ABOUT EMPIRE
Empire Building Construction is a Sioux Falls-based commercial and industrial construction company. Putting people over profit for over 40 years.
OUR STORY
Empire Building Construction was established in 1983 by Ercell Fortney. Since then, our company has built a reputation as the premier metal building erector in the area. We’ve completed hundreds projects in the Sioux Falls community and all over South Dakota, as well as some areas of Minnesota, Iowa, and Nebraska.
Back in the 1990s, Empire struggled to find concrete contractors who could deliver a level of quality that met our standards, so we began pouring ourselves. Concrete work is now a significant part of our business, and we pour for a number of other general contractors in the Sioux Falls area. In over 40 years of business, our company has flourished and grown. In addition to general contracting, steel building erection, and concrete, we’ve expanded our services to include sitework and development.
Empire Building Construction has acquired multiple long-standing local businesses along the way, including Golden Rule Construction and Parker Lumber (now called Empire Lumber Company). We currently have a team of over 70 employees. Each is carefully selected for their skills, expertise, and passion for the work. With decades of experience and a bright vision for the future, Empire is committed to delivering unmatched quality to our community.
What We’re About:
EMPOWERING PEOPLE TO GROW
Promoting community growth by equipping businesses with the facilities they need to thrive.
OUR PEOPLE
Lasting success can only be built on a strong foundation. That’s why we start with taking care of our own people.
We prioritize giving our team members the tools and resources they need to be their best selves both professionally and personally. This includes offering frequent training sessions, access to educational materials such as books and courses, opportunities to attend industry conventions and seminars, and more. By investing in continuous learning and development, we empower our team members to reach their full potential and excel in their roles.
To ensure our values are reflected throughout our company, we’ve committed to fostering a culture of excellence, integrity, and mutual respect. We encourage open communication, collaboration, and innovation, creating an environment where ideas are valued, and everyone has a voice.
We challenge and empower our team members to take ownership of their careers, placing each individual in a position where they can optimize their unique talents and strengths, and providing opportunities for growth, advancement, and leadership roles for those who seek them. When our team members are thriving, our business thrives, and we’re able to deliver the quality results our customers deserve.
INNOVATION
At Empire Building Construction, innovation isn’t just a buzzword. It’s a fundamental principle that drives everything we do. We’re not afraid to continually question the status quo, because we recognize that there will always be opportunities for improvement. Whether it’s exploring new construction techniques, adopting cutting-edge technologies, or reimagining traditional processes, we embrace the challenge of pushing the boundaries and raising the bar higher.
Our commitment to innovation is evident in every aspect of our operations, from project planning and design to construction execution and beyond. By fostering a culture of creativity and collaboration among our team members, we create an environment where innovative ideas can flourish and thrive.
We believe that true innovation comes from thinking and acting outside the box, challenging assumptions, and exploring unconventional approaches. Through ongoing experimentation, iteration, and adaptation, we continuously seek out new and better ways to deliver value to our clients and exceed their expectations. At Empire Building Construction, innovation is a mindset that propels us forward and enables us to find unique solutions to even the most complex problems.
RHINOCEROS MENTALITY
A concept derived from the book ‘Rhinoceros Success’, the metaphorical comparison between cows and rhinoceroses offers profound insights into the mindset required for success.
Most people passively meander through life like cows standing around in the field, idly chewing their cud, content to remain where they are and let opportunities slip through their fingers.
On the other hand, those who embody the spirit of the rhinoceros charge forward with unwavering determination and purpose. Like the mighty rhinoceros, they possess a relentless drive to pursue their goals and dreams, refusing to be deterred by obstacles or setbacks. With their thick skin and indomitable spirit, they power through adversity, undeterred by the challenges that stand in their way.
At Empire Building Construction, we embrace the rhinoceros mentality as a guiding principle for both our individual endeavors and our collective success as a company. It is this fearless pursuit of excellence and resilience in the face of adversity that sets us apart and propels us towards achieving our goals.
Love Your Work.
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Build Your Career at Empire.
Recent Projects
ABOUT OUR SERVICES
At Empire Building Construction, we’re committed to exceeding our clients’ expectations at every turn. Whether it’s a new commercial development, industrial facility, or renovation, we approach each project with integrity, professionalism, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
As a full-service general contractor, our services encompass every aspect of the construction process. We’ll take care of your building from initial planning and development to final project completion.
General Contracting
From start to finish, we’ll efficiently manage every detail of your project, ensuring everything runs smoothly and gets done right, on time, and on budget.
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Steel Erection
As an authorized Varco Pruden Builder, we have access to industry-leading technology and can provide building solutions for every need and budget.
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Concrete Flatwork & Foundations
We use the latest technology to meet strict flatness standards and leave our customers with high quality, lasting results.
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Sitework
We provide demolition, earthwork, and trucking services to properly prep your land for building.
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Development
After building hundreds of buildings and a wide variety of structures over the years, we’re uniquely qualified to provide invaluable advice and top notch service when it comes to planning, analysis, acquisition, design, and more.
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Empire Lumber
Get the best quality building materials at the best prices. Our knowledgable lumberyard staff also provide drafting, architectural plans, 3D renderings, concept design, & more.
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