Ancon Construction Recognized with Fairbanks Award for Beautification Efforts in Elkhart County

Ancon Construction Recognized with Fairbanks Award for Beautification Efforts in Elkhart County

by | May 7, 2025 | ANCON News, Ancon News

Ancon Construction Recognized with Fairbanks Award for Beautification Efforts in Elkhart County

 

 

Ancon Construction is proud to announce that they are the recipient of the Fairbanks Award from the Greater Elkhart Chamber of Commerce. The award recognizes the company’s contribution to the beautification of Elkhart County through its newly completed corporate office at 2121 West Wilden Avenue in Goshen, Indiana.

Presented quarterly by the Chamber’s Beautification Council, the Fairbanks Award honors businesses and not-for-profit organizations that enhance the community through new construction, renovations, and/or landscaping. Ancon was selected for its transformation of the former Furnitureland building into a modern, 24,000-square-foot headquarters — demonstrating the company’s commitment to revitalizing existing structures with thoughtful design and long-term community impact.

Kathy Cardwell, Chief Administrative Officer with the Greater Elkhart Chamber, shares, “Ancon Construction was chosen by the Greater Elkhart Chamber’s Business Recognition Council to be the Fairbanks Quarterly award recipient for their beautiful, new facility that has helped to beautify our Elkhart County Community.”

“We are honored to receive the Fairbanks Award,” said Doug VonGunten, President of Ancon Construction. “Having been part of this community for 50 years, we take pride in creating spaces that not only serve our clients but also enrich our communities. This new headquarters is especially meaningful to me — it’s a project I’ve dreamed about for years. It represents much more than just renovating a building; it reflects who we are as Employee-Owners and showcases Ancon’s Integrated Design-Build™.”

“Whether transforming our own space or revitalizing buildings, our team enjoys breathing new life into existing structures. These projects reflect the core of our day-to-day work and our belief in reinvesting in the communities we call home. They also embody our design philosophy and set a high standard for adaptive reuse in commercial construction. We’re proud to create spaces where people can come together and thrive.”

This recognition highlights Ancon’s Integrated Design-Build™ project delivery method. Our in-house architect and design team approach every project with a process and people flow mindset. Our new office is a testament to how relationship-driven design can create modern, engaging workspaces that increase employee retention and create the type of environment that attracts top talent.

As a 100% Employee-Owned company, we are personally invested in every step, championing your vision to deliver buildings that inspire, perform, and endure.

About The Greater Elkhart Chamber of Commerce
The mission of the Chamber is to be the leading resource for making connections that foster collaboration, which serves and promotes efforts to strengthen the Greater Elkhart business community. www.elkhart.org

About the Fairbanks Award
The Greater Elkhart Chamber’s Business Recognition Council presents the Fairbanks Award annually to four businesses who exemplify innovative and extraordinary beautification efforts to enhance our community. This award recognizes businesses and not-for-profit entities making outstanding beautification efforts, either through new construction or renovations, in our community. This could be beautification of existing property, structure, or landscaping, or remodeling to enhance the overall appearance of the property.

About Ancon Construction: 
Ancon Construction is a leading commercial design-build contractor offering services such as planning, architectural design, construction, remodeling, and maintenance. Headquartered in Goshen, Indiana, the company is 100% employee-owned and has been a cornerstone of the Michiana community’s construction and architectural landscape since 1975.

For media inquiries or further information, please contact Amy Self, Ancon Construction’s Marketing Manager, at 574.533.9561, aself@anconconstruction.com, or visit anconconstruction.com.

Our People, Their Story. Bryan’s Story with Ancon Construction

Our People, Their Story. Bryan’s Story with Ancon Construction

by | Feb 22, 2025 | ANCON News

 

Our People, Their Story: Bryan’s Story with Ancon Construction

Bryan’s journey with Ancon Construction spans more than a decade, beginning with a high school internship and evolving into an architectural design role. Reflecting on the past five years as an Employee Owner, Bryan describes his experience as one of both personal and professional growth.

Bryan’s path into the construction industry started at Goshen High School, where he participated in the ICE (Internship Cooperative Experience) program. He spent his entire senior year interning at Ancon, working mornings throughout the fall and spring semesters. After graduating, he pursued architecture at Ball State University and returned to Ancon during summer breaks. Upon earning his degree, he took a design role at Jayco, where he spent five years creating luxury fifth-wheel RVs.

When an opportunity arose at Ancon Construction on their design team, he returned. Since then, he notes this change within the company: “We’re busier than ever, and the type of projects we take on have become more refined,” he explains.

Bryan has always known he wanted to be a designer in an environment that continuously challenges him. One of the aspects he values most is Ancon’s employee ownership model. “Being an Employee Owner is a game changer,” he says. “It’s a massive financial perk, but more importantly, it creates a culture of shared investment and accountability.”

