Florida

Owen-Ames-Kimball Co. has been named a recipient of the 2026 Southwest Florida INCredible Award, recognizing businesses that excel in their industries while making a meaningful impact through community leadership and service.

Presented annually, the Southwest Florida INCredible Awards celebrate organizations that demonstrate exceptional business success, strong workplace culture, and an ongoing commitment to giving back throughout Lee, Collier and Charlotte counties.

O-A-K, an employee-owned commercial construction firm serving Southwest Florida since 1982, was recognized for its people-first culture, long-standing community partnerships, and commitment to building projects that strengthen the region. With 82 employees in its Florida division, the company provides construction management, general contracting, and design-build services for educational, healthcare, nonprofit, aviation, and public-sector clients.

“We are honored to receive this recognition,” said Jim Hopper, Florida Division President of O-A-K. “This award reflects the dedication of our employee-owners and the relationships we’ve built throughout Southwest Florida over the past four decades. We believe construction is about more than buildings — it’s about creating spaces that support communities, improve lives, and contribute to the future of our region.”

O-A-K’s culture emphasizes employee development, collaboration, and long-term career growth. The company offers extensive professional development opportunities, mentorship, continuing education support, comprehensive benefits, and an employee ownership model that encourages accountability and shared success.

Beyond construction, O-A-K maintains a strong commitment to community involvement. Through board leadership, volunteering, and charitable giving, the company and its employee-owners actively support numerous nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, and community initiatives across Southwest Florida.

O-A-K has completed numerous landmark projects throughout the region, including educational facilities, public infrastructure, healthcare environments, aviation projects, and nonprofit campuses that serve residents for generations to come.

Owen-Ames-Kimball’s Florida operation is an affiliate of its parent company headquartered in Grand Rapids, Michigan, with offices in Collier and Lee counties. Its Lee County office is located at 11941 Fairway Lakes Drive in Fort Myers. Learn more about O-A-K at www.owen-ames-kimball.com or call (239) 561-4141.

Owen-Ames-Kimball Co., alongside Hendry County School District leaders, elected officials, students, and community members, celebrated the groundbreaking of the new LaBelle High School on Tuesday, April 28, marking a significant milestone in the future of education in Hendry County.

Held at the future campus site on Helms Road, formerly orange groves owned and farmed by the Hansen family, the ceremony honored both the community’s agricultural roots and its forward-looking investment in education.

The program included a presentation of colors, an invocation by Reverend Preston Long Jr., remarks from district, school leadership, a LaBelle High School student, and the Mayor of LaBelle followed by the official ceremonial groundbreaking.

Attendees enjoyed a performance by the LaBelle High School Vaquero Jazz Ensemble and refreshments prepared by the school’s culinary students. Additional student groups represented included the Public Service Academy, Future Farmers of America, and Student Government, highlighting the diverse opportunities available to students.

The new LaBelle High School represents a $123 million investment and will include a state-of-the-art, 220,000-square-foot campus designed to serve approximately 1,500 students. The modern facility will replace the existing high school, originally built in the 1970s, and will feature advanced academic classrooms, career and technical education spaces, athletics facilities, and enhanced safety and accessibility features.

“This project represents a major milestone for Hendry County,” said Michael Swindle, Superintendent of Hendry County School District. “While our team had not previously built a new high school, Owen-Ames-Kimball has been an outstanding partner, guiding us through every step of the process with expertise, transparency, and a true commitment to our community. We are deeply grateful to our state legislators, School Board members, County Commissioners, and City Commissioners for working together to make this new campus a reality.”

“Owen-Ames-Kimball is proud to partner with the Hendry County School District on a project that will have a lasting impact on students, families, and the entire LaBelle community,” said Jim Hopper, President of O-A-K’s Florida Division. “This new campus is more than a building—it represents opportunity, growth, and a commitment to preparing students for the future through modern learning environments and hands-on career pathways.”

