Our People, Their Story. Steve’s Eleven-Year Journey

Our People, Their Story. Steve’s Eleven-Year Journey

by | Aug 14, 2025

 

OUR PEOPLE, THEIR STORY. STEVE’S ELEVEN-YEAR JOURNEY

For more than 11 years, Steve has been a steady and reliable presence on job sites as a Superintendent for Ancon Construction. With a background in architecture, experience in the military, and a long-standing interest in construction, Steve’s journey reflects a genuine appreciation for the building process.

Steve’s journey into construction began in an unexpected place, Alaska! After serving in the U.S. Army, he enrolled in architecture school at the University of Alaska in Anchorage. “Most people don’t know I lived in Alaska for a year,” he says with a smile. “That’s where I started my architectural studies before finishing up back in Fort Wayne.” His education eventually led to an internship at a local construction company, where he was asked to step out of the office and run a job site due to a shortage of superintendents. That experience changed everything. “I never looked back. I realized I didn’t want to sit behind a desk. I loved being in the field, seeing buildings come to life.”

Before joining Ancon, Steve ran his own residential remodeling business and worked as a superintendent for commercial projects, gaining experience on everything from restaurants to large warehouses. He eventually made the move to Ancon after a call from John Place.

“I love what I do,” Steve says. “It just comes naturally to me. When I walk onto a job site, I can see the structure behind the walls: the studs, the electrical, the flashing. It’s like x-ray vision.” His architectural background gives him a unique ability to spot potential issues before they become real problems, an asset on every project.

Steve has taken on some of Ancon’s more challenging and distant jobs, willingly traveling beyond the usual radius. “A lot of our younger superintendents have families,” he explains. “I don’t mind the long drives if it means they can be home with their kids.” That mindset reflects his commitment to the team and to Ancon’s values.

When asked about favorite or memorable projects, Steve reflects on both the tough ones and the rewarding ones. “Eurofins was one of my favorites,” he shares. “It had a complex mechanical system, required cutting the floor open for an elevator shaft, and brought a lot of challenges. The owner was great to work with, and that makes all the difference.”

Being part of an employee-owned company also means a lot to Steve. “I don’t think everyone realizes how special that is,” he says. “There’s power in knowing you have ownership in the company’s success. It impacts all of us.”

After more than a decade at Ancon, Steve is still energized by the work. “I love being there at the start of a project, making sure everything is level, square, and done right from the beginning. If you get the foundation right, the whole project goes smoother. That’s where I thrive.”

His advice for anyone new to commercial construction? “Love what you like to do. If you don’t, it will show. And listen, really listen. That’s how you understand people and solve problems.”

Steve’s story isn’t about titles or recognition; it’s about doing work that matters, helping owners bring their ideas to life, and supporting an employee-owned team that values collaboration and quality. After more than a decade with Ancon, he’s still finding purpose in the process and pride in a job well done.

 

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, [email protected], or visit anconconstruction.com.

Ancon Construction Marks a Milestone as One of Only 182 ESOPs in Indiana

Ancon Construction Marks a Milestone as One of Only 182 ESOPs in Indiana

by | Jun 20, 2025

Celebrating 50 Years of Commercial Construction:
Ancon Construction Marks a Milestone as One of Only 182 ESOPs in Indiana

In 2025, Ancon Construction proudly celebrates 50 years of building the future of communities across Northern Indiana and beyond. As we mark this half-century milestone, we are equally proud to celebrate another defining feature of who we are: Ancon Construction has been a 100% Employee-Owned company since 1999, a distinction that sets us apart in more ways than one.

While there are thousands of construction firms across the country, very few are structured as Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs). In fact, according to the National Center for Employee Ownership (NCEO), there are only 182 ESOPs in the entire state of Indiana, and Ancon Construction is one of them.

Being an ESOP means more than just shared ownership; it means shared vision, shared responsibility, and shared success. Every employee at Ancon is an owner, invested not only in the quality of our projects but also in the company’s long-term growth. This ownership mindset drives the pride, performance, and partnership our clients have come to expect.

Since 1975, Ancon has grown into a regional leader in the construction industry, utilizing our proven Integrated Design-Build project delivery approach. This method has been delivering innovative commercial and industrial spaces since 1975. From office and dental to manufacturing plants, nonprofits, and more, we bring our clients’ visions to life with a collaborative approach rooted in transparency, relationships, and craftsmanship.

As we celebrate five decades of excellence, we also look forward to the next 50 years, powered by a team of dedicated employee-owners who are committed to building smarter, stronger, and together.

Here’s to 50 years of legacy and leadership. Here’s to ownership. Here’s to shared success!

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, [email protected], or visit anconconstruction.com.

Our People, Their Story. Bryan’s Story with Ancon Construction

Our People, Their Story. Bryan’s Story with Ancon Construction

by | Feb 22, 2025

 

Our People, Their Story: Bryan’s Story with Ancon Construction

Bryan’s journey with Ancon Construction spans more than a decade, beginning with a high school internship and evolving into an architectural design role. Reflecting on the past five years as an Employee Owner, Bryan describes his experience as one of both personal and professional growth.

Bryan’s path into the construction industry started at Goshen High School, where he participated in the ICE (Internship Cooperative Experience) program. He spent his entire senior year interning at Ancon, working mornings throughout the fall and spring semesters. After graduating, he pursued architecture at Ball State University and returned to Ancon during summer breaks. Upon earning his degree, he took a design role at Jayco, where he spent five years creating luxury fifth-wheel RVs.

