Since 1973, JKC has served as the excavation division to many of Chicago’s top general contractors, providing world-class site preparation, excavation, demolition, structural earthwork and shoreline development on projects that have remade Chicago’s skyline, landscape and shoreline.
With state-of-the-art equipment, meticulous processes, and a decades-long track record of reliable execution, JKC has set the pace for other contractors on many of the area’s largest and most complex projects: at O’Hare International Airport, Argonne National Laboratory, The Obama Presidential Center, the University of Chicago, and countless other landmarks, facilities, data centers, and mansion shorelines.
Among the keys to our success over five decades:
- Proper preconstruction preparation and scope review
- Commitment to and alignment with client goals
- Agile execution and a diligent approach to deadlines, documentation and safety
- A “Can Do, Will Do” approach to solving problems rooted in founder John Keno’s military experience
Excavation’s dirty little secret: even with the best planning and execution, unforeseen problems can be encountered when you dig into the ground. Do you want to work with an excavator who is stumped by every complication, leaving you to figure it out? When you work with JKC, you get a seasoned partner with a track record of preventing and managing complications thoroughly, carefully and expediently.
Certifications
JKC is a third-generation family-owned business, veteran owned, and certified business enterprise for people with disabilities partner certified by:
NVBDC
Certified Veteran Owned
CVE
VOSB Certified
State of Illinois
PBE Certified
Lake County
DECI Certified
City of Chicago
BEDP Certified
Licensed CDOT Public Way Work
Licensed Drainlayer
Values
Integrity
We are accountable and operate with intent for all parties to succeed.
Innovation
We operate with forward thinking, innovative solutions that embrace the latest technology.
Teamwork
We’re fun, operating internally as a team and as a professional partner to our clients. Idea generating, unconditional cooperation for success, and leadership with safety for all is our #1 concern.
