Owen-Ames-Kimball Co. (O-A-K), local professional construction firm, announces the completion of the first project managed out of their new Kalamazoo office. The renovation project for Eaton’s Galesburg location included the transformation of a former conference room and office space into a new 1,800 square foot employee fitness center.
O-A-K KALAMAZOO
Since opening their doors in downtown Kalamazoo with an established team in November 2013, the long-standing Michigan contractor has added three additional employees and plans to continue hiring over the coming months for their Southwest Michigan operations.
“We are excited and energized as we grow, envisioning what the future has in store for our company and the local market,” stated Tom Stanek, Director of Kalamazoo Operations for O-A-K. “The community has been very welcoming. Working with Eaton was a great way to kick off what we expect to be a bright future in Southwest Michigan.”
THE PROJECT
The new, expanded fitness center for Eaton, a global leader in power management, was strategically built to provide more space, easier access, abundant daylight and room for new state-of-the-art fitness equipment. The center also features new locker rooms and restrooms for employees.
The former fitness center was located in a smaller location on the campus. After completing a feasibility study and programming phase, alongside architectural and engineering firm Byce & Associates, Inc., the fitness center was built within the 248,000 square foot building along I-94.
“The experience and cooperation from both O-A-K and Byce & Associates made the fast-paced job go extremely smooth,” stated Mike Galloway, Test/Facility Manager at Eaton.
Sustainable construction practices were also a major factor in project success. The team utilized existing light and mechanical systems and salvaged existing carpet, light fixtures and ductwork.
The renovation was completed on time in March 2014.
We are excited and energized as we grow, envisioning what the future has in store for our company and the local market.