When an opportunity arose at Ancon Construction on their design team, he returned. Since then, he notes this change within the company: “We’re busier than ever, and the type of projects we take on have become more refined,” he explains.

Bryan has always known he wanted to be a designer in an environment that continuously challenges him. One of the aspects he values most is Ancon’s employee ownership model. “Being an Employee Owner is a game changer,” he says. “It’s a massive financial perk, but more importantly, it creates a culture of shared investment and accountability.”

Among his many projects, the Ice Box expansion stands out as the most complex. “It’s not just a skating rink,” he explains. “We had to integrate old and new spaces seamlessly while raising the existing lobby floor by one and a half feet.” The intricacy of the design and the problem-solving required made it a memorable challenge. Another highlight of his career is Shady Creek Winery, a project that was both visually stunning and personally fulfilling. “Attending the ribbon cutting and seeing people’s reactions to the finished space was surreal,” he recalls.

What keeps Bryan engaged in his role is the variety of projects Ancon takes on. “Every day is different. One day, I’m working on programming; the next, I’m developing high-quality renderings for a different project.” Over the years, his role has evolved, transitioning from being behind the scenes to taking on more responsibility. “I now serve as the primary design contact on select projects, collaborating closely with the project manager and superintendent to ensure everything runs smoothly.”

One of Bryan’s proudest moments has been seeing the projects he designed come to life, from the initial design phases to the grand openings. “It’s incredibly rewarding to witness the impact our work has on communities, whether it’s our office, or another landmark project.”

For those starting their careers in design or construction, Bryan’s advice is simple: “Buy in, ask for help, and don’t be afraid to take risks. That’s the best way to grow.” He believes success in his role comes from teamwork and a willingness to learn. “I’ve always strived to absorb as much knowledge as possible from experts in different areas.” At Ancon, he continues this approach, building strong relationships with superintendents and field staff.

The collaborative environment at Ancon makes it a unique place to work, with a culture that encourages growth and innovation. “We all contribute to the success of our projects, and that makes a huge difference.”

As Bryan looks ahead, he’s excited about Ancon’s future and the projects to come. His journey is a testament to continuous learning and the impact of a company that invests in its people.

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, [email protected], 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

by | Oct 18, 2024

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, [email protected], 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, [email protected], or visit anconconstruction.com.

The Ground Has Been Broken on Ryan’s Place “Home for Healing Hearts” Project.

The Ground Has Been Broken on Ryan’s Place “Home for Healing Hearts” Project.

by | Oct 16, 2024

Pictured Left to Right: Lindsey Diener-Locke, Ryan’s Place Program Director; Mathew VanSoest, Ancon Construction Lead Project Designer; Doug VonGunten, Ancon Construction President; Eunice Munn; Rex and Nancy Gleim; Aileac Deegan, Ryan’s Place President and CEO; Bill Purcell, President of Crossroads United Way; State Rep. Joanna King, Glen Kauffmann, Ancon Construction Project Manager.

The Ground Has Been Broken on Ryan’s Place “Home for Healing Hearts” Project.

Ancon Construction is proud to announce the groundbreaking of Ryan’s Place “Home for Healing Hearts” project. This 18,000-square-foot facility on Regent Street in Goshen will serve as the new home for Ryan’s Place, a vital organization dedicated to supporting grieving families. The building will provide a safe, nurturing space for children, teens, and families, offering grief support programs in a purpose-built environment.

“On behalf of the Ancon Employee-owners, I am both proud and grateful to partner with Ryan’s Place in designing and constructing their new building, “Home for Healing Hearts,” shares the President of Ancon Construction, Doug VonGunten. Breaking ground on this project marks a significant milestone for Ryan’s Place to have their own building to continue their mission of supporting grieving children and their families.”

Aileać Deegan, President and CEO of Ryan’s Place, expressed her excitement about the project: “This is a promise to the community—a dedicated space for grieving families to heal and ensure we can continue offering our vital services for years to come. Every child, teen, and family who walks through our doors feels seen, supported, and empowered in their grief journey.”

Key features of the “Home for Healing Hearts” include specialized rooms for art, high-energy activities, music therapy, and theater, all designed to meet the diverse needs of grieving families. The building will maximize natural light and create a warm, welcoming atmosphere that feels more like a home than an office, fostering a sense of community and connection.

“Throughout the design process and through case study research of other successful centers around the country, we acknowledged that the built environment has a direct relationship to the variety of ways people grieve. Sensory design, lighting, material use, and color are all direct variables we had to consider,” stated Ancon Construction’s lead project designer Matthew VanSoest.

“The ‘Home for Healing Hearts’ will be a lasting symbol of our commitment to the community,” said Deegan. “It allows us to reach even more grieving children and families, ensuring no one has to navigate their grief journey alone.”

For more information, please contact Amy Self, Ancon Construction’s Marketing Manager, at 574.533.9561, [email protected], or visit anconconstruction.com.

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About Ryan’s Place: Ryan’s Place was founded in 2002 to fill the gap in grief support for children, teens, and families after the loss of a loved one. Named in honor of Ryan Gleim, who died in 1992, the center was inspired by the need identified by Ryan’s family and local therapists. Today, Ryan’s Place offers a safe and supportive environment for over 1,000 individuals each year through various grief support programs.

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, [email protected], or visit anconconstruction.com.