Among his many projects, the Ice Box expansion stands out as the most complex. “It’s not just a skating rink,” he explains. “We had to integrate old and new spaces seamlessly while raising the existing lobby floor by one and a half feet.” The intricacy of the design and the problem-solving required made it a memorable challenge. Another highlight of his career is Shady Creek Winery, a project that was both visually stunning and personally fulfilling. “Attending the ribbon cutting and seeing people’s reactions to the finished space was surreal,” he recalls.

What keeps Bryan engaged in his role is the variety of projects Ancon takes on. “Every day is different. One day, I’m working on programming; the next, I’m developing high-quality renderings for a different project.” Over the years, his role has evolved, transitioning from being behind the scenes to taking on more responsibility. “I now serve as the primary design contact on select projects, collaborating closely with the project manager and superintendent to ensure everything runs smoothly.”

One of Bryan’s proudest moments has been seeing the projects he designed come to life, from the initial design phases to the grand openings. “It’s incredibly rewarding to witness the impact our work has on communities, whether it’s our office, or another landmark project.”

For those starting their careers in design or construction, Bryan’s advice is simple: “Buy in, ask for help, and don’t be afraid to take risks. That’s the best way to grow.” He believes success in his role comes from teamwork and a willingness to learn. “I’ve always strived to absorb as much knowledge as possible from experts in different areas.” At Ancon, he continues this approach, building strong relationships with superintendents and field staff.

The collaborative environment at Ancon makes it a unique place to work, with a culture that encourages growth and innovation. “We all contribute to the success of our projects, and that makes a huge difference.”

As Bryan looks ahead, he’s excited about Ancon’s future and the projects to come. His journey is a testament to continuous learning and the impact of a company that invests in its people.

About Ancon Construction:
Ancon Construction is a leading commercial design-build contractor offering services such as planning, architectural design, construction, remodeling, and maintenance. Headquartered in Goshen, Indiana, the company is 100% employee-owned and has been a cornerstone of the Michiana community’s architectural and construction landscape since 1975.

For more information about Ancon Construction, contact Amy Self, Ancon Construction’s Marketing Manager, at 574.533.9561, aself@anconconstruction.com, or visit anconconstruction.com.

Habitat for Humanity of St. Joseph County Broke Ground on New Homeownership Training Center and Main Office

Habitat for Humanity of St. Joseph County Broke Ground on New Homeownership Training Center and Main Office

by | Oct 18, 2024 | ANCON News

Pictured left to right: Andy Place Sr., Place Builders President; Matt Krause, Ancon Construction Superintendent; Matthew VanSoest, Ancon Construction Lead Project Designer; Jim Williams, President and CEO of Habitat for Humanity; Doug VonGunten, Ancon Construction President; Mayor Dave Wood, City of Mishawaka; Jeff Rea, South Bend Area Chamber of Commerce President; Tim Schrock, Ancon Construction Project Manager.

 

Habitat for Humanity of St. Joseph County Broke Ground on New Homeownership Training Center and Main Office

Ancon Construction is proud to partner with Habitat for Humanity of St. Joseph County on its new Homeownership Training Center and Main Office, located at 524 E. McKinley Ave, Mishawaka. The groundbreaking ceremony took place on Thursday, October 17.

The project involves an 11,500-square-foot adaptive reuse of a former medical office building, featuring a complete interior overhaul and a transformative exterior renovation. The redesign aims to restore the building’s original 1961 architectural features while modernizing its exterior with new entrance canopies. Inside, the two-story facility will include offices, open workspaces, conference rooms, lounge areas, a board room, an outdoor patio space, and a 60-person training room.

“Ensuring all interior work and communal spaces have access to natural daylight is achieved through the building’s ribbon window features on both the north and south facades,” explained lead project designer Matthew VanSoest. Habitat for Humanity’s national branding and color palette will be incorporated into the interior, alongside unique wood screen walls and feature walls that symbolize the non-profit’s work in building homes.

Doug VonGunten, President of Ancon Construction, which is leading the renovation, expressed the company’s appreciation for the opportunity to partner with Habitat for Humanity: “On behalf of all the Employee Owners at Ancon Construction, we are deeply grateful for the opportunity to partner with Habitat of Humanity of St. Joseph County to design and renovate their new corporate office. Habitat’s mission closely aligns with our core values here at Ancon, and it has been a true privilege to be entrusted with this project. We look forward to transforming this building so that Habitat can continue to transform St. Joseph County.”

The new Training Center is expected to serve 750 to 1,000 community members annually, offering educational programs on budgeting, credit improvement, fire and home safety, estate planning, and home maintenance. “This 75-person Training Center reflects our commitment to empowering individuals with the knowledge and skills needed for successful homeownership,” said Jim Williams, President & CEO of Habitat for Humanity of St. Joseph County. “With the generous support of donors like Key Bank and the Judd Leighton Foundation, this debt-free facility will allow us to focus on building more attainable workforce housing.”

The building is expected to be completed in the Spring of 2025 and is strategically located adjacent to the new fire station, making it a prominent addition to the ongoing improvements along the McKinley Corridor, which will include the widening of McKinley Avenue.

