These initiatives contribute to the overall quality of life in the communities where Mortenson operates.

In conclusion, Mortenson has established itself as a leading construction and real estate development company in the United States. Since its inception in 1954, the company has grown significantly, expanding its range of services and market presence. Mortenson’s commitment to innovation, excellence, and partnership has earned it numerous awards and recognitions and has helped it build lasting relationships with clients, employees, and communities. As a privately held, family-owned business, Mortenson continues to focus on its long-term strategy and values, enabling it to maintain a strong financial position and deliver exceptional results for its stakeholders.

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.