Every great company has an origin story, but for one celebrating its centennial, there are many more stories woven into the fabric of its history. Click through the Kansas City skyline to discover key points that chronicle JE Dunn Construction’s incredible milestone.
For more of our ‘100 Years. 100 Stories.’ campaign, click ‘Stories’ in the main header above.
Every great company has an origin story, but for one celebrating its centennial, there are many more stories woven into the fabric of its history. Click through the years to discover key points that chronicle JE Dunn Construction’s incredible milestone.
For more of our ‘100 Years. 100 Stories.’ campaign, click ‘Stories’ in the main header above.
John Ernest (Ernie) Dunn’s philosophy was simple when the company first opened its doors in 1924: Treat people fairly and offer clients quality service at a fair price. This core belief still influences the company today, highlighting values Ernie passed down in a guiding letter to his sons before his passing.
During WWII, JE Dunn built a wartime facility at cost, inspired by founder Ernie Dunn’s patriotism. This act of philanthropic integrity gained national attention – including that of President Franklin D. Roosevelt – and laid the foundation for the company’s community impact.
William H. Dunn Sr. (Bill) has left an indelible mark on JE Dunn and Kansas City. Known as “Mr. Dunn” by employees, he took the helm as president and CEO in 1974. Bill’s heartfelt approach to work and service of others helped the company thrive on a culture of integrity and generosity. His legacy of philanthropy, family and service continues to inspire.
Giving back to the community has been a pillar of JE Dunn, first set forth by founder John “Ernie” Dunn Sr., expanded by his son, Bill Dunn Sr. and later grandson, Bob Dunn. In 1981, the Dunn Family Foundation was formed as a private charitable foundation through which the family’s legacy of generosity could continue to develop.
JE Dunn would become a billion-dollar business, Terry Dunn decided when he became CEO in 1989. With roughly $100 million at the time, it was a tall order but one that Terry would bring to fruition, growing the company from a small local firm to a billion-dollar business by 2000.
JE Dunn’s success is deeply rooted in building strong relationships, which influence both project execution and office structure. With now 26 offices nationwide, JE Dunn has established itself through local expertise and community involvement, demonstrating ongoing dedication to building lasting relationships and delivering high-quality work.
Few projects at the time could top the size and scope of this project, so large it warranted its own ZIP code. At the time, it was the largest single-office construction project ever undertaken in the U.S. with 21 buildings spanning 220 acres. The experiences and relationships formed during the project continue to shape company culture and construction approach, solidifying its industry legacy.
Near and dear to JE Dunn’s heart is local nonprofit, Operation Breakthrough. An organization focused on children in poverty, Bill Dunn Sr. introduced it to Kansas City’s philanthropic community, leading to JE Dunn becoming its building partner.
Underscoring JE Dunn’s dedication to human health and environmental sustainability, JE Dunn headquarters exemplifies innovation and commitment to workplace wellness through its WELL Gold certification, the first in Missouri.
The establishment of the ESOP program sought a new way to empower and reward its workforce as the company expanded. Embedded in the company’s culture, annual ESOP celebrations bring to the forefront its importance as an initiative which fosters a direct connection between employees and company performance, enhancing engagement and motivation across all levels.
A world-class team for a world-class project. Originally envisioned by Muriel McBrien Kauffman, the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts was an intimidating feat with its unusual design but one in which JE Dunn couldn’t say no to.
Gordon Lansford, the first non-Dunn family President and CEO of JE Dunn, emphasizes putting people first. With 28 years at the company, including 15 as CFO, he helped transition JE Dunn to employee ownership
As the company grew, so did the need for machinery, leading to the creation of “The Warehouse.” Rebranded as Blue Hat in 2013, it now operates as an independent division providing tools and solutions supporting both JE Dunn and external clients.
With 100 years in construction, JE Dunn knows buildings inside out. Ten years ago, Aptitude™: Intelligent Integration launched to offer customizable building connectivity solutions. Aptitude manages technology from design to commissioning, providing a single source of truth.
An initiative to expand the company’s reach amid rapid economic growth across the U.S. evolved into a distinct subsidiary known today as JE Dunn Capital Partners (JEDCP). Combining construction expertise with strong investor connections, JEDCP has deployed millions in diverse projects across key markets, focusing on quality relationships and strategic growth.
As Austin’s tallest structure with 66 stories and 2.1 million square feet, Sixth and Guadalupe saw completion in November 2022 after a challenging run of shortages and delays since the project’s start in 2019.
Nothing turns heads quite like seeing the word “billion” attached to a project. The largest foreign investment in the state, this Clarksville, Tennessee cathode plant from LG Chem is making history.
A company now in its fourth generation of family leadership is a rare thing, a testament to its founder and a growing landscape of people who have helped JE Dunn leave a mark through not just good business practices but by being good people.
