Kearney, Neb. — A young construction company in central Nebraska is making its mark not through flashy marketing, but by sticking to old-fashioned values: quality workmanship, clear communication and a willingness to tackle the jobs others overlook.
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Kremer Miller Construction, LLC was launched in June 2024 by brothers-in-law Joel Kremer and Jake Miller, who combined their backgrounds in construction, electrical work, distribution and logistics to build what they hope will become Kearney’s most trusted remodeling and contracting provider.
Kremer says striking out on their own was both risky and rewarding. “The way we see it, you can live your life working 9-to-5 for someone else, or take a risk and start your own company,” he explains. “Worst case scenario, you go back to working 9-to-5 for someone else. At least you won’t keep wondering what might have been.”
From the beginning, the pair wanted honesty to be their brand identity. “Contractors can get a bad reputation,” Miller says. “We want to change that narrative with our business. We believe we can run our business better.”
Rather than chasing massive commercial contracts, Kremer Miller found success by taking on the small- and medium-sized projects many larger firms refuse — everything from remodeling and interior upgrades to patio builds and window installations.
“So many people have a problem finding a contractor willing to take on small and medium jobs,” Miller says. “Those same jobs are keeping us busy, and that gives us the confidence we’re on the right track.”
Recently, the company expanded its capabilities by purchasing a mini excavator and dump trailer, allowing them to offer excavation and egress window services. “Residential remodeling is our bread and butter, and an excavator will enable us to expand our capabilities,” Miller notes.
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The equipment purchase was made possible through a GROW Nebraska grant, secured with assistance from the Nebraska Business Development Center (NBDC) and Odee Ingersoll, Kearney center director for America’s SBDC – Nebraska.
“I have a business degree, but running your own business is different than studying about it,” Miller admits. “Odee asked us the right questions and helped us stay focused. We needed a business plan and he provided a detailed template that we can use to build for the future. His experience has been extremely helpful.”
The company relies almost entirely on word-of-mouth. Satisfied customers post reviews, share photos and send friends their way.
“Referrals from customers who know us and trust us are the best way to find new customers,” Miller says. “They’ve seen what we can do.”
Looking ahead, both founders see plenty of room for expansion.
“Our main goals are to stay focused and work on multiple jobs so we can ultimately become the leading remodeler in the Kearney area,” Kremer says. “We’ll let the quality of our work show people why they should choose us.”
Originally reported by University of Nebraska, Omaha.
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