Okland Construction expands ownership to employees

Okland Construction, a family-owned and privately held general contractor with more than 100 years of history, announced it is expanding its ownership structure to include its team members through an employee stock ownership plan (ESOP). The announcement was shared with employees during Okland’s semi-annual company meeting, marking the moment as the firm transitions to employee ownership.

The company is building on its legacy of craftsmanship and a commitment to creating remarkable experiences for its people and the communities it serves, while creating new opportunities for those shaping its future, the company said.

“What started as a family business is still a family business. That hasn’t changed and it’s not going to change,” Bill Okland, CEO of Okland Construction, said in a release. “This decision is about strengthening that foundation, not replacing it. The people who have helped us grow now have the opportunity to share in that success.”

Under the new structure, Okland will remain family-led, with its leadership team, operations and long-term strategy unchanged. The partial ESOP introduces a way for team members to participate in the company’s future through a company-funded ownership benefit designed to build long-term value over time.

“This isn’t a sale of the company, and it doesn’t change who we are,” Brett Okland, company president, said in a release. “We’re not stepping away. We’re leaning in. What’s changing is who shares in our success we create together; what’s not changing is the remarkable experience we strive to create for our clients, partners and community.”

Founded in 1918, Okland has grown from a small carpentry operation into a leading builder across the Southwest and Mountain West, supported by a team of more than 1,300 professionals delivering complex projects in healthcare, advanced technology, sports, higher education and commercial development.

The firm’s recent momentum reflects that trajectory, including recognition as Intermountain Contractor of the Year in 2025, a No. 4 ranking in Engineering News-Record’s Southwest region, and repeated “Best Place to Work” honors across its Utah, Arizona and Idaho offices. That growth, company leaders say, has always been driven by its people.

“As the work grew, it became clear we couldn’t do it alone,” Bill Okland added. “This company has always been built by people who take pride in what they do and how they do it. This is about recognizing that and carrying it forward.”