Client-centric construction services delivering efficient and cost-effective building solutions
Gundlach Champion Inc. (GCI) provides comprehensive construction services for businesses and institutions in the Upper Peninsula, delivering high-quality, timely, and cost-effective solutions backed by local expertise and with integrity. With over 125 years of experience, GCI remains a family-oriented, reliable construction partner, ensuring seamless project execution from start to finish. This century old business model has built trusted relationships with clients through exceptional service and a deep understanding of local community needs.
Since 1898, Gundlach Champion has managed complex projects across the commercial, education, healthcare, industrial, tribal, and public facility sectors. We provide a one-stop-shop approach covering preconstruction, construction management, design/build, general contracting, and building maintenance. The GCI team brings over 350 years of combined experience to every commercial construction project, from new buildings to renovations, with a commitment to safety, quality, customer service, and integrity.
GCI provides construction services throughout the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. We would be pleased to discuss your project with you.
Our construction services
Preconstruction
Preconstruction services are used to plan a project prior to any actual construction beginning and include more than just construction
cost estimating.
Construction Management
With the Construction Management Delivery Method, the owner selects a Construction Manager (CM) based on his or
her qualifications.
Design/Build
With the "Design Build" option (also referred to as a Turn-Key Contract), the contractor, architect, and engineer are allied, working together to serve the owner.
General Contracting
When working with the General Contracting (GC) Delivery Method, the owner hires a general contractor to supervise and build a project from a design provided by the owner.
Building Maintenance
We can provide any size crew necessary to perform maintenance operations during temporary shutdowns, while existing operations continue, and after normal working hours.
A tradition of exceptional construction services
Gundlach Champion (GCI) is the marriage of two of the nation’s most storied and inventive construction firms: Herman Gundlach, Inc. founded in 1898, and Champion, Inc. founded in 1921 – the latter company with corporate roots that stretch back to 1909.
Herman Gundlach, Inc.
Herman Gundlach, Inc. was founded in Houghton, Michigan as a commercial and residential construction company with high standards of ethics and performance.
Champion, Inc.
The roots of Champion, Inc. are traced to 1909 when the M. J. Bacco Construction Company of Iron Mountain, Michigan began building roads in the Upper Midwest of the United States.
Champion Gravel Company
As a result of increased need for aggregate to build roads, Bacco, son of Italian immigrant Angelo Bacco, formed Champion Gravel Company in partnership with the Spear family of Marquette, Michigan. A young Louie Verrette, the nephew of Medio Bacco, and only 14 years old, began his career with the Champion Gravel Company as the new assistant timekeeper.
Champion, Inc. President
The current owner Bill Verrette, son of Louie, was named president of Champion, Inc.
Marriage of Champion and Gundlach
Champion, Inc. acquired Herman Gundlach, Inc., a longtime competitor and corporate friend with a similar work ethic and high standards of performance. We have since expanded our offerings to include a suite of professional industry services.
We offer construction services throughout the Northern Great Lakes Region. Please contact us to discuss your construction project.
Over 125 years of consistent, reliable, and innovative construction services in the Upper Peninsula
Throughout its history, Gundlach Champion has consistently demonstrated the capability to complete high quality projects reliably, safely, on time, and within budget. Our in-depth knowledge of building in the challenging conditions of the U.P. has been learned over decades of regional experience. We have earned a reputation for exceptional communication and customer service, resulting in long-term client loyalty.
GCI’s deep ties with outstanding trades and suppliers within the local community to strengthen and support the region.
Delivery methods to meet the demands of your construction project
By offering clients a variety of delivery methods, including Construction Management, Design/Build, and General Contracting, GCI is able to tailor its services to meet the unique needs and schedule requirements of your project.
GCI works throughout the Upper Peninsula. We would be pleased to discuss your construction project with you.