This BIM model shows a virtual image of angled roof supports clashing with a fire protection pipe. Krusinski Construction corrected the issue by moving the pipe before construction began.

A distribution facility BIM model revealed that the light fixtures needed to be placed higher so they didn’t bump into packages on a conveyor belt. The team moved the fixtures before installing them, saving the owner time and money.

Building information modeling (BIM) is gaining traction for virtual design and construction in the greater Chicago area and is becoming more sophisticated as technology evolves. Krusinski Construction is on top of the trend and is expanding its BIM expertise.

Contractors and architects use BIM software to make detailed 3-D building models before construction begins. The models allow them to identify potential constructability and site access issues. BIM is also an important tool for pinpointing proposed “clashes” in building components when they’re easier and more cost-effective to resolve.

Krusinski Construction professionals recently completed advanced training that enables them to test and validate all architectural, mechanical, electrical, plumbing and structural elements.

“Modeling provides more opportunities for information-sharing than it did when we started using BIM in 2007,” says Jim Wilkinson, senior preconstruction manager at Krusinski Construction. “We have a better sense of how things fit together, so there’s less room for misinterpretation and re-work.”

Examples of clashes that the software would flag include a steel beam going through a duct, a handrail intersecting with a glass storefront and a light fixture colliding with a pipe. Being able to capture, visualize and prevent these and significantly more complex scenarios before construction begins saves owners significant money. BIM also helps owners understand how something will look and how it will perform before it’s built.

“For those who are not familiar with design, reading traditional 2-D drawings can be like learning a new language,” Wilkinson says. “3-D digital models make it clear how building components fit together.”

BIM isn’t just for new construction. It also helps contractors and architects understand optimal renovation and retrofit opportunities in existing buildings.

“Understanding when, where and how to use BIM is the key,” Wilkinson says. “We use it on a case-by-case basis when it makes sense.”

Krusinski Construction is celebrating 40 years in business – an exceptional milestone that reflects not only the hard work and dedication of founder and CEO Joe Krusinski, but also that of the entire team.

Veteran employees credit Krusinski Construction’s longevity to providing the highest quality work and forming strong relationships with employees and clients. They shared their thoughts about what the anniversary means to them, as well as what makes the firm special.

Gary Dupuis
Chief Financial Officer

Q: What does Krusinski Construction’s 40th anniversary mean to you?

A: It represents an impressive milestone. Most companies don’t last 40 years. It speaks to Joe’s dedication and determination, as well as that of his brother, Jerry, who has been with the company nearly 30 years.

Q: What’s been the key to the company’s longevity? Has that changed over the years?

A: These days, you hear a lot about “customer satisfaction” as a goal of a lot of companies. I think the Krusinski Construction success story can be attributed to the fact that its focus has been on making customers feel thrilled at the completion of each project – not just satisfied. This philosophy hasn’t changed since day one. The emphasis on long-term relationship-building, rather than short-term profits, has led to a lot of loyal and trusting repeat customers and referrals.

Q: What advice would you give to new Krusinski Construction employees on their first day?

A: In every task you perform, every document you submit, every communication you’re involved in, and with every customer you engage, do so as if it’s your own name on the door. Take advantage of this great opportunity to show what you can do without being restricted by a lot of red tape and corporate policies that prevent productivity.

Mike Metz
Vice President

Q: What’s your fondest memory at Krusinski Construction?

A: I enjoy pursuing potential projects with Joe, especially if it’s in the city. I love going to old buildings with him and just seeing their history. Joe’s enthusiasm for the chase is addictive.

Q: How would you describe the company’s culture? Has it changed over the years?

A: Our culture of keeping the client happy and doing whatever it takes hasn’t changed.

Q: What does Krusinski Construction’s 40th anniversary mean to you?

A: It’s a great accomplishment for a medium-size company to last for 40 years in this business. The company has gone through changes and recessions, but the constant is that it has kept its core people. They’re the main reason Krusinski Construction has thrived.

Jean Reisner
Accounting Manager

Q: List five adjectives that describe Krusinski Construction.

A: Disciplined, organized, diligent, professional and friendly.

Q: What do you consider the company’s primary achievements?

A: Our primary achievement is earning repeat business from long-standing clients. These customers know that we’re dedicated and that we’ll get the job done, no matter what the obstacles are.

Q: What’s been key to you and your colleagues’ longevity with Krusinski Construction?

A: A pleasant work environment and a great staff. Krusinski hires people to do a job and then lets them do it.

If past accomplishments are any gauge, Krusinski Construction will keep growing and succeeding for 40 more years and beyond. Happy anniversary!

