History

Companies don’t build … People build. This has been the hallmark of J.H. Findorff & Son Inc. since its inception in 1890 when a young carpenter named John Findorff seized the opportunity and began a carpentry contracting company in Madison, Wisconsin.

The firm's first contract was building and installing the woodwork and cabinetry for the University of Wisconsin's Armory or "Red Gym". This began a long and continuing tradition of Findorff building many of Wisconsin's most notable structures.

In 1904, J. H. Findorff built a new planing mill, lumber yard and company office at the corner of South Bedford and West Wilson Streets - the location the company has retained for more than 100 years.

Findorff incorporated in 1946 as J. H. Findorff & Son Inc. - the firm's current name. As Madison grew more through the 50's and 60's, Findorff grew as well. It had become one of the largest construction companies in the Midwest and was acknowledged by a national trade magazine as one of the 50 oldest successful construction companies in the nation.

Findorff became active in the Milwaukee market in the early 1970's by serving as Construction Manager for the Medical College of Wisconsin. Other major Milwaukee projects would follow including Froedtert Memorial Lutheran Hospital, the Grand Avenue Parking Ramp, the Henry Reuss Federal Plaza and the Pettit National Ice Center.

Today, Findorff is an award-winning company with leadership provided by executives Curt Hastings, Rich Lynch, Dan Petersen, Mike Dillis, Dave Beck-Engel and Tim Stadelman. As the company completes its 118th year in operation, we remain in the forefront of the construction industry.