McHugh Construction

Also known as McHugh Construction, James McHugh Construction Co. is one of the largest construction managers and general contractors in the U.S. Founded in 1897 by James D. McHugh, an Irish Bricklayer from Chicago’s south side, McHugh Construction originally specialized in masonry work. Today, McHugh is known for constructing some of Chicago’s most recognizable landmarks and one-of-a-kind structures including Marina City, Water Tower Place, Trump Tower and 340 On The Park, all of which were the world’s tallest reinforced concrete structures at the time.

Today, the founder’s grandson, James P. McHugh serves as chairman of the firm and Bruce Lake is the company’s current president. Lake was appointed this position in 1997, becoming the first non-family member in 100 years to lead the company. James McHugh Construction Co. is a privately owned company. When a change in ownership occurred in the mid 1970’s, the McHughs chose to sell a portion of the company to the employees, which predated the employee stock option trend by decades. Today, employees still own part of the company.

See also James McHugh Construction Co..