Our History
Blueprint for success.
The history of Russell begins much like any other story – a man, a dream and a business card.
James V. Russell founded Russell Construction Company, Inc. in 1983 upon graduating from Iowa State University. The economy was in decline and Jim had a desire to take a risk and be his own boss. Armed with a stack of business cards and $10,000, Jim opened up shop in Bettendorf, Iowa. That next year, brought the company’s first two employees, and their first project – a small remodel of a local hotel.
Today, Russell employs over 300 individuals, has offices in three locations, and completes construction and development projects on a regional and national platform – and they say the rest is history.
1980's.
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Award of first major project at the Steeplegate Inn – Davenport, IA.
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Employees travel for work in order to survive in a struggling Quad Cities economy.
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Construction on the first of 20 Super Saver Cinemas and 14 GNC stores begins with locations all across the country.
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First federal government contract awarded.
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Recognized by Inc. Magazine as one of the fastest growing private companies.
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By the end of the 1980’s Russell employs 22 individuals and grosses nearly $5.9 MM in sales.
1990's.
First project valued at over $1 MM awarded.
Relationship with SSAB Steel, which spanned 10 years and $25 MM in projects, begins.
Work with Genesis Health System begins – resulting in a new focus on healthcare facilities.
First educational project begins at Augustana College in Rock Island, IL.
First of 14 Von Maur projects begins – resulting in a long-term relationship spanning $85 MM in projects.
- Revenue exceeds $50 MM by the end of the 1990’s.
2000's.
Relationship with Deere & Company begins – the value of work to date is over $130 MM.
First of 29 Walgreens stores begins – total client value over $40 MM.
Previous headquarters location of Russell in Davenport opens.
Construction of $35 MM Figge Art Museum.
Department of Defense Task Order Contracts begin at Rock Island Arsenal – valued over $89 MM.
- Revenue exceeds $120 MM by the end of 2010 – employee count nears 100.
2010's.
Russell named one of Iowa’s Best Businesses by IA Biz Magazine.
Recognized as a Top 400 Contractor by Engineering News Record Magazine.
Relationship with Galesburg CUSD #205 begins – resulting in over $56 MM in projects.
(3) Employees become one of the first Certified Healthcare Constructors in the State of Iowa.
New Russell Headquarters opens at 4700 E. 53rd Street.
Revenue exceeds $200 MM – employee count is over 150.
2020's.
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Recognized as a Top 400 Contractor by Engineering News Record Magazine (2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023).
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1 Million Hour Safety Goal with Zero Lost Time Incidents Achieved.
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Merger with HBD Construction in St. Louis, MO – opening of St. Louis office.
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Caitlin Russell promoted to President.
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Acquisition of Merit Construction to form the Kansas City office.
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Employee count exceeds 250 (across 3 offices).
