Ancon News

Integrated Design-Build™, 3-Part Video Series

Integrated Design-Build™, 3-Part Video Series

by | Apr 28, 2023 | Ancon News

 

Have you ever wondered how a construction project goes from an idea to a fully-realized structure?

 

Ancon Construction’s 2Min Drill on Integrated Design-Build™ walks you through every step. In this three-part series, you’ll hear from Ancon’s in-house architect, Ben, and in-house designers, Matt and Bryan, who share their insights on the value of having an in-house design team and the importance of understanding a client’s vision. From the initial programming phase to the power of 3D modeling, you’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of Ancon’s approach to bringing client visions to life. Watch these informative videos below to learn more about Ancon’s Integrated Design-Build™ process and how it can benefit your next construction project.

 

The Benefits of a Groundbreaking Event

The Benefits of a Groundbreaking Event

by | Apr 21, 2023 | Ancon News

A groundbreaking event is an essential part of any business launch, grand opening or refresh. It’s an opportunity to celebrate your success and build a strong foundation for your business.

 

Here are five reasons why having a groundbreaking event is important.

  1. Creates Awareness
    A groundbreaking event is an excellent way to generate buzz about your new business or product launch. It creates a sense of excitement and anticipation among potential customers, which can translate into increased foot traffic and sales.

2. Builds Credibility
By hosting a groundbreaking event, you are establishing your business as a reputable and trustworthy organization. It shows that you are committed to the success of your business and are willing to invest time and resources to make it successful.

3. Generates Media Attention
Organizing a groundbreaking event can attract media attention, which can lead to valuable publicity for your business. Local newspapers, TV stations, and online news outlets may cover the event, which can help spread the word about your business to a wider audience.

4. Creates Networking Opportunities
Hosting a groundbreaking event is an excellent opportunity to network with other business owners, community leaders, and potential customers. It can help you establish relationships that can be beneficial for your business in the long run.

5. Celebrates your Success
Enjoy the moment. This construction project might have been in the works for years. Take it all in, celebrate your success, and use this
opportunity to share your gratitude and excitement with others.

Contact us to learn more about how we can help you plan your groundbreaking event and provide you with a comprehensive checklist to ensure your event is flawless.

CLICK HERE to view and print flyer.

Cultivating Leaders

Cultivating Leaders

by | Apr 19, 2023 | Ancon News

Cultivating Leaders: Doug Bender’s 37-Year Journey with Ancon Construction.

 

Meet Doug Bender, a 37-year employee-owner of Ancon Construction. “I always knew I wanted to be in construction. My grandma called me “Noah” – Because I always messed with my grandpa’s stuff – taking things apart and putting them back together. She said I was going to build things – she was right.”

In April of 1986, Doug started his journey with Ancon Construction when he received an offer to work in the company’s carpentry division. He swiftly climbed up the ranks and took on a foreman position, eventually becoming a superintendent. The most significant project for Doug was the Sturgis Wesleyan Church, where he first worked as a foreman. He played an active role in all aspects of the project, from the foundation to the highest point of the roof. He described the project as a “nice building – but grueling work,” due to the temperatures reaching 110 degrees Fahrenheit in the hot summer of 1988.

Doug finds motivation in the challenges each new project brings. “You’re not always doing the same thing,” he said, adding that the challenges keep him sharp and engaged.

“Doug understands that different personalities exist and is very good at reading and dealing with the different types. That helps in having a cohesive crew which leads to a cohesive job with subcontractors,” shares, Lloyd, a leader Doug has admired over his years at Ancon Construction.

What Doug enjoys most, however, is growing aspiring craftsmen and leaders. “I’m not a teacher – I’m a farmer. Teaching isn’t what I do. I grow individuals,” he said. According to Doug, cultivating future craftsmen and leaders requires planting a seed, feeding, fertilizing, and nurturing until they understand. “Anyone can grow a weed. If you don’t take care of your crop, you’re not going to have one,” he added.

Doug’s experience at Ancon highlights the importance of mentorship in the workplace. His commitment to “cultivating” has helped Ancon Construction build a culture of excellence that attracts and retains talented individuals. It’s no wonder Doug has been with Ancon for 37 years and counting!

Doug’s story shows that it’s possible to find fulfillment and longevity in a career by constantly challenging oneself and passing on knowledge to the next generation. His journey with Ancon is a testament to the importance of mentorship in building a company’s culture and success. We wish Doug all the best in his future endeavors and look forward to seeing the fruits of his labor in the years to come.

