Ancon Construction Cultivates New Generation of Leaders in the Construction Industry

Ancon Construction Cultivates New Generation of Leaders in the Construction Industry

by | May 30, 2023 | Ancon News

Ancon Construction Cultivates New Generation of Leaders in the Construction Industry

 

Ancon Construction is pleased to announce the addition of three talented individuals to our team as summer interns, cultivating the next generation of construction industry leaders. Alberto Sanchez, Logan Heller, and Ben Erichsen joined us to gain valuable hands-on experience in their respective fields. Additionally, Andrew Lockwood, a returning intern, will continue his work with us this summer, gaining valuable experience.

Alberto Sanchez and Ben Erichsen, both students at Purdue University majoring in Construction Management, bring a wealth of enthusiasm and dedication to their roles. Both will be actively involved in the field, working closely with our seasoned Superintendents at job sites throughout the summer.

Logan Heller, a Ball State University student majoring in Architecture, is thrilled to join our Architecture Team. This internship will give him exposure to diverse projects that will refine his skills and strengths.

Furthermore, we are delighted to welcome back Andrew Lockwood, who is entering his junior year at Purdue University, returning to us for his second-year summer internship at Ancon Construction. This summer, Andrew will continue working closely with our seasoned Superintendents on various job sites, applying his expertise and further developing his skills.

“We are excited to have Alberto, Ben, Logan, and Andrew join us as interns this summer,” expressed Doug VonGunten, President of Ancon Construction. “At Ancon Construction, we provide opportunities for emerging professionals to grow in the construction and architecture industries. Our internship program is designed to cultivate the next generation of leaders by fostering hands-on experiences, mentorship, and exposure to real-world projects.”

We warmly welcome Alberto Sanchez, Logan Heller, Ben Erichsen, and Andrew Lockwood as they embark on their career journeys with Ancon Construction. We are excited to witness their contributions to Ancon Construction this summer. Their dedication and passion for their fields align perfectly with our company’s vision, and we eagerly anticipate the contributions they will make to our projects and the construction industry as a whole.

Ancon Construction Celebrates 2023 Leadership Academy Graduates

Ancon Construction Celebrates 2023 Leadership Academy Graduates

by | May 11, 2023 | Ancon News

Ancon Construction Celebrates 2023 Leadership Academy Graduates

 

Ancon Constructions is proud to share our two talented designers, Matt VanSoest and Bryan Baer, completed rigorous leadership academies this week and graduated. We are incredibly impressed with their dedication and hard work over the past nine months.

  • Matt had the opportunity to demonstrate his expertise and leadership skills by overseeing and mentoring teams who worked on initiatives improving the quality of life in Marshall County.
  • Bryan’s leadership team collaborated with Saving Grace Advocacy, a nonprofit organization in Elkhart. Their efforts will significantly impact the organization for years to come.

We are incredibly proud of their accomplishments. Congratulations to both of our designers on a job well done!

True Design-Build, 3-Part Video Series

True 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 True 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 True 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.