Our People, Their Story. Trenton’s Five Years of Growth

Our People, Their Story. Trenton’s Five Years of Growth

    

Our People, Their Story. Trenton’s Five Years of Growth

 

In December, Trenton celebrated five years with Ancon Construction — a milestone that reflects not only his commitment but also his journey of discovery and growth in the construction industry.

Before joining Ancon, Trenton worked in a CNC factory for five years. While he gave it a solid effort, he realized it wasn’t the right fit. “CNC just wasn’t for me,” he said. “I needed something more hands-on to keep me moving. Don [at Ancon] suggested I try construction, and I decided to go for it.”

Trenton admits that construction wasn’t always part of his plan. “I didn’t even know I wanted to be in construction until I stepped into it,” he shared. With no prior experience, Trenton entered the industry with curiosity and a willingness to learn. He credits much of his growth to simply asking questions and learning step by step on the job.

A turning point in Trenton’s journey came when he enrolled in the Associated Builders and Contractors of Indiana/Kentucky (ABC) apprenticeship program. “It helped me understand what construction is really about—from the ground up. It wasn’t just about doing the work, but knowing why and how things are built,” he explained. The program also instilled the importance of safety, especially when working with power tools and equipment.

Now a graduate of the ABC program, Trenton points to that achievement as his proudest moment at Ancon. “Graduating was a big one for me,” he said. “It was a lot of work, but it helped me become more confident and capable in my role.”

Over the years, Trenton’s role has evolved as he has learned the trade. He now takes on surveying responsibilities and handles tasks more independently. “I don’t rely on others as much as I used to,” he said. “One of my biggest accomplishments was doing ceiling grid and framing on my own—something I learned from a superintendent at Ancon.”

When asked what motivates him, Trenton says it’s the constant learning. “Every day is different. You think you know something, then the next day, there’s something new to figure out. That keeps it fun.”

One of his most memorable projects was Afdent Dental in Mishawaka. “That one had everything. It was all hands-on—we built temporary walls, a mezzanine, and ceiling supports for their dental equipment. It was a great learning experience.”

Trenton credits the people around him at Ancon Construction for shaping his journey. “Everyone brings something different to the table,” he said. “If you have a question or an idea, people are always willing to listen and help. It’s a great environment to grow in.”

When asked what advice he’d give to someone entering the field, Trenton keeps it simple: “Ask questions, and learn from the answers so you don’t have to ask them again.” He also emphasizes the importance of keeping an open mind. “You might think your way is best, but there’s always something to learn from someone else.”

Five years in, Trenton’s story is one of hard work, humility, and a drive to keep growing. And if the past five years are any indication, he’s just getting started.

About Ancon Construction:
Ancon Construction is a leading commercial design-build contractor offering services such as planning, architectural design, construction, remodeling, and maintenance. Headquartered in Goshen, Indiana, the company is 100% employee-owned and has been a cornerstone of the Michiana community’s architectural and construction landscape since 1975.

For more information about Ancon Construction, contact Amy Self, Ancon Construction’s Marketing Manager, at 574.533.9561, aself@anconconstruction.com, or visit anconconstruction.com.

Ancon Construction Recognized with Fairbanks Award for Beautification Efforts in Elkhart County

Ancon Construction Recognized with Fairbanks Award for Beautification Efforts in Elkhart County

Ancon Construction Recognized with Fairbanks Award for Beautification Efforts in Elkhart County

 

 

Ancon Construction is proud to announce that they are the recipient of the Fairbanks Award from the Greater Elkhart Chamber of Commerce. The award recognizes the company’s contribution to the beautification of Elkhart County through its newly completed corporate office at 2121 West Wilden Avenue in Goshen, Indiana.

Presented quarterly by the Chamber’s Beautification Council, the Fairbanks Award honors businesses and not-for-profit organizations that enhance the community through new construction, renovations, and/or landscaping. Ancon was selected for its transformation of the former Furnitureland building into a modern, 24,000-square-foot headquarters — demonstrating the company’s commitment to revitalizing existing structures with thoughtful design and long-term community impact.

Kathy Cardwell, Chief Administrative Officer with the Greater Elkhart Chamber, shares, “Ancon Construction was chosen by the Greater Elkhart Chamber’s Business Recognition Council to be the Fairbanks Quarterly award recipient for their beautiful, new facility that has helped to beautify our Elkhart County Community.”

“We are honored to receive the Fairbanks Award,” said Doug VonGunten, President of Ancon Construction. “Having been part of this community for 50 years, we take pride in creating spaces that not only serve our clients but also enrich our communities. This new headquarters is especially meaningful to me — it’s a project I’ve dreamed about for years. It represents much more than just renovating a building; it reflects who we are as Employee-Owners and showcases Ancon’s Integrated Design-Build™.”

