Our History
“Ellis Construction began in 1932. The company was founded by four Swedish immigrants, Nils Anderson, Helge Carlson, Walfred Olson and Manfred Peterson. Working out of a leased quarry in Ellis, Wisconsin, the four quarried stone to build churches, schools, homes and more. Their dedication and craft laid the foundation for what would become one of Central and Northern Wisconsin’s most highly regarded general contractors .”
— Ellis Stone Construction Company, Inc.
Our History
Leadership Through Generations
Ellis Construction’s evolution has been forged through three generations of leadership.
1932: The Foundation
Ellis Construction began in 1932. The company was founded by four Swedish immigrants, Nils Anderson, Helge Carlson, Walfred Olson and Manfred Peterson.
1960s: Advancing the Legacy
Nils Anderson and Helge Carlson continued to advance Ellis Construction through the 1960s.
1970s – 1990s: Second Generation Expansion
Then, during the 1970s, ’80s and ’90s, the second generation expanded the company significantly. Jim Anderson served as President.
2007: Next-Generation Transition
In 2007, Carl sold his shares to his son, Erik Carlson, who became Executive Vice President until 2017.
2017: Ownership Transition
In January 2017, after a year-long succession plan, ownership transitioned. Jim sold most of his shares to Erik Carlson and Andrew Halverson, along with Tim Kreft, Patrick Pierce, Brandon Kohls and Steve Chizzo. Erik became President and Principal Shareholder, with Andrew as Executive Vice President & Corporate Secretary, with the others as Directors in their respective fields.
2026
Ellis Construction transitions to 100% employee ownership through an Employee Stock Ownership Program (ESOP), securing its legacy of innovation and excellence in its field.
Every leader has expanded on our shared core values of safety, quality, integrity, teamwork, and flexibility, ensuring our Built Right™ mantra defines not just what we build, but who we are and how we operate.