Notably, three members of the O-A-K project team are graduates of LaBelle High School, bringing a personal connection and deep sense of pride to the project as they help build the future of their hometown.

“This is not just a construction site—it is the foundation of our future and the beginning of a new era for our community,” said Tammy Bass, Principal of LaBelle High School. “Our students are dedicated, hardworking, and incredibly talented. They will excel in an environment that reflects their potential—a professional setting that matches their ambition. They are absolutely worth it.”

Construction management for the project is being led by Owen-Ames-Kimball, in partnership with Grace Design Studios, LLC, and Rock Enterprises, LLC. The collaborative team will deliver a campus designed to support both academic excellence and workforce readiness.

The new LaBelle High School is anticipated to finish construction at the end of 2027, providing generations of students with a modern, safe, and inspiring place to learn and grow.

Owen-Ames-Kimball’s Florida operation is an affiliate of its parent company headquartered in Grand Rapids, Michigan, with offices in Collier and Lee counties. Its Lee County office is located at 11941 Fairway Lakes Drive in Fort Myers. Learn more about O-A-K at www.owen-ames-kimball.com or call (239) 561-4141.

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Owen-Ames-Kimball Co. (O-A-K) is in the final stretch of construction on the 31,000-square-foot expansion of Cape Coral Technical College, located at 360 Santa Barbara Boulevard in Cape Coral. The project is on track to be completed in time for the fall 2026 school year and represents the first major addition to the campus since it opened in 1993.

The expansion will strengthen workforce training opportunities across Southwest Florida by providing hands-on education and industry-recognized credentials in high-demand skilled trades. At full capacity, Cape Coral Technical College will serve up to 500 students annually, preparing graduates for viable, family-supporting careers while helping address critical workforce shortages throughout the region.

Construction milestones achieved to date include:

• Roofing completed
• Interior and exterior painting underway
• Exterior garage doors, man doors, and storefront installation completed
• Interior electrical, HVAC, fire protection, and plumbing systems approximately 75% complete
• Drywall hanging and finishing completed

The construction team’s goal is to receive the Certificate of Occupancy by July 1, allowing classrooms and specialized training labs to be fully equipped and prepared ahead of welcoming students in August.

“The expansion of Cape Coral Technical College represents a significant investment in the future workforce of Southwest Florida,” said Jim Hopper,  Florida Division President, Owen-Ames-Kimball. “Projects like this create real opportunity, giving students access to hands-on training that leads directly to meaningful careers while helping local industries meet the growing demand for skilled professionals. Owen-Ames-Kimball is proud to partner with the School District of Lee County on a project that will have such a lasting impact on students, businesses, and the economic future of our region.”

The expansion will introduce six new skilled-trades programs, including:

• Construction trades
• Welding
• HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning)
• Automotive repair and service
• Marine service technology
• Additional construction industry training programs

Developed in partnership with local industry leaders, the programs are designed to directly address workforce needs across Southwest Florida.

Key benefits of the expansion include:

• More than 150 additional students per year gaining access to trade certifications
• Many programs designed to be completed in approximately one year, allowing graduates to quickly enter the workforce
• Expanded dual-enrollment opportunities, enabling high school seniors to earn industry certifications while still in school

“We’re proud to introduce postsecondary ‘blue collar’ skilled-trades training programs to Cape Coral for the first time. Our ‘Career in a Year’ model is designed to equip students with in-demand, practical skills while they earn recognized industry certifications. Each program culminates in a career certificate diploma approved by the Florida Department of Education, preparing graduates to enter the workforce quickly and confidently,” said Charlie Pease, Director, Cape Coral Technical College.

Cape Coral is one of Florida’s fastest-growing cities, and the region continues to face significant shortages of skilled workers in fields such as construction, marine service, HVAC, and automotive technology. The expansion will help build a local pipeline of trained technicians and tradespeople to support the area’s continued growth.

Upon completion, the expanded campus will stand as a lasting investment in education, economic mobility, and workforce development throughout Southwest Florida.

