September, 2023
Aurora, Illinois—Luse Contracting Group, a fifth-generation family business that services the Chicagoland construction industry, recently celebrated its 100th anniversary and joined a select group in the process: Fewer than 1 percent of family businesses survive to the fifth generation.
The Luse business celebrated its centennial milestone with extended family, employees, clients, and business partners on the 99th floor of Willis Tower. The party featured themed "Taste of Chicago" food carts, ice sculptures, Albanese Candy display, LangeTwins "Gen5" Wine, visits to the iconic Willis Tower Skydeck & Museum, and even a set of "Roaring 20's" party guest actors as a nod to the company's roots.
Founded in Chicago and now headquartered in Aurora, Ill., Luse Contracting Group provides mechanical insulation and environmental remediation services for new construction and renovation projects in Illinois, Indiana and Wisconsin.
The business has stood the test of time through equal measures of resiliency, adaptability, creativity, and proven quality. All told, in 2023 the Luse workforce boasts nearly 300 employees.
“Seeing your name out there and knowing that it is highly regarded within the construction industry motivates you to do business the right way, to make sure your family’s reputation and legacy are carried on by each generation,” said Steve Luse, chairman and CEO of Luse Holdings, and the fourth generation of Luses to lead the business.
As the start of its 101st year approaches, the secret to longevity and success for the Luse family business really isn’t a secret at all.
“It takes hard work, a little luck, a lot of prayer, and a close-knit family that supports one another and the people who work for us,” said Steve. “We are conservative in our approach and try not to get way out over our skis. If we haven’t done something before, we have industry relationships across the country and through our professional association where we know we can reach out and bring in partners to work with us and teach us what we need to know. We know we haven’t ‘done it all,’ so we just think it’s good business to seek wise counsel as needed.”
