With a degree in construction engineering from Iowa State, Craig Jorgensen joined VJS Construction Services in 1987 as a project manager, was appointed vice president in 1992, named president in 1999 and chief executive officer in 2022.
Based in Pewaukee, Wisconsin, for more than 76 years, VJS Construction Services has served as a leading general contractor, construction manager, and design-builder, playing a pivotal role in shaping and revitalizing communities throughout Wisconsin. Their areas of expertise span various sectors, including K-12 education, higher education, senior living, multi-family housing, corporate, civic and community, manufacturing/industrial, aviation, religious, retail and hospitality, and healthcare markets.
Under the leadership of Jorgensen, VJS Construction Services has been a rapidly growing company that employs over 250 personnel and anticipates over $272 million in construction revenue in 2024. His leadership approach reinforces a commitment to total quality management, making profit a secondary consideration to faultless workmanship and complete client satisfaction.
“By ‘walking the talk,’ I lead by example, fostering a culture where we all reflect on how our projects positively affect communities,” said Jorgensen. “Seeing how the next generation brings their own perspectives and innovations to the table and witnessing the different ways they will shape the company’s future energizes me and reinforces my commitment to our long-term success.”
Jorgensen is also committed to continuing his family’s long-standing tradition of philanthropy. The second-generation president of VJS continues his parents’ mission to enhance Wisconsin through philanthropy by leading the VJS Construction Services Community Foundation, which spearheads the company’s efforts to give back to the communities it serves. Through events, fundraisers, and contributions to annual giving campaigns, the Foundation supports several nonprofit partners and has donated over $325,000 to local organizations since its inception in 2018.
“Craig knows that VJS’s continued success relies on dedicated and talented employees who share the company’s values and pride in their work,” said his staff. His commitment to VJS’s legacy has made him a champion for employing and retaining Wisconsin talent and recruiting top candidates to his Wisconsin-based firm.
Under Jorgensen’s leadership, the firm’s robust internship program is central to this mission, inviting students and aspiring individuals into careers in construction. This program introduces interns to various career paths, including project management, estimating, accounting, architectural services, administration, marketing and field operations.
“To continuously reignite my passion for the business, I focus on the impact our work has on the people who will ultimately use the buildings we construct,” said Jorgensen. “This sense of purpose drives me, and I make it a priority to engage in meaningful conversations with our younger employees about this impact, ensuring they understand the significance of what we do.”