The Importance of a Ribbon-Cutting Event

The Importance of a Ribbon-Cutting Event

by | Apr 6, 2023 | Ancon News

A ribbon-cutting event is an essential part of any business launch, grand opening or refresh. It’s an opportunity to celebrate your success and build a strong foundation for your business.

 

Here are five reasons why having a ribbon-cutting event is important.

  1. Creates Awareness
    A ribbon-cutting event is an excellent way to generate buzz about your new business or product launch. It creates a sense of excitement and anticipation among potential customers, which can translate into increased foot traffic and sales.

2. Builds Credibility
By hosting a ribbon-cutting event, you are establishing your business as a reputable and trustworthy organization. It shows that you are committed to the success of your business and are willing to invest time and resources to make it successful.

3. Generates Media Attention
Organizing a ribbon-cutting event can attract media attention, which can lead to valuable publicity for your business. Local newspapers, TV stations, and online news outlets may cover the event, which can help spread the word about your business to a wider audience.

4. Creates Networking Opportunities
Hosting a ribbon-cutting event is an excellent opportunity to network with other business owners, community leaders, and potential customers. It can help you establish relationships that can be beneficial for your business in the long run.

5. Celebrates a Milestone
Celebrate your significant milestone in your business journey with a ribbon-cutting event. It’s a chance to recognize the hard work and dedication that went into making your business or product launch a reality and is a great time to recognize and thank staff.

Contact us to learn more about how we can help you plan your ribbon-cutting event and provide you with a comprehensive checklist to ensure your event is flawless.

CLICK HERE to view and print flyer.

Construction 101

Construction 101

by | Mar 29, 2023 | Ancon News

WHAT TO ASK WHEN SELECTING A CONSTRUCTION PARTNER 

These questions should give you a good idea of the contractor’s experience, abilities, and approach to construction projects. By asking these questions, you can make a more informed decision about whether or not to hire them.

Consider asking the commercial contractor:

  • What is your experience with projects similar to mine?
  • How does your firm handle design? (If they say they are Design-Build, do they have in-house architects on staff or are they using a 3rd party architect? True Design-Build construction firms have in-house architects and design teams. Third-party architects significantly increase the risk for the owner compared to a firm that has an in-house design team.)
  • Can you provide references from previous clients, and may I contact them?
  • What is your company’s size, and what is your team’s capacity to handle my project?
  • Do you provide an onsite superintendent? If so, are they dedicated to just one project or do they float on multiple jobs? (A dedicated superintendent focused only on your project will keep the project on track and provides cost mitigation.)
  • Ask the general Contractor to walk through the initial meeting all the way to the final construction phase. (This is a good way to help you understand if their process is a good fit for you and your project.)
  • If we need a budget for the project, what is your company’s process for creating that budget?
  • What is your company’s safety record, and how do you ensure the safety of your workers, your subcontractors, and the public during construction?
  • How do you handle change orders, and what is your process for requesting additional funds or time?
  • What is your policy on communication with clients during the construction process, and who will be the primary point of contact?
  • What is your process for handling unforeseen issues or problems that arise during construction?
  • Are you licensed and insured, and can you provide proof of this?
  • What makes you different from your competitors?

Ancon Construction would love to answer these questions and learn more about your vision. A 100% Employee-Owned True Design-Build Construction firm since 1975.

 

Let’s get your project started…together.

CLICK HERE to view or print this as a flyer.

Pursuing Passion For Construction

Pursuing Passion For Construction

by | Mar 24, 2023 | Ancon News

Celebrating Lloyd’s Successful Career in Construction

 

“Ancon Construction has always been really good to me. They helped me grow my career,” shares Lloyd. His passion for construction has allowed him to work on many different projects over the years, each with its unique challenges.

From a young age, Lloyd had a clear vision of what he wanted to do with his life. His passion for construction was evident, and he pursued it after graduating from high school. He began his journey building residential houses and working a few other jobs before he was hired by Ancon Construction.

Starting as a carpenter, Lloyd’s hard work and dedication were quickly recognized by Andy Frech, the Founder of Ancon Construction, and other leaders. Andy’s management style and the company’s philosophy resonated with Lloyd, and he knew he had found the right place to grow his career.

“Lloyd had the respect of employees and subs because he had an honest and no-nonsense attitude but a good sense of humor and easy laugh which gave them the confidence to do their job well,” shares Andy Frech.

Among the projects that Lloyd remembers with pride are Edison Lakes and the Goshen High School pool project. Lloyd has tackled a variety of builds over his career, and each one has kept him motivated with their challenges.

As Lloyd approaches his 34-year anniversary with Ancon as an employee-owner, he reflects on his career and has some advice for the younger generation, “Know what you want out of life and work to achieve it!”