Pepper: K-12 School Construction Examples

Starting before the referendum

At Pepper, our K-12 services start with pre-referendum planning, where we assist our clients in the budgeting and planning process before the referendum vote. As you consider your next capital project, we can help identify the right-sized project and associated costs.

During construction, our team of experienced K-12 builders are careful to protect both the learning environment of your students and the lifestyle of your neighbors from the disruption that can come with construction activities.

Related projects

Experts

Jay Ripsky Chief Operations Officer, Illinois

Jay Ripsky Chief Operations Officer, Illinois

As Chief Operations Officer, Jay Ripsky oversees all operational aspects of PCC's business. He collaborates with President Scot Pepper to align personnel with day-today operational needs. Previously executive vice president, Jay joined the industry in 1994 and has experience at every level with Pepper Construction serving clients across multiple sectors, including healthcare, retail, commercial and institutional work. In addition, Jay has led our firm’s self-perform work. He expanded the reach of these services beyond our own projects and developed the infrastructure and team that support it. Jay holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Southern Illinois University.

Jim Creath, LEED® AP BD+C Executive Vice President, Illinois

Jim Creath, LEED® AP BD+C Executive Vice President, Illinois

Jim began his career with Pepper Construction in 1988 and has worked in nearly every market we serve and on some of our largest projects. As an Executive Vice President on the Pepper Construction Company leadership team, Jim oversees our Barrington and field operations. He also provides thought leadership and market insights for areas including senior living, higher education and institutional projects. Beyond his project work, Jim has always played a leadership role in developing strong teams and enduring client relationships. Jim holds a Bachelor of Science in Construction Engineering from Iowa State University, a LEED AP BD+C certification and is also an AIC-Certified Professional Constructor.

Bob Eckl Senior Vice President, Indiana

Bob Eckl Senior Vice President, Indiana

With seven years of prior industry experience, Bob joined the Pepper team in 1996. Currently, he oversees national retail accounts and provides supervision to more than $500 million in Pepper projects. Bob started with Pepper’s Chicago office and joined the Indiana team in 2005. As senior vice president, he co-leads Pepper Indiana’s operations, which includes staffing and pricing strategies, as well as the preconstruction, quality and virtual construction departments. Bob holds a Bachelor of Science in Construction Administration from the University of Wisconsin. He is an ACE Mentor board member and mentor committee chairman, and he serves on the General Contractor Council of the Indiana Subcontractors Association. Bob is also a member of the International Council of Shopping Centers, where he earned the Certified Development, Design & Construction Professionals (CDP) credential.

Robert Martinelli Senior Vice President, Illinois

Robert Martinelli Senior Vice President, Illinois

With 23 years of industry experience – including 18 years with Pepper – Rob has developed an impressive record of successfully delivering a range of K-12 and higher education projects, as well as commercial office buildings and corporate headquarters. Working throughout the Chicagoland area, the energy and enthusiasm that Rob brings to his projects is contagious and benefits design teams, trade partners and clients alike. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Technology from Eastern Illinois University and is a LEED AP.

Lance Tritsch Senior Vice President, Illinois

Lance Tritsch Senior Vice President, Illinois

As a leader of Pepper's K-12 work in Illinois, Lance has specialized in educational, institutional and retail projects in the Chicagoland area since 1995. He has become known as a "go-to expert" for school work and has overseen multiple new construction and improvement projects with a strong understanding of the associated planning, management and construction complexities that result in successful partnerships. Lance holds a Bachelor of Science in Advanced Technical Studies and an Associate in Applied Science, Construction Technology, both from Southern Illinois University. His industry affiliations have included membership in the Chicago chapter of the United States Green Building Council (USGBC) and the Chicago chapter of the K-12 Advocacy Committee of the USGBC. Lance is also a LEED AP BD+C and serves on the Illinois Association of School Business Officials (IASBO) Planning and Construction professional development committee, which helps educators understand the impact of the physical environment on teaching and learning.

Scott Nemshick Director of Business Development, Illinois

Scott Nemshick Director of Business Development, Illinois

As business development director, Scott supports Pepper Illinois' Barrington operations with deep regional expertise in design, engineering and trade relationship building, particularly in the K-12 sector. A former educator turned business developer, Scott joined Pepper after leading K-12 business development efforts for an architecture firm. His ability to empathize with end users helps Pepper more fully understand our clients’ needs and how we can help them achieve their goals.

Jacob Ellis Project DIrector

Jacob Ellis Project DIrector

Jacob Ellis has established a strong reputation among clients and partners across various markets. He is recognized for his ability to create timely solutions while prioritizing the client's best interests and maintaining proactive communication. A graduate of Ball State University with a degree in Construction Management, Jacob also holds an ASHE Healthcare Construction certification. Additionally, he is a dedicated advocate for the communities he serves, actively participating in Habitat for Humanity and volunteering at events organized by Pepper throughout the year.

K-12

Starting before the referendum

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Five keys to partnering through a K-12 referendum process

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Experts

Jay Ripsky Chief Operations Officer, Illinois

Jay Ripsky Chief Operations Officer, Illinois

Jim Creath, LEED® AP BD+C Executive Vice President, Illinois

Jim Creath, LEED® AP BD+C Executive Vice President, Illinois

Bob Eckl Senior Vice President, Indiana

Bob Eckl Senior Vice President, Indiana

Robert Martinelli Senior Vice President, Illinois

Robert Martinelli Senior Vice President, Illinois

Lance Tritsch Senior Vice President, Illinois

Lance Tritsch Senior Vice President, Illinois

Scott Nemshick Director of Business Development, Illinois

Scott Nemshick Director of Business Development, Illinois

Jacob Ellis Project DIrector

Jacob Ellis Project DIrector