Company History

Peterson Construction was formed in February of 1957 by John Peterson and Alfred Huisinga.  It was then know as Huisinga & Peterson Construction.  The first years of business were focused on residential construction, remodeling, cabinet making, and small agricultural buildings.  The original office for the organization was in John's own home.  A big building year in 1958 created a need to expand to a larger office and shop which was constructed in the spring of 1959 at 1929 West Second Street.

Although these markets provided many good years of growth and new opportunities, the company was looking for a step level change in its construction activities.  In July of 1963, Grace Sherman of Fort Dodge came to the company wanting to build a nursing home.  The ground breaking was soon to follow, but more than another building was started—diversification had begun.  Commercial and institutional buildings and multi-family housing were all soon a part of the company's capabilities.  That nursing home also marked the first bonded job by the company.

From that job in 1963 through the building boom of the 1970's, Huisinga & Peterson grew in many directions:  other types of construction, employees, annual volume of work, more construction equipment, and a larger office.  1979 marked the most significant change in the company since its inception in 1957.  John Peterson bought out Alfred Huisinga's interest and formed the sole proprietorship of Peterson Construction.  This change also pushed the company another step up the diversity ladder by taking on manufacturing projects.  More change was soon to follow.

In May of 1981, Gerald Peterson joined his father in business following his graduation from Iowa State University with a degree in construction engineering.  Combining experience and education, John and Gerald explored any possible construction project in central Iowa.  The evolution continued as the company successfully negotiated and bid on industrial, renovation, and heavy highway work.

In 1986, Peterson Construction became a member of the Master Builders of Iowa (MBI), an affiliate of the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC).  This network of contractors, including associate and affiliate members, provides many services such as safety programs, training programs, and governing affairs.  In June of 1988, son Joel joined the family business and brought with him another construction engineering degree from Iowa State University and two years experience as a cost engineer for Proctor & Gamble of Cincinnati, Ohio.

The most recent change was the incorporation of Peterson Construction in January of 1989 as the perpetuation of Peterson Construction was dependent upon a corporate structure because incorporation allowed for the continued growth and development of Peterson Construction.