McCownGordon Ranked by Fortune Magazine as #10 Best Construction Workplace in the Nation
Kansas City, MO (Oct 15, 2025) – McCownGordon Construction, one of the nation’s top construction managers, was recently named a Fortune Best Workplace in Construction, ranking #10. This prestigious recognition highlights the company’s continued commitment to fostering a people-first culture.
The Best Workplaces list highlights companies excelling in creating positive, inclusive and engaging environments. McCownGordon’s placement among the top 10 reflects its commitment to creating an environment where associates feel valued, supported and motivated to grow in their careers.
Since its inception in 1999, McCownGordon has consistently been recognized for its emphasis on associate engagement, inclusion and belonging, and talent development. From robust wellness initiatives to transparent leadership and community involvement, the firm takes pride in always putting the associate experience first.
“We believe that when you invest in people, you lay the groundwork for long-term success,” said Chairman and CEO Ramin Cherafat. “It’s about building strong, connected teams and fostering a culture where associates feel seen, heard and motivated to do their best work. That kind of investment shapes not only the work we do, but the way we show up for our customers every single day,” Cherafat continues.
According to the Great Place to Work ® 2021 Global Employee Engagement Study, only 57% of employees at a typical U.S.-based company say their company is a great place to work. By comparison, a recent survey shows that 94% of associates at McCownGordon say it is a great place to work. “That kind of feedback speaks volumes about the culture we’ve built. From inception, our mission has been to ensure every associate embodies our core values of integrity, performance and relationships, and that those values wouldn’t just be words displayed on walls,” said SVP of People Brand Riggs.
The firm is 100% employee-owned through an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). An ESOP is a qualified retirement plan designed to give associates beneficial ownership in the company. At McCownGordon, this means more than just financial investment. It represents shared responsibility and shared rewards. “Our ESOP aligns perfectly with our entrepreneurial spirit,” Riggs said. “At the end of the day, we all want to do our best work because we all have a stake in the company’s success,” she continued.
This recognition from Fortune reinforces McCownGordon’s reputation as a national leader in creating a best-in-class workplace.
From Fortune Magazine. © 2025 Fortune Media IP Limited. All rights reserved. Used under license. Fortune is a registered trademark of Fortune Media IP Limited and is used under license. Fortune Magazine and Fortune Media (USA) Corporation are not affiliated with, and do not endorse products or services of, McCownGordon Construction.