“Whether transforming our own space or revitalizing buildings, our team enjoys breathing new life into existing structures. These projects reflect the core of our day-to-day work and our belief in reinvesting in the communities we call home. They also embody our design philosophy and set a high standard for adaptive reuse in commercial construction. We’re proud to create spaces where people can come together and thrive.”

This recognition highlights Ancon’s Integrated Design-Build™ project delivery method. Our in-house architect and design team approach every project with a process and people flow mindset. Our new office is a testament to how relationship-driven design can create modern, engaging workspaces that increase employee retention and create the type of environment that attracts top talent.

As a 100% Employee-Owned company, we are personally invested in every step, championing your vision to deliver buildings that inspire, perform, and endure.

About The Greater Elkhart Chamber of Commerce
The mission of the Chamber is to be the leading resource for making connections that foster collaboration, which serves and promotes efforts to strengthen the Greater Elkhart business community. www.elkhart.org

About the Fairbanks Award
The Greater Elkhart Chamber’s Business Recognition Council presents the Fairbanks Award annually to four businesses who exemplify innovative and extraordinary beautification efforts to enhance our community. This award recognizes businesses and not-for-profit entities making outstanding beautification efforts, either through new construction or renovations, in our community. This could be beautification of existing property, structure, or landscaping, or remodeling to enhance the overall appearance of the property.

About Ancon Construction: 
Ancon Construction is a leading commercial design-build contractor offering services such as planning, architectural design, construction, remodeling, and maintenance. Headquartered in Goshen, Indiana, the company is 100% employee-owned and has been a cornerstone of the Michiana community’s construction and architectural landscape since 1975.

For media inquiries or further information, please contact Amy Self, Ancon Construction’s Marketing Manager, at 574.533.9561, aself@anconconstruction.com, or visit anconconstruction.com.

Our People, Their Story. Ben’s Journey in Architecture

Our People, Their Story. Ben’s Journey in Architecture

 

Our People, Their Story. Ben’s Journey in Architecture

Experience, meaningful connections, and a deep passion for architecture have shaped Ben’s path at Ancon Construction. A 2009 graduate of Judson University with a Master of Architecture, he earned his licensure in 2012. After working at two architecture firms in the Chicagoland area, he felt the pull to return home to northern Indiana.

“I wanted to be near family,” Ben recalls. “Through a mutual connection with Ryan Kring, Ancon’s VP of Business Development, I learned about this opportunity, and it was a great fit.”

Since joining Ancon five+ years ago, Ben has witnessed the transformation of the design department. “There has been a shift toward a more unified and strategic approach that has significantly improved project outcomes,” he explains. “Now, collaboration is seamless, elevating both our workflow and the client experience. It’s about pushing each other — and our clients — toward the best results.”

Ben has also championed a creative design philosophy approach. “Many companies treat design as a drafting service. Our culture at Ancon is to listen to fully understand our clients’ vision, operations, limitations, and how to enhance their efficiency and culture through design.”

Ancon’s own corporate office exemplifies this philosophy. “The space has transformed our culture,” Ben notes. “In Chicagoland, the workplace environment was a big priority for design projects. Here in northern Indiana, where manufacturing dominates, it’s often overlooked — but it has a huge impact.” The Ancon Construction Corporate office is a testament to maximizing the budget without sacrificing quality. “As an employee-owned company, we were intentional with every design choice. That same mindset guides how we deliver value to our clients.”

Employee ownership has been another revelation for Ben. “At first, I didn’t fully grasp its significance,” he admits. “But seeing the level of investment from the field staff and realizing how it impacts our stock price and retirement — it’s powerful.” The model not only benefits employees but also enhances project outcomes, ultimately benefiting clients as well.

Among Ben’s most memorable projects, Ancon’s office holds a special place, but Shady Creek Winery was equally rewarding. “The timber structure, the phased growth — it has become a true destination. The owner initially envisioned a modest addition, but we showed them the bigger possibilities.” Another standout is The Ice Box expansion. “Revitalizing an aging structure and turning it into a lasting community asset — that’s the kind of work that leaves a mark.”

As Ben looks ahead, he remains committed to pushing the boundaries of design and collaboration. “We’re not just constructing buildings; we’re creating environments that shape experiences, culture, and productivity. That’s what makes this work exciting — every project has the potential to be transformative.”

With a dedicated team, a spirit of collaboration, and the strength of employee ownership, Ben and Ancon Construction continue to make an impact, both within their own walls and across the many projects they bring to life.

About Ancon Construction:
Ancon Construction is a leading commercial design-build contractor offering services such as planning, architectural design, construction, remodeling, and maintenance. Headquartered in Goshen, Indiana, the company is 100% employee-owned and has been a cornerstone of the Michiana community’s architectural and construction landscape since 1975.

For more information about Ancon Construction, contact Amy Self, Ancon Construction’s Marketing Manager, at 574.533.9561, aself@anconconstruction.com, or visit anconconstruction.com.

