As the saying goes, necessity is the mother of invention. In the case of CL Construction, a family-owned agricultural and commercial contracting company based in southeastern Nebraska with locations in Lincoln, Wahoo and Grand Island, it’s fair to include an astute eye for opportunity. Founded in 2009 by Chris Lautenschlager, CL Construction has grown steadily over the past 15 years, starting as an agricultural contractor handling service work to building brand-new facilities in the agricultural industry.
From Strength to Strength
The agricultural construction industry in Nebraska and the Midwest plays a vital role in supporting the farming economy. Nebraska ranks as a top producer of corn, soybeans, and beef cattle, and there is constant demand for modern grain storage, handling, and processing facilities. The industry faces unique challenges, including the need to build structures that can withstand weather conditions and meet safety and environmental regulations. Companies like CL Construction have found success by offering comprehensive services tailored to the specific needs of agricultural businesses. As the agriculture sector continues to evolve with new technologies and changing market demands, construction must remain adaptable and innovative to stay competitive in the market.
According to Lautenschlager, the rise of CL Construction came about through a willingness to respond, innovate and expand its services to the industry’s needs. “We planned to start in residential before moving to commercial construction. But in early 2009, we got an opportunity to do concrete foundations on some grain bins in Kansas. From there it continued to grow into bigger sized grain bin foundations.” Lautenschlager then observed that very few businesses were involved in grain bin erection and in response, invested in grain bin jacks and began the process of lifting bins.
Lautenschlager explained that the company’s initial strategy lacked a clear direction and sustainable future. To adapt, CL Construction branched out into the service sector, focusing on equipment maintenance and repairs for grain handling facilities. This allowed the company to grow and eventually transition into hiring an in-house team capable of self-performing all major work. The evolution has now come full circle, marking an exciting new chapter for CL Construction as they expand their in-house capabilities to include a new division, Demolition starting in October 2024.
The journey has been fast and exhilarating. From starting as the sole employee in 2009, CL Construction has grown to become a home for 170 individuals. For Lautenschlager, the greatest achievement is reaching a point where the company can support all those families. “Family is incredibly important to us here at CL Construction. Early on, I realized that the purpose behind the opportunity to start this business was to provide not only for my family but for all the families connected to CL Construction.” The company mission statement reflects this commitment: “Providing a foundation for our family and yours to build upon.”
Lautenschlager emphasized the importance of passionate employees in driving the company’s success, acknowledging that he cannot do everything alone. He empowers leaders to pursue their interests. The company acquired CR Manufacturing in Grand Island, NE, which has opened new opportunities in the manufacturing sector.
In-House Capabilities
CL Construction offers a range of services including new construction, design-build, renovation and repair, and facility maintenance. These core competencies are backed by its divisions: Millwright, Concrete, Paving, Demolition, Welding & Fabrication, Logistics, and Design & Field Technical Services. Lautenschlager noted that the development of these in-house skills has stemmed from a sense of necessity: “To enhance our knowledge and capabilities, we chose to invest in owning our own facilities. This has allowed us to continually learn and ultimately provide even greater value to our customers in the future.”
Lautenschlager quickly recognized that enhancing the company’s processes could significantly boost both efficiency and customer value. “By establishing our own facilities including a fabrication shop equipped with CNC plasma cutters, shears, and brakes, we can deliver more high-quality equipment and parts,” he explained. This enabled CL Construction to take on additional projects.
When discussing the key to success, Lautenschlager emphasized that responding to industry demands benefits everyone involved. “Our customers can now depend on us to provide whatever they need at their facilities. We are committed supporting our customers, as well as our own family here at CL Construction.”
2024: Completed Projects
CL Construction has expanded its national footprint, completing projects in 2024 in Massachusetts, Kentucky, North Dakota, and Idaho. The company’s agricultural expertise was showcased in the construction of a new grain storage facility in Mead, NE. New concrete foundations were built in David City, NE, and Courtland, KS.
CL Construction undertook other infrastructure projects, including new pavings for the City of Grand Island and Lincoln, NE. The company will begin the demolition of a Lincoln grain elevator in October and is actively supporting the ethanol industry.
Commitment to Excellence
As CL Construction continues to grow, it remains committed to fostering a dynamic workforce ready to tackle the challenges of the future. The company will continue to explore the maintenance and repair of facilities across the Midwest and be active in hiring future innovators and builders. To learn more about CL Construction, visit clnebraska.com
