Business Details
43 Years
experience
Trusted Construction Services in Dubuque, IA
Portzen Construction has been a trusted name in the construction industry since 1983, delivering high-quality commercial and industrial projects across Iowa and Southwestern Wisconsin. Our expertise spans general contracting, construction management, and design-build services, with specialized capabilities in concrete, excavating, carpentry, and plumbing/hydronics. By self-performing critical aspects of our projects, we maintain control over quality, timelines, and cost efficiency while providing value-added solutions for clients. Our team brings decades of collective experience in constructing schools, hospitals, water/wastewater facilities, and flood mitigation infrastructure, among other complex structures. As the largest union contractor in the Dubuque area, we prioritize skilled labor, safety, and adherence to industry standards.Our reputation for completing projects on schedule and within budget has earned us long-term partnerships with clients ranging from local governments to private developers. We are committed to transparency, ethical practices, and maintaining open communication throughout every project phase. Our leadership team combines technical expertise with a dedication to innovation, ensuring we meet evolving client needs while upholding our founding principles. With certifications in safety and compliance, we serve as a reliable partner for projects requiring precision and accountability. Our portfolio reflects our ability to tackle diverse challenges, from streetscape revitalization to medical gas piping, with consistent excellence.
Services
General Contracting
Excavating
Concrete
Plumbing
Carpentry
Details
- Year established: 1983
Highlights and features
- We self-perform 80% of construction work, ensuring quality control and cost efficiency.
- Our team holds certifications in safety and compliance for industrial projects.
- We specialize in complex projects like wastewater treatment facilities and medical gas systems.
- We maintain union partnerships for skilled labor and timely project completion.
- Our 40+ years of experience spans schools, hospitals, and infrastructure across three states.
Associations and certifications
- Associated General Contractors of America
- Iowa Concrete Paving Association
- Master Builders of Iowa
What people say
Speed and quality of work
Knowledge and expertise
On schedule and within budget
Services
General Contracting
Portzen Construction provides full-service general contracting for commercial and industrial projects. Our team manages every phase from design to completion, specializing in schools, hospitals, and infrastructure. With in-house expertise in concrete, excavating, and plumbing, we ensure seamless coordination and cost efficiency. Clients benefit from our 40+ years of experience and union partnerships for skilled labor.
Concrete Services
Our concrete division handles flatwork, structural pours, paving, and tilt-up panels for roads, foundations, and industrial facilities. Using advanced techniques and materials, we deliver durable, code-compliant results. Projects include streetscapes, parking lots, and commercial building foundations across Iowa and Wisconsin.
Excavating
Portzen offers full-scale excavating services including demolition, utility installation, and site grading. We handle storm sewers, water mains, and building foundations with precision equipment and skilled operators. Our work supports infrastructure projects, commercial developments, and flood mitigation systems.
Plumbing
Through our Dubuque Plumbing & Heating division, we provide commercial and industrial plumbing, hydronic heating, and medical gas systems. Our certified technicians install process piping and heating solutions for hospitals, manufacturing plants, and large facilities.
Carpentry
Our carpentry team performs rough and finish work, including framing, drywall, and Duro-Last roofing. Services cover residential, commercial, and industrial structures, with expertise in steel studs and custom cabinetry for diverse project needs.
People
Mike Portzen
Chairman of the Board
Founder of Portzen Construction with 40+ years of experience in commercial and industrial construction. Known for mathematical precision and project management excellence, he established the company's reputation for quality and reliability.
JR Portzen
President
Leads daily operations with a focus on client relationships and project execution. Brings decades of construction management experience, ensuring adherence to budgets and timelines for complex infrastructure projects.
Jayme Kluesner
Chief Financial Officer
Manages financial strategy and compliance for Portzen Construction. Oversees budgeting, accounting, and risk management to support the company's growth and long-term stability.
Adam Portzen
Vice President
Coordinates project delivery and operational efficiency. Leverages hands-on construction experience to oversee teams and ensure alignment with client expectations and industry standards.
Travis Kraus
Plumbing Estimator/Project Manager
Specializes in plumbing and hydronics project planning. Provides cost estimates and manages execution for commercial and industrial systems, ensuring technical accuracy and client satisfaction.
Questions
What types of construction projects does Portzen specialize in?
We focus on commercial, industrial, and infrastructure projects including schools, hospitals, water treatment facilities, and industrial buildings.
Do you handle projects outside of Iowa?
Yes, we serve Southwestern Wisconsin and have completed projects across the Midwest region.
What sets Portzen apart from other contractors?
Our ability to self-perform 80% of work ensures quality control, cost efficiency, and faster project timelines.
Are you a union contractor?
Yes, we are the largest union contractor in Dubuque, partnering with skilled tradespeople for reliable results.
