History

1983

Hoeft Is Built

John and Jackie Hoeft formed Hoeft Builders, Inc., General Contractor in 1983. The company’s first project was a development in Spooner, Wisconsin that included a grocery store, gas station, restaurant, and retail building. The contracts were little more than handshakes, and the projects weren’t complete until the job was done right and the client was satisfied.  

1990

Finding Our Niche

During the 80s and 90s, Hoeft Builders specialized in constructing grocery stores and fast-food franchises across Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, and Illinois. Our reputation grew for delivering high-quality projects efficiently and cost-effectively.

1998

A Shift in Leadership

Following John Hoeft’s passing in 1998, his wife Jackie stepped in as the owner and manager, with valuable support from superintendent and long-time employee Ron Bluemel. During this period, the company shifted its focus to concentrate on projects within the Chippewa Valley.

2004

2nd Generation

In March of 2004, Peter Hoeft became the new owner and manager of Hoeft Builders, Inc. In his new role, Peter wanted to create a focus on helping local and regional businesses grow alongside Hoeft. He had a vision of expanding the company’s scope and services, while continuing to keep the relationships built along the way at the cornerstone of the business.

2003

We Build Business

While sorting through his late father’s papers, Peter Hoeft found a note that said, “We don’t build buildings. We build businesses.” This simple, yet profound statement captured the essence of what Hoeft Builders stands for. 

Trademarked as “We Build Business,” it symbolizes our commitment to more than just construction. It represents our dedication to fostering strong client relationships, guiding them through the construction process, and celebrating their business growth along the way. This philosophy remains at the heart of everything we do. 

2004

First Multifamily Project

In September 2004, Hoeft Builders secured its first multifamily contract—constructing 32 residential condominiums in Northwest Wisconsin. This $7 million project marked the beginning of many significant, large-scale ventures for the company.

2004

Real Estate Development

In 2004, Peter Hoeft and Robb Majeski created Cottagewood Group, a real estate development firm. In 2005, they bought their first building together. It was a medical office that Hoeft Builders would later remodel. This project inspired both Hoeft Builders and Cottagewood Group to concentrate on healthcare as a primary focus in their work. 

2005

Market Expansion

In the late 2000s, Hoeft Builders ventured into a variety of new markets. During this period, we undertook projects in multifamily, financial, medical, senior living, retail, and more, broadening our expertise and service offerings.

2008

Hoeft Builders West

In 2008, Patrick Hoeft, John’s second son, expanded the family business by opening Hoeft Builders West in Avon, Colorado. This branch focuses on constructing luxury residential properties in the Vail Valley, as well as building hyperbaric chambers throughout the entire United States.

2009

River Prairie Development

In 2009, Peter Hoeft and Robb Majeski bought 60 acres of the River Prairie Development in Altoona, Wisconsin. This parcel of land was known as the Northeast Quadrant and they had a vision to turn it into a premier Class A office park.

2010

Expanding Into Industrial & Healthcare

In the early 2010s, Hoeft Builders expanded its portfolio to include projects in the industrial/manufacturing and healthcare sectors. These areas have since become fundamental to our business, and we have developed significant expertise and experience in these markets over the years.

2013

Small Business of the Year

In 2013, the Eau Claire Chamber of Commerce presented Hoeft Builders, Inc. with the Small Business of the Year Award. This award was a huge honor to receive as it commemorated 30 years of hard work and growth.

2013

Hoeft Moves to Altoona

After 30 years in business, we constructed a new corporate office, becoming one of the first companies to develop the NE Quadrant of River Prairie. We occupied this office for five years before expanding and moving to a new, larger office just across the street.

2018

A Shift In Leadership

In 2018, Hoeft expanded its leadership roles.

• After 9 years with Hoeft, in both superintendent and project manager roles, Jay Rideout (left) became a partner and the President of Hoeft Builders, Inc.
• After 6 years with the company, as a project manager, Luke Rykal (right) became a partner and the Vice President of Hoeft Builders, Inc.
• Peter Hoeft (center) remains the CEO.

2022

The Completion of River Prairie

In 2022, Hoeft Builders completed the Northeast Quadrant of the River Prairie Development. Hoeft acted as the developer and/or general contractor for the builds for 19 businesses. Throughout this process, Hoeft took careful consideration to keep architectural and environmental control in order to maintain their vision of a premier Class A office park. 

2020

The Sevens Development

In 2022, Hoeft Builders purchased a 47-acre plot of land on the south side of Eau Claire, Wisconsin, at the Highway 53 and Interstate 94 interchange. This land will be known as The Sevens and will be the home of multifamily, medical, corporate offices, hospitality, the new Hoeft Builders headquarters, and more.

2024

Hoeft Southeast

In 2024, we expanded our reach by opening Hoeft Southeast in Nashville, Tennessee. This office enhances our ability to serve the Southeast region more effectively, reflecting our commitment to growth and client services.

Located in a rapidly developing area, Hoeft Southeast allows us to deliver our high-quality commercial construction services with greater efficiency and local insight. This expansion marks a significant milestone in our journey, positioning us to build stronger relationships and tackle exciting new projects throughout the Southeast.

2024

The Hoeft of Today

With over 40 years of experience, Hoeft Builders proudly delivers a comprehensive range of services, including construction management, general contracting, design-build, self-perform carpentry, and real estate development across the country. Our dedication to excellence and client satisfaction have been the cornerstone of our success.

Today, we remain deeply committed to serving our communities and fostering business growth. As we look to the future, we are excited to continue building on our legacy and contributing to the success of our clients for generations to come.