For more information about Cape Coral Technical College, visit www.capecoraltech.edu.

Owen-Ames-Kimball’s Florida operation is an affiliate of its parent company headquartered in Grand Rapids, Michigan, with offices in Collier and Lee counties. Its Lee County office is located at 11941 Fairway Lakes Drive in Fort Myers. Learn more about O-A-K at www.owen-ames-kimball.com or call (239)561-4141.

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Owen-Ames-Kimball (O-A-K) has completed Phase II renovations of the Cohen Student Union at Florida Gulf Coast University. The new updates deliver a revitalized, student-centered space designed to foster connection, collaboration, and campus engagement, while finishing the project one month ahead of schedule.

Originally constructed by O-A-K more than 20 years ago, the Cohen Student Union holds long-standing significance for the firm. FGCU’s decision to partner once again with O-A-K for this next phase reflects the strength of that relationship and confidence in the firm’s ability to deliver complex renovations in an active campus environment. The project was designed by RG Architects.

Phase II renovations focused on enhancing gathering and meeting spaces throughout the facility. A major component of the project included enclosing the former outdoor atrium located between Einstein Bros. Bagels and the food court, transforming it into a bright, modern interior entry space. Visitors are now welcomed by a new seating area and a relocated information booth that improves functionality and flow.

The renovated interior features high ceilings, expansive windows, circular pendant lighting, and a long counter with seating. A newly constructed staircase connects the first and second floors, improving circulation and visibility within the student union.

The second floor now includes three conference-style rooms that provide collaborative meeting space for students and student organizations, along with a new seating area overlooking the first floor.

Construction was completed in 11 months, ahead of the original 12-month schedule, despite the need to coordinate work around weekly campus events. O-A-K credits this success to close collaboration with FGCU’s Facilities and Events teams, whose partnership helped maintain steady progress throughout the project.

“We are proud to return to the Cohen Student Union and deliver updates that support FGCU’s students and campus life,” said Jim Hopper, Florida Division President of Owen-Ames-Kimball. “Completing this renovation ahead of schedule speaks to the strength of our partnership with FGCU and the dedication of our project team—many of whom have deep personal ties to the university.”

O-A-K extends special recognition to its project team, including Brian Filipek, Carlos Rapalo—both FGCU graduates—Ferrell Clark, Marco Garcia, and several FGCU interns who contributed meaningfully throughout the project.

In keeping with O-A-K’s commitment to workforce development and education, the firm hosted multiple FGCU Construction Management classes on-site during construction, providing students with firsthand exposure to an active renovation project and real-world learning experience.

O-A-K’s Florida operation is an affiliate of its parent company in Grand Rapids, Michigan, with offices in Collier and Lee counties. Its Lee County office is located at 11941 Fairway Lakes Drive in Fort Myers. Learn more about O-A-K at www.owen-ames-kimball.com or call (239) 561-4141.

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Cory O’Donnell, Marketing Manager at Owen‑Ames‑Kimball (O‑A‑K), has been appointed to the Board of Directors of the Cape Coral Chamber of Commerce, further strengthening the company’s long-standing commitment to the Cape Coral business community and regional partnerships.

O’Donnell brings more than 20 years of experience in communications, marketing, and community engagement in Southwest Florida. In his role at O‑A‑K, he leads storytelling, brand strategy, and community outreach efforts, helping connect the company’s projects and people with the communities they serve.

His involvement with the Chamber extends beyond board service. O’Donnell currently serves on the Chamber’s Education Committee and has been a visible advocate for student achievement, acting as emcee for the 33rd Annual Cape Coral Chamber Excellence in Education Awards in 2025 and returning in May 2026. He also serves on the Board of Directors for the Cape Coral Mayor’s Scholarship Fund, supporting local students in pursuing higher education.