Our People, Their Story. Meet Rodney – Concrete Superintendent

Our People, Their Story. Meet Rodney – Concrete Superintendent

 

Our People, Their Story: Meet Rodney – A Concrete Superintendent at Ancon Construction

 

Celebrating his 25th year with Ancon Construction as of the first of November 2024, Rodney has been a cornerstone in our concrete team since joining in 1999. Rodney joined Ancon with a focus on developing his craftsmanship and leadership skills, earning him a promotion to Foreman in 2003. Now a Concrete Superintendent, Rodney brings expertise backed by a range of certifications, including Certified Flatwork Finisher, Green Construction, Pervious Concrete Installer, OSHA and Leadership Training.

Over the years, Rodney has worked on impactful projects, including the Eddy Street Commons in South Bend. Outside of work, he and his wife, Tina, enjoy life in Edwardsburg, MI. He and Tina have four children: Quinten, Lucas, Jacob, and Samantha. In his spare time, Rodney also enjoys fishing, boating, and a baseball card collection he has maintained since 1970.

About Ancon Construction:
Ancon Construction is a leading commercial design-build contractor offering services such as planning, architectural design, construction, remodeling, and maintenance. Headquartered in Goshen, Indiana, the company is 100% employee-owned and has been a cornerstone of the Michiana community’s architectural and construction landscape since 1975.

For more information about Ancon Construction, contact Amy Self, Ancon Construction’s Marketing Manager, at 574.533.9561, aself@anconconstruction.com, or visit anconconstruction.com.

Habitat for Humanity of St. Joseph County Broke Ground on New Homeownership Training Center and Main Office

Habitat for Humanity of St. Joseph County Broke Ground on New Homeownership Training Center and Main Office

Pictured left to right: Andy Place Sr., Place Builders President; Matt Krause, Ancon Construction Superintendent; Matthew VanSoest, Ancon Construction Lead Project Designer; Jim Williams, President and CEO of Habitat for Humanity; Doug VonGunten, Ancon Construction President; Mayor Dave Wood, City of Mishawaka; Jeff Rea, South Bend Area Chamber of Commerce President; Tim Schrock, Ancon Construction Project Manager.

 

Habitat for Humanity of St. Joseph County Broke Ground on New Homeownership Training Center and Main Office

Ancon Construction is proud to partner with Habitat for Humanity of St. Joseph County on its new Homeownership Training Center and Main Office, located at 524 E. McKinley Ave, Mishawaka. The groundbreaking ceremony took place on Thursday, October 17.

The project involves an 11,500-square-foot adaptive reuse of a former medical office building, featuring a complete interior overhaul and a transformative exterior renovation. The redesign aims to restore the building’s original 1961 architectural features while modernizing its exterior with new entrance canopies. Inside, the two-story facility will include offices, open workspaces, conference rooms, lounge areas, a board room, an outdoor patio space, and a 60-person training room.

“Ensuring all interior work and communal spaces have access to natural daylight is achieved through the building’s ribbon window features on both the north and south facades,” explained lead project designer Matthew VanSoest. Habitat for Humanity’s national branding and color palette will be incorporated into the interior, alongside unique wood screen walls and feature walls that symbolize the non-profit’s work in building homes.

Doug VonGunten, President of Ancon Construction, which is leading the renovation, expressed the company’s appreciation for the opportunity to partner with Habitat for Humanity: “On behalf of all the Employee Owners at Ancon Construction, we are deeply grateful for the opportunity to partner with Habitat of Humanity of St. Joseph County to design and renovate their new corporate office. Habitat’s mission closely aligns with our core values here at Ancon, and it has been a true privilege to be entrusted with this project. We look forward to transforming this building so that Habitat can continue to transform St. Joseph County.”

The new Training Center is expected to serve 750 to 1,000 community members annually, offering educational programs on budgeting, credit improvement, fire and home safety, estate planning, and home maintenance. “This 75-person Training Center reflects our commitment to empowering individuals with the knowledge and skills needed for successful homeownership,” said Jim Williams, President & CEO of Habitat for Humanity of St. Joseph County. “With the generous support of donors like Key Bank and the Judd Leighton Foundation, this debt-free facility will allow us to focus on building more attainable workforce housing.”

The building is expected to be completed in the Spring of 2025 and is strategically located adjacent to the new fire station, making it a prominent addition to the ongoing improvements along the McKinley Corridor, which will include the widening of McKinley Avenue.

For more information, please contact Amy Self, Ancon Construction’s Marketing Manager, at 574.533.9561, aself@anconconstruction.com, or visit anconconstruction.com.

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About Ancon Construction: 
Ancon Construction is a leading commercial design-build contractor offering services such as planning, architectural design, construction, remodeling, and maintenance. Headquartered in Goshen, Indiana, the company is 100% employee-owned and has been a cornerstone of the Michiana community’s construction and architectural landscape since 1975.

For media inquiries or further information, please contact Amy Self, Ancon Construction’s Marketing Manager, at 574.533.9561, aself@anconconstruction.com, or visit anconconstruction.com.