About
The Grant Company Inc.
Design-Build Partnerships
We firmly stand behind design-build partnerships, considering them the most advantageous choice for both clients and contractors. With approximately 85% of our projects negotiated, this approach eliminates additional expenses tied to the risk of hard bids, allowing clients to receive more value without shouldering those risk-related costs.
What sets us apart is our seamless collaboration with clients and the design team, often leveraging our in-house architectural firm, Zane Johnson Architecture (ZJA). This unique advantage enables us to actively contribute insights on costs and constructability during the design stage. By working closely with architects and engineers, we ensure that structures align with our clients’ budgets and significantly reduce the need for multiple plan revisions, thus saving both time and money.
In our approach to negotiated projects, we've honed a thorough process that ensures transparency and collaboration at every step. Upon establishing the foundational design, we present a preliminary estimate to our clients for review, encouraging them to contribute a wish-list and items that could be tailored into or omitted from the project.
Value engineering is integral to our methodology, allowing us to propose cost-effective construction alternatives when needed. Our subcontractors are also engaged to identify potential savings, further optimizing the project's efficiency.
To streamline costs without compromising quality, we self-perform a significant portion of the work. This not only enhances our control over quality and timelines but also proves cost-effective. We maintain strong relationships with a diverse network of suppliers and subcontractors, promptly paying our bills, to ensure preferred pricing from our trusted sources.
Once project costs and features are agreed upon, we provide our clients with a comprehensive, detailed estimate that offers practical insights into the entire project scope, including material quantities, fostering clarity and preventing misunderstandings. This collaborative process allows us to align with our clients' needs while adhering to their budgetary constraints, creating a win-win scenario for both client and contractor.
Our Crew's Approach
Being a construction company, safety is essential for the well-being of our employees and subcontractors. Our safety committee meets regularly to review concerns and upcoming regulation changes so we stay in compliance. Employees are trained in the various hazards they are exposed to. Weekly safety meetings are held to discuss the coming week’s tasks and risks, and subcontractors are required to hold safety meetings or join in ours. All of our employees are in a random pool for drug testing.
Our strict safety program is maintained and monitored by our worker’s compensation and liability carriers. This program keeps the labor costs low, and our crew injury-free. We are a fully bonded and insured by Anchor Insurance in Portland.
Our carpenters offer a broad range of skills. Some are excellent at concrete, others at framing, and other at finish work. We let the best guy for the job lead the task at hand, which changes constantly throughout the project. We even build custom church furniture pieces. The entire team of The Grant Company Inc. works with a team approach in a non-adversarial environment, which makes even the hardest project become a pleasant experience.
The Bottom Line: Our Goal is to Earn Your Trust & Your Business
The Grant Company Inc. reflects the management’s philosophy of honesty and professionalism in everything it does. Over the years, we have brought together high-quality men and women of exceptional integrity who accommodate our customers’ needs and work hard to refine your project. You will love working with our gentlemen crew, and we look forward to gaining your trust and partnership.
Meet Our Team
Christiane Kraemer Owner & President
Christiane Kraemer is dedicated to learning and improving within our company, having started her journey with us back in 1988, working her way up through various roles. As the daughter of our majority owners, who have been the driving force behind the company since its founding, Christiane is now stepping up to guide the company into its next chapter as her parents transition into retirement.
Beginning as a finish carpenter and cabinet installer, Christiane's experience has expanded across different roles over the past 25 years. She's had the opportunity to contribute in various capacities, from working hands-on to managing crucial office responsibilities. Wearing many hats, including owner, project manager, estimator, accountant, and more, Christiane endeavors to ensure the smooth functioning of our operations.
Her understanding of different facets of the business, combined with her hands-on experience, allows her to play a vital role in our ongoing success. Christiane is dedicated to supporting the team and steering us towards the future, embracing the next generation of our company's journey
Mike & Mary Grant Majority Owners
Established in 1987 by Mike and Mary, The Grant Company has roots deeply embedded in Mike's early construction experience. Hailing from a family of carpenters, Mike began his construction journey at 16, eventually working for various firms in the valley after college. Initially focusing on cabinet installations and high-end millwork, a pivotal moment occurred when architect and mentor Dave Richen sought Mike's expertise for a handrail on a chapel design. Following their discussion, Dave proposed an even bolder idea – constructing the entire building. This nudged Mike and Mary to expand and grow their company.
