Just a few examples of what we've been building, along with our reputation, over the past 25 years.

"A 25-YEAR OVERNIGHT SUCCESS"

That’s one of Steve East’s favorite ways to describe the growth of CSM Group. And if anyone ought to know, it’s East— company president and a guy who was there at the beginning, 25 years ago. But the expression is not really as cryptic as it sounds, especially if you’ve spent any time around East, or any other CSM Group employee.

The “overnight success” part feels right because of the way CSM Group has enjoyed impressive growth in recent years. The company has had the good fortune to work on some of the most prestigious projects in the area, and people who encounter CSM Group employees frequently say things like “We see your signs all over the place!”

Read More:"A 25-Year Overnight Success"

CSM Memories
Members of our leadership team share
their thoughts on our anniversary.

Shannon Rice, Senior Project Manager
Associate Since 1988

Shannon Rice doesn’t have to look backward to revisit his favorite CSM Group memories. All he has to do is look through his windshield as he drives around West Michigan.

“For me, one of the most satisfying parts about working for CSM Group is having had the privilege and honor to work on so many wonderful buildings that are so much a part of the community. We’ve been trusted with a lot.”

With that, Shannon names several landmark structures that have had a major impact on the region, including the West Michigan Cancer Center, Battle Creek Health System, and several projects for the Bronson Healthcare Group, including the new hospital. Add projects for world-class local businesses like Upjohn, Stryker, and Kellogg, and for some of the region’s most respected institutions, including Western Michigan University and The Kalamazoo Gazette, and it’s easy to understand Shannon’s pride.

But it never feels better than when he’s out driving with his children, who will point excitedly out the window and say “Look, Dad, you did that one!”

Shannon points out that there is an intersection in Kalamazoo where buildings on three of the four corners are or were CSM Group projects. “There are guys who have been in construction all their lives who are retired now, and they still talk about the buildings they built. I can understand that! They are like your kids,” Shannon laughs.

“Our people are the best of the best, and we work on the best of the best. What more can you ask for?”

Tim Ankney , Group Vice President
Associate Since 1988

Tim Ankney’s CSM Group career is full of high points and fond memories. And it’s a pretty eclectic list!

One came in the mid 90s during an outing at Steve’s ranch, after a major company growth spurt. Tim was standing next to Steve, grilling burgers for everybody. Steve looked a little bewildered and remarked, “Look at all these people!” Tim knew what he was feeling. “It was a little scary, having responsibility for all those families; but it also felt very good to know we were impacting their lives and professional growth.”

Another memorable moment was at the old CSM Group office on Michigan Avenue, when a small staff celebrated the first month that the company had ever invoiced $1 million. “Wow, that was a BIG DEAL.” And Tim doesn’t want to forget that feeling. “Even though now we sometimes invoice ten times that, I don’t take it for granted; I remember what a darn lot of money it is, and how important it is to every client.”

Still another thing that means a great deal to Tim is the difference he believes CSM Group is making in the construction industry: a ripple effect that is elevating expectations and improving performance across the board. “Through our core values, programs, and just the way we deal with people, we’re raising the standards.”

Ankney feels that by always displaying integrity and facing up to problems responsibly, CSM Group is helping spread a more positive approach that helps everyone involved and leads to great results and great relationships. “It’s not about who’s right, it’s about what’s right.”

Todd McDonald , Group Vice President
Associate Since 1988

Todd McDonald can be forgiven if his very favorite CSM memory is the first Christmas party at Mountain Jack’s. After all, it was there that he became engaged to his wife, Julie. (And he claims it wasn’t just to avoid having to buy an expensive dinner out.)

Actually, the company Christmas parties do serve as an emotional point of reference for Todd, demonstrating the wonderful growth the company has enjoyed, and the ability to provide opportunities for more and more great people.

“Just thinking about being able to fit in one room at Mountain Jack’s early on, but now filling a banquet room at the Radisson, makes me proud of being part of all the great things that have afforded us the opportunities to make that happen,” he says.

Other fond memories? Nervously awaiting the decision on two renovation projects for Meijer, and finding out we had won them both—worth nearly twice what our total gross sales had been the year before.

Also, the excitement and tension of partnering with national construction firms on Battle Creek Health System; and of doing it well enough to provide the foundation of a close, rewarding relationship with BCHS that lasts to this day.

But, like virtually everyone else we talked to, Todd McDonald has one simple answer when asked what is the most special thing about CSM Group. “The people,” he replies. And you can tell he means it.