A level and flow process control instrument manufacturer is counting on Krusinski Construction to help the company meet growing demand for its products by relocating its headquarters to a larger facility. The new plant will include an immense compressed air network and electrical system to accommodate expanded production.

Magnetrol International Inc. plans to move from Downers Grove, Ill., to the Meridian Business Campus in Aurora, Ill., this summer. The Aurora site will be about three times the size of the company’s current location. Krusinski Construction is converting an existing warehouse in the business park to manufacturing and office space for Magnetrol.

“We’re converting the warehouse to a manufacturing floor with an extensive network for compressed air, process gases, electrical and data needs,” says Senior Project Manager Joe Krusinski III. “It’s not often that you have such a significant network under one roof.”

Krusinski Construction is making more than 100,000 square feet of improvements for Magnetrol’s plant, including nearly two miles of compressed air piping; a second, dedicated 3,000-amp electrical service; more than 400 data drops to equipment and workstations; and modifications to existing ventilation systems to account for exhaust, heat load and makeup air requirements.

The project also includes a 36,000-square-foot office build-out, construction of a second-story mezzanine, 150 new parking spaces for employees and dock modifications.

“Magnetrol has been in business for more than 80 years,” Krusinski says. “We’re excited to be part of the new 221,000-square-foot headquarters that will allow Magnetrol to expand and grow its customer base for the next 80 years.”

Candis Jackson, a new project coordinator at Krusinski Construction, prepares subcontractor agreements, tracks insurance certificates and oversees the bid process for subcontractors. Jackson is skilled at keeping her cool even during the most stressful times. Her calm presence goes hand in hand with one of her favorite quotes. Here’s an excerpt:

“The longer I live, the more I realize the impact of my attitude on life. Attitude, to me, is more important than facts. …The remarkable thing is we have a choice everyday regarding the attitude we will embrace for that day. …I am convinced that life is 10 percent what happens to me and 90 percent of how I react to it. …”

-Charles Swindoll

Jackson lives in Chicago with her 13-year-old daughter. She enjoys learning but doesn’t like to read, and is taking an archery class. She says that if she weren’t such a “punk,” she’d be a markswoman for the CIA!

Please join Krusinski Construction in welcoming Jackson. She’s an excellent addition to the team! Contact Jackson at candisj@krusinski.com.

Left: Heritage Crossing Corporate Center Building 2. Right: Kapstone Paper and Packaging Corp.

Here’s an update on our recent work:

CN Campus, Homewood, Ill.: Krusinski Construction will begin building a training center for CN Railway employees on a 16-acre site in June. The two-story, 56,000-square-foot building will include indoor learning labs with equipment such as locomotive simulators and dispatcher stations, and outdoor learning areas with dedicated rolling stock and other field training equipment. Senior Project Manager: Andy Johnson; Project Superintendent: Rick Drews; and architects: Harris Architects and Garnett Architects.

Midwest Digestive Disease Specialists, Oakbrook Terrace, Ill.: Krusinski Construction was awarded a 5,000-square-foot build-out in an existing office suite in an occupied building. The project will require careful demolition of existing walls, ceilings and floors, and mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems. The new space will include endoscopy rooms, recovery bays, clean and soiled utility rooms, physician offices, a waiting area, a nurses’ station and a break room. Senior Project Manager: Steve Moeller; Project Superintendent: Rick Drews; and architect: Brubaker Architects.

Kapstone Paper and Packaging Corp., Aurora, Ill.: Krusinski Construction recently completed a 192,000-square-foot manufacturing and distribution facility for Liberty Property Trust and its tenant, Kapstone. The site work included shortening the rail spur that serves the facility, adding five dock doors and four rail doors to the building, and an interior build-out for a two-story office. Senior Project Manager: Mike Metz; and architect: Kwasek Architects.

Heritage Crossing Corporate Center Building 2, Lockport, Ill.: Krusinski Construction recently completed a 122,000-square-foot speculative building for ML Realty Partners at the business park. The park has one of the nation’s largest concentrations of rail, interstate and air transportation networks in the United States. Senior Project Manager: Mike Metz; Superintendent: Shawn Barry; and architect: Harris Architects.

Jeff Cali, a Krusinski Construction project superintendent, plays guitar during a recent fundraiser to help those with disabilities.

Jeff Cali, a Krusinski Construction project superintendent, recently participated in an annual fundraising telethon for the Association for Individual Development (AID) in Aurora, Ill. To date, the event has generated more than $89,000 for AID, which helps those who have developmental, physical and mental disabilities. The Elgin Junior Service Board, which partners with AID, also participated in the telethon.