Business Details
24 Years
experience
Trusted Construction Services in Chicago, IL
UJAMAA Construction, founded in 2002, is a leading general contracting and construction management firm dedicated to rebuilding communities through innovative and socially responsible practices. With operations in the Midwest and Southeast regions, the company specializes in institutional, commercial, residential, and industrial projects, emphasizing diversity, sustainability, and community engagement. Their approach combines technical expertise with a commitment to safety, quality, and timely project delivery. The leadership team brings decades of industry experience, fostering a culture of collaboration, learning, and trust.UJAMAA Construction has completed over 1,000 projects, including LEED-certified buildings and historical renovations, while maintaining a 70% repeat client rate. Their community initiatives include youth training programs, disaster relief efforts, and partnerships with local organizations. The company holds certifications as a Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) and Established Business Enterprise (EBE), reflecting its dedication to diversity and inclusion. With offices in Chicago and Atlanta, UJAMAA Construction continues to set industry standards for excellence and social responsibility.
Services
General Contracting
Construction Management
Design-Build
Historical Renovations
Value Engineering
Program Management
Community Engagement
Self-Perform Carpentry
Sustainability
Details
- Year established: 2002
Highlights and features
- 20+ years of experience in diverse construction sectors
- Certified MBE/EBE with a focus on diversity and inclusion
- LEED-certified projects and sustainable building expertise
- Community-driven initiatives with local hiring programs
- 70% of clients return for repeat projects
Associations and certifications
- Minority Business Enterprise (MBE)
- Established Business Enterprise (EBE)
What people say
Reliable project delivery
Strong community focus
Diversity commitment
Experienced team
Quality outcomes
Services
General Contracting
UJAMAA Construction provides client-focused general contracting services, managing complex projects in diverse environments. Their team ensures constant communication, budget adherence, and quality outcomes through a network of trusted subcontractors. Projects range from mid-sized multi-family buildings to large-scale industrial facilities.
Construction Management
The company offers open-book construction management, prioritizing transparency and collaboration. They coordinate all project variables to ensure timely delivery, safety compliance, and adherence to budget and quality standards. Their approach benefits clients through cost savings and streamlined communication.
Design-Build
UJAMAA's design-build service integrates architects and contractors under one contract, enhancing accountability and collaboration. This method is ideal for fast-track schedules or occupied workspaces, ensuring projects meet design specifications while minimizing disruptions.
Historical Renovations
Specializing in historical renovations, the company restores culturally significant structures while modernizing them to current standards. Their expertise includes careful planning and attention to detail, preserving architectural integrity while meeting contemporary functionality requirements.
Sustainability
UJAMAA Construction leads in LEED-certified projects and sustainable practices. Their team provides energy retrofit solutions, infrastructure upgrades, and M/E/P systems modernization. The corporate headquarters is LEED-certified, reflecting their commitment to reducing ecological impact.
People
Jimmy Akintonde
President & CEO
Founder of UJAMAA Construction in 2002, Jimmy Akintonde holds an Architecture degree from IIT and completed MBA courses at Purdue. He leads with a focus on social responsibility and has received numerous industry awards. He chairs community initiatives and drives the company's vision.
Todd Pressley
Co-Principal & Executive Vice President
With 30+ years in construction, Todd Pressley oversees operations and management. He holds an MBA from Baruch College and a BS from Cornell. He founded UJAMAA's Atlanta office and serves on multiple industry boards, promoting workforce development.
Ron Lewis
Vice President & Corporate Director of Safety
Ron Lewis, a LEED AP professional with a Construction Management degree from Bradley University, leads UJAMAA's safety programs. He has reduced safety incidents significantly and specializes in healthcare facility design, ensuring compliance and risk management.
Les Bates
Vice President
Les Bates brings 30+ years of construction experience to UJAMAA. He holds advanced degrees in Civil Engineering from the University of Illinois. His role involves strategic planning, project management, and client relations, ensuring successful project execution from inception to completion.
Marcus Evans
Director of Diversity & Community Engagement
Marcus Evans, with a Master of Public Administration from Roosevelt University, leads diversity initiatives and community outreach. He partners with agencies to advance equity in construction and serves on boards like the Chicagoland General Contractors Association.
Questions
What types of construction projects does UJAMAA specialize in?
UJAMAA Construction specializes in institutional, commercial, residential, and industrial projects, including historical renovations and LEED-certified buildings.
Does UJAMAA offer services outside the Midwest?
Yes, UJAMAA operates in the Southeast US, including Georgia, Alabama, Tennessee, North Carolina, and South Carolina.
Is UJAMAA a certified minority-owned business?
Yes, UJAMAA is certified as a Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) and Established Business Enterprise (EBE) in Illinois.
How does UJAMAA support community development?
UJAMAA supports community initiatives through youth training programs, local hiring, disaster relief, and partnerships with organizations like Genesis Housing Development Corporation.
What safety certifications does UJAMAA hold?
UJAMAA staff have OSHA 30-hour, CPR/First Aid, and ASHE Healthcare Constructor certifications, with an Associate Safety Professional on staff.
Can subcontractors partner with UJAMAA?
Yes, UJAMAA partners with subcontractors through a prequalification process, emphasizing diversity and quality in project execution.
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