In addition to his Chamber leadership, O’Donnell has played an active role in regional development and professional organizations. He previously served on the management committee for ULI Southwest Florida and co-chaired its Communications Committee, helping shape conversations around smart growth and community development across the region. He is a former member of The News-Press/Naples News Editorial Board, the founder and former chair of The News-Press Young Professionals Advisory Board and a Leadership SWFL and Leadership Cape Coral alumni.

“Cory’s appointment reflects both his personal dedication to this community and O‑A‑K’s belief in being more than a builder — we are partners in the places where we work,” said Jim Hopper, Florida Division President, Owen‑Ames‑Kimball. “His passion for education, communication, and community connection aligns perfectly with the Chamber’s mission to strengthen local businesses and our regional economy.”

O’Donnell was officially sworn in alongside fellow board members and trustees during the Cape Coral Chamber’s Chairman’s Gala on January 31. At the same event, O‑A‑K was honored as a finalist for Large Business of the Year — a recognition that underscores the company’s continued investment in Cape Coral and its support of local businesses and community initiatives.

Through O’Donnell’s leadership and service, O‑A‑K continues to deepen its roots in Cape Coral, reinforcing its commitment to building not only high-quality facilities, but also lasting community relationships.

O‑A‑K’s Florida division is an affiliate of its parent company in Grand Rapids, Michigan, with offices in Collier and Lee counties. Its Lee County office is located at 11941 Fairway Lakes Drive in Fort Myers. To learn more about O‑A‑K, visit www.owen‑ames‑kimball.com or call (239) 561-4141.

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Owen‑Ames‑Kimball (O‑A‑K) Florida Division, an employee-owned construction firm serving Southwest Florida since 1982, is pleased to announce that Keri Looker has joined the team as Business Development Manager for Naples and Collier County.

Looker brings more than 20 years of marketing, business development, and client-focused experience in the Southwest Florida architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry. In her new role, she will lead growth initiatives and expand O‑A‑K’s presence in the Collier County market, with a focus on cultivating long-term relationships and new opportunities across sectors including education, healthcare, aviation, government, and private development.

She most recently served as Director of Marketing for Naples-based RWA, Inc., where she led strategic business development, branding, and client engagement efforts for civil engineering and land planning projects throughout Collier and Lee counties.

“Keri’s deep understanding of the Southwest Florida market, combined with her strategic mindset and relationship-driven approach, makes her an excellent addition to our Florida Division,” said Jim Hopper, President of Owen‑Ames‑Kimball Florida Division. “She brings energy, insight, and a genuine commitment to community that aligns perfectly with our values. We are excited to have her on board as we continue to grow our presence in Collier County and the region.”

As Business Development Manager, Looker plays a vital role within O‑A‑K’s Business Development & Marketing department and works closely with the Sr. Director of Business Development & Marketing, Client Relations, Preconstruction, and Operations leadership to position the firm as the builder of choice in Southwest Florida. The role goes beyond traditional sales, offering a strategic opportunity to influence market direction, strengthen community partnerships, and support O‑A‑K’s long-term growth.

Looker holds a Master of Business Administration from Florida Gulf Coast University and a Bachelor of Arts from the University of North Florida’s Coggin College of Business. She is actively involved in the Collier Building Industry Foundation, the Collier County Community Land Trust, and Urban Land Institute Southwest Florida, reflecting her commitment to responsible growth and community building.

Since 1982, Owen‑Ames‑Kimball Company has provided premier general contracting, design-build, and construction management services in Southwest Florida. O‑A‑K specializes in community-driven construction projects and offers an inclusive, intentional, and customized experience. An employee-owned company, O‑A‑K Florida, Inc.’s board of directors is comprised of members from its Florida operations.

O‑A‑K’s Florida Division is an affiliate of its parent company in Grand Rapids, Michigan, with offices in Collier and Lee counties. Its Collier County office is located at 5100 Tamiami Trail North, Suite 103, Naples, FL 34103. To learn more about O‑A‑K, visit www.owen‑ames‑kimball.com or call (239) 304-9746.

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