As the business evolved, Mike transitioned from hands-on construction to overseeing projects and estimating. Although mostly retired, he continues to contribute by assisting with complex estimates and overseeing operations when needed. Mary actively engages in company management, playing a vital role in making key decisions for the company's future.
Jay Augustus Owner/Project Manager/Sales
Since 2016, Jay Augustus has been an integral member of our company. Jay boasts a rich background in sales and project management, shaping his invaluable contributions to our team. Having served in the army during Desert Storm, Jay embodies dedication, discipline, and a natural talent for connecting with people. His prior experience as a lumber salesman has provided him with a vast understanding of material costs, further amplifying his role as an excellent estimator and strengthening his expertise in project management. Jay easily engages with clients, overseeing our sales department while skillfully managing ongoing projects. His ability to smoothly handle both roles is driven by his natural knack for building relationships, contributing significantly to our team.
Ron Meissner Owner/Head Superintendent
Ron, who became a part of our team in 1995, is not only our lead superintendent but also one of our owners. He demonstrates exceptional organizational skills, professionalism, and a strong commitment to safety. Ron's friendly and caring approach shines through in his interactions with customers and subcontractors. Whether it's a small-scale project or one as large as $20 million, Ron handles it with ease. His vast experience and versatility make him a key asset to our organization, and his positive demeanor contributes to a collaborative and enjoyable work environment.
Kaleb Dark Superintendent
Kaleb, an integral member of The Grant Company since 2015, serves as a superintendent for diverse projects. With a commitment to high standards, he started as an apprentice and worked his way up, gaining a deep understanding of each employee's experience level. Kaleb mentors and elevates skills with professionalism and authority. He establishes positive relationships with owner representatives and anticipates potential post-project issues, showcasing foresight for long-term success.
Justin Grant Owner/Maintenance
Justin, the son of Mike and Mary, may not have initially started as a carpenter, but carpentry is ingrained in his DNA. He officially joined the company in 2005, dedicating many years to fieldwork as a carpenter. Presently, his responsibilities are diverse and ever-changing. Justin manages equipment, oversees its relocation between jobs, engages in excavation, operates cranes, and lends a hand on various projects. In 2020, Justin took on the role of co-owner at The Grant Company.
Nic Miramontes Superintendent
Nic has progressed to the role of superintendent, concentrating on our mid-sized projects, and concurrently expanding his expertise in administrative tasks. His enthusiasm to refine these skills reflects his commitment to advancing in his career. Known for his friendly nature, Nic has cultivated positive relationships with our clients. Using his talent as an excellent finish carpenter, Nic's keen eye for detail makes sure every project turns out just right.
Lisa Stadeli Controller
In 2008, Lisa Stadeli became a vital part of our office staff, assuming responsibilities for payroll, accounts payable, and various other tasks crucial to the smooth operation of our office. Her role involves maintaining organization and accountability within the team. Furthermore, Lisa actively contributes to our safety committee, ensuring compliance across all job sites.
Lisa is the main contact for all billing related items. Please email her at [email protected].
Zane Johnson ZJA Architecture
Our introduction to Zane occurred during our collaboration on the Taylor Dale and A to Z Rex Hill project. Zane proved to be a bright, quick-thinking, and industrious individual. Initially serving as Ernie Munch's right-hand man while working towards his architect license, Zane faced a pivotal moment when Ernie retired and closed his firm. Despite holding his license, Zane was hesitant to join a large Portland-based firm. Recognizing the challenges of establishing his own extensive portfolio, especially as a young professional, he approached us with the idea of working out of our office running his own firm, Zane Johnson Architecture (ZJA). Zane gains the advantage of having mentorship and the ability to bounce constructability and cost input off us as he explores various design options. Additionally, he benefits from our extensive network of sources, contributing to his professional development.