Poettker Construction Celebrates 45 Years of Family Legacy and Industry Leadership

Poettker Construction Company, a family-run firm with deep roots in Illinois, is celebrating 45 years in the construction industry. Since its founding in 1980, the company has evolved into a $400 million enterprise with a growing presence in both the Midwest and Southeast, providing construction management, design-build, and general contracting services across diverse markets.

Reflecting on the company’s history and milestones, Keith Poettker, chairman and CEO, said, “Our accomplishments over the past 45 years reflect Poettker’s unwavering commitment to excellence, community engagement, and strategic growth in the Midwest and Southeast regions.”

From a modest start in Breese, Illinois, Poettker Construction has expanded its reach nationwide. The company’s 2019 expansion into Charlotte, North Carolina, signaled a major turning point. Since then, Poettker has been recognized as one of the largest general contractors in the Charlotte area for three consecutive years.

In its home state, Poettker continues to thrive, consistently ranking among the top 10 general contractors in St. Louis and as one of the largest businesses in the Metro East region.

Founded by Charles Poettker, the company remains family-owned and operated, with second- and third-generation employees actively involved in its daily operations. More than 88% of its work stems from long-standing relationships with repeat clients, including Walmart, Ameren, Planet Fitness, Continental Tire, regional developers, public agencies, and educational institutions.

“Our employees are an extension of the Poettker family and the secret sauce that keeps the business going and growing,” said Ryan Poettker, president of Poettker Construction. “Our company’s average employee tenure is 10 years, and many of our employees are second and third-generation workers – some have been with us for four decades – with deep family ties to the company’s inception.”

Safety and quality remain cornerstones of Poettker’s operations. The company has received numerous Construction Safety Awards from AGC Missouri, Carolinas AGC, Central Illinois Builders of AGC, and the Southern Illinois Builders’ Association. Nationally, Poettker has been recognized as an Accredited Quality Contractor and a Top Performer by Associated Builders and Contractors.

Beyond its construction achievements, Poettker is also deeply committed to workforce development and employee growth. The company has been repeatedly named a Best Place to Work and supports employee advancement through skills training, STEAM initiatives, and its NextGen program, which promotes careers in construction, engineering, trades, and safety.

Giving back has always been a part of Poettker’s culture. Over the years, the firm has supported more than 50 nonprofit organizations through donations, volunteering, and advocacy. A flagship initiative, the Annual Golf Classic, has raised over $340,000 for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwestern Illinois (BBBSIL) since 2014.

Most recently, Poettker partnered with Dream On 3 Carolinas, an organization that fulfills sports dreams for youth with life-altering health challenges. In 2024, the company’s first Southeast Charity Clay Shoot and gala raised more than $121,000 for the cause.

“‘Our quality relationships build your quality projects’ has been our company’s mission statement since the beginning,” said Keith Poettker. “That statement has helped shape our approach as employers, business partners, and community advocates, and I think our father would be exceptionally proud of our accomplishments while remaining true to our family-first culture.”

The company’s 45th anniversary celebration will officially begin on June 26 with the unveiling of a commemorative logo and launch of a redesigned website. Throughout July, jobsite luncheons will be hosted to honor employees and highlight longstanding client partnerships.
Poettker Construction’s continued growth is fueled by its emphasis on building lasting relationships and maintaining a family-centered culture. As it looks toward the future, the firm remains focused on innovation, community impact, and workforce investment. With nearly half a century of experience and a legacy of leadership, Poettker is poised to continue shaping the built environment for generations to come.

Originally reported by Ground Break Carolinas.