Raeco Builders is the first company in South Dakota—and one of 26 nationwide—to earn the AC478 accreditation certification, a credential demonstrating commitment to safety, excellence in quality control, and metal building assembly.
“This accreditation reflects our commitment to doing things right and doing them well,” said Raeco Builders president Tom Jurgens. “I’m incredibly proud of the accomplishments of the team, and know it is because of everyone’s efforts we have been able to achieve what we have.”
RAECO ETYMOLOGY
The name “Raeco” comes from a blend of Jurgen’s children’s names, Raelin and Cole.
They’re dedicated to bringing projects of all kinds to life from conception to completion, and integrity and transparency are at the heart of the company’s origin, Jurgens adds.
Two thousand and nine is when it all started. Jurgens had the realization a major portion of his kids’ lives were spent with him on the road working sales. Right then and there he decided to start his own business selling metal buildings and general contracting.
Created with the goal to build well and keep long-term client relationships in mind, Raeco Builders continues to carry their commitment to quality and safety through to every project they’re involved in consistently, Jurgens says.
“I was frustrated by the inconsistency in quality I was seeing from some of the subcontractors, so we decided to branch off into self-performed labor,” revealed Jurgens.
Full-service general contracting allows Raeco to handle complex building projects under one roof and gives clients the advantage of faster timelines, long-term durability, and cost-effective customization.
“Because we self-perform our concrete work and steel erection, we’re able to maintain quality, stay on schedule, and keep communication clear,” revealed Jurgens.
Instead of relying on outside contractors with packed schedules and varied levels of quality, Raeco is able to perform the entire concrete phase internally.
“This gives us more control over the timeline and ensures the foundation is poured accurately and efficiently,” said Jurgens.
“our level of coordination helps us meet client expectations, minimize surprises, and start every build on solid ground.”
-Tom Jurgens
STREAM IT
Check out Raeco’s podcast Structural Snackdown with host Zach Bauer. Hear from special guests and get tips on topics like development and customer needs.
The process of starting a project begins with the initial consultation. The Raeco team then designs, engineers, and works out the necessary permits. Manufacturing and construction commence after permits are secured, and finally the project closes.
Raeco currently operates from Rapid City and Sioux Falls. Jurgens says his team is more than willing to travel and work all across the surrounding area.
“Having locations on each side of South Dakota has allowed us to work closely with local communities statewide to help people achieve their building goals,” said Jurgens. “We’ve also had the privilege of working in many of the surrounding states.”
Jurgens has many projects under his belt, making him and his team proud. One build that stands out to him consisted of a 100,000 square foot addition. A competitor had told the client the project wasn’t doable.
NOTABLE RAECO PROJECTS
Trussbilt in Huron added over 100,000 square- feet with connection to an existing facility on 12 acres of land. This project features a receiving bay for the raw product, an executive conference room, and thicker concrete bases for new laser breaks.
L. G. Everist Ready-Mix Plant produces over 300 yards an hour, doubling its production. This Harrisburg plant is their largest yet.
USD Parking Lot presented the challenge of a tight time frame. The 62,000 square feet of 5” concrete parking lot along with the 5,200 square feet of reinforced sidewalk project was completed just in time for the fall 2019 semester to start.
Wolf Creek Colony Hutterite colony building was completed with specs of 100 by 250 feet in size, with over 25,000 square feet. Wolf Creek Colony is self-sufficient and creates specialized products onsite including molded plastic. They expanded into metal fab, steelwork, and paper products with the new building.
“raeco’s ability to self-perform concrete work is one of the key reason’s we are abel to deliver consistent quality and stay on schedule.”
-Tom jurgens
“We sat down and I presented them with a way to turn the building and maximize the property while still meeting codes, allowing the building to be functional,” added Jurgens.
The client responded saying no one else had thought of a way to execute their project in such a precise, professional, successful manner like Jurgens did.
“Needless to say, we built their building, met their needs, and furthermore developed a great friendship out of this exciting project,” surmised Jurgens. “We love the challenges of complex builds.”
Another notable project was done for the Sioux Corporation in Beresford, contracted last fall.
“This is an exciting project we have the honor of being a part of,” said Jurgens.“We designed this 25,000 square foot addition to meet the current needs, but also for future growth.”
The highly-experienced crews are able to efficiently navigate complex projects because of their expertise and the latest quality technology like GPS layout systems and laser-guided screeds, Jurgens says.
“By fostering open communication and collaboration, we hope to become trusted partners invested in their ongoing growth.”
-Tom jurgens
The concrete process in construction vitally connects to all the other phases of the project and is something Raeco specializes in. Jurgens says their core value of innovation helps eliminate common delays and reduce the need for rework.
“We have found investing in the best equipment for our team allows us to achieve a high level of precision,” he explained. “This helps produce smoother finishes, tighter tolerances, and faster turnaround times.”
Jurgens says when they first meet with the Raeco team, broad ideas are translated into clear, actionable plans.
“Our process begins with listening carefully and asking detailed questions. We work to identify potential roadblocks early, outline realistic options, and provide transparent cost estimates,” said Jurgens. ”By working closely together, we are able to guide customers through decisions with confidence.”
For more information, visit RAECOBUILDERS.COM+