For more information, please contact Amy Self, Ancon Construction’s Marketing Manager, at 574.533.9561, aself@anconconstruction.com, or visit anconconstruction.com.

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About Ancon Construction: 
Ancon Construction is a leading commercial design-build contractor offering services such as planning, architectural design, construction, remodeling, and maintenance. Headquartered in Goshen, Indiana, the company is 100% employee-owned and has been a cornerstone of the Michiana community’s construction and architectural landscape since 1975.

For media inquiries or further information, please contact Amy Self, Ancon Construction’s Marketing Manager, at 574.533.9561, aself@anconconstruction.com, or visit anconconstruction.com.

Get to Know Doug VonGunten, Featured In This Week’s Ancon Staff Spotlight!

Get to Know Doug VonGunten, Featured In This Week’s Ancon Staff Spotlight!

by | Mar 13, 2018 | Ancon News

With over 25 years of experience in the construction industry, Doug VonGunten is one of Ancon Construction’s many valuable project managers. Doug’s responsibilities as a project manager begin long before construction actually starts, leading the design-build team in programming, design, budgeting, and cost estimating. The project manager continues his leadership role throughout the construction process until the project has been completed and handed-off to the customer. Doug has managed a wide variety of projects including industrial projects, manufacturing facilities, streetscapes and infrastructure, zoo animal exhibits, ice skating parks, educational facilities, and more.

Some of Doug’s accomplishments include awards for Excellence in Merit Shop Construction for a new TLCU Financial building and a multi-purpose center at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church. Additionally, Doug’s Eddy Street Commons Streetscape project won an Associated Builders and Contractors Merit Shop Image award and the North American River Otter Exhibit project he managed at the Potawatomi Zoo earned an ABC Award of Honor. Through all of the projects that Doug has managed, he is most proud of making a client’s ideas and dreams about their project a reality.

Onsite Making Sure Projects Run Smooth

Aside from his work at Ancon, Doug finds many ways to serve and give back to the community. He is a member and Past President of Goshen Noon Kiwanis, serves on the Apprenticeship Committee for the local chapter of the Associated Builders and Contractors apprenticeship program, and is an active member of his church, Walnut Hill Mennonite in Goshen. Doug also serves on the Board of Directors for Ryan’s Place, a not-for-profit organization that provides grief support to children, teens, and families who have experienced the death of a family member or loved one. Most recently, Doug has been serving on a committee with the Goshen Parks Department that is designing a playground for children of all ability levels.

Doug lives just North of Goshen with his wife of 21 years, Jolene, and their three children: Jack (16), Garrett (13), and Molly (9). In his free time, Doug enjoys attending his kids’ sporting events and music programs and being active outdoors, including cycling, running, camping, and hiking. Doug and his family also enjoy spending time at the beach in North Carolina with their extended family.

Doug says about his work, “I really enjoy the construction industry and the challenges that it brings. There are new challenges every day and no two projects are ever the same.” Doug is an invaluable part of the Ancon team. Both Ancon and its customers greatly benefit from his vast experience and tireless work.

Ancon Construction Opens New Office in Downtown South Bend

Ancon Construction Opens New Office in Downtown South Bend

by | Feb 17, 2018 | Ancon News

February 15, 2018

South Bend, IN- Ancon Construction, premier design build construction firm, held a ribbon cutting ceremony to officially open their new downtown South Bend office.  Located inside the newly renovated mixed use building The LaSalle the office has premiere corner street level visibility set inside the historic LaSalle building.  Although the office is inside a historic building the design is ultra modern and minimalistic.  Matt VanSoest, Designer, researched office spaces like Tesla and Google and used that for design inspiration.  Local artists have donated some sculptures and historic photos of downtown South Bend have placed them throughout the office.

Why downtown South Bend?  For over 40 years Ancon Construction has served South Bend, Mishawaka and the entire St. Joseph County region.  Nearly everyday there is an Ancon Construction employee in the region working on projects.  “We have a known presence and excellent reputation in this region….now we have the physical location to match.  The revitalization of the downtown corridor is exciting.  Many of the projects that started the downtown revitalization Ancon Construction were a part of, so South Bend seemed like the natural choice when we looked at potential locations.” noted Ryan Kring, Vice President of Business Development.  

Kring went on to say, “This space is a communal area which our employees can use to give our clients a comfortable place to meet and have a great experience.  Having this space allows our customers a closer place to meet and plan out our projects together.  We use a team approach to project design and delivery in which our clients are involved heavily throughout the entire process.  The office is designed to be a living showroom of various types of materials so our clients can see them in actual space.  Periodically we will change out the furniture and flooring to highlight the latest available designs and materials.”

Ancon Construction is not the only tenant in the building, recently The Hideaway opened.  The Hideaway is a 1920’s speakeasy steampunk whiskey bar that was designed and built by Ancon Construction.  South Blend, a new coffee house, is also under construction and will be opening its doors in the next few months.

We have been building this region for over 40 years and we look forward to the next 40.

 

Are you ready to start your project?  Click HERE and let’s get your project started….together.