Carl A. Nelson & Company begins 113th year in business

With the start of 2026, Carl A. Nelson & Company has begun its 113th year in business, continuing a long-standing presence as an industrial, commercial, and institutional builder serving owners across the Midwest and beyond.

The company’s longevity reflects a consistent approach to how work is planned, built, and supported. Long-term client relationships remain central to how the firm measures success.

That same disciplined approach extends to jobsite safety. Entering its 113th year, the company is at five-plus years without a lost-day accident (and counting!), reflecting stable leadership, experienced field supervision, and repeatable processes applied from project to project.

“ Clients don’t come back because of promises. They come back because we deliver on our promises, which all starts with Fairness and Honesty, Quality Workmanship, and Service Second to None. ”

Chris Smith, President

Carl A. Nelson & Company

As an employee-owned company, Carl A. Nelson & Company’s ownership model is based on directly invested owners (not an ESOP or profit-sharing program). The firm also remains a self-performing contractor, maintaining direct control over critical scopes to support schedule reliability, quality, and coordination.

Core markets include industrial, healthcare, education, and recreation, along with a range of other commercial and institutional project types. Recent and representative work can be found in the project portfolio.

Headquartered in Burlington, Iowa, the company is licensed in 22 states, with a primary service area of approximately 350 miles around Burlington.

The company’s operating approach remains consistent: Deliver Value. Build Trust. Repeat.