1848 Construction is a full-service Design-Build General Contracting firm serving Southern Wisconsin and the surrounding areas. Our dedicated and highly skilled team – both in the office and in the field – works diligently to ensure projects are completed correctly, on time, and within budget. At 1848 Construction, our commitment to exceptional customer service and top-quality construction begins with the leadership team and extends through every member of our staff.
Jeff Grady
Founder/CEO
Jeff is the Founder and CEO of 1848 Construction, bringing more than 30 years of experience in the construction industry. Beginning as a carpenter, Jeff developed extensive hands-on knowledge across multiple trades and construction disciplines, giving him an operational and detail-oriented approach to leadership as he oversees both office and field operations. Jeff also leads the company’s safety policies and procedures, ensuring safety remains the top priority on every project.
Throughout his career, he has successfully managed and contributed to a wide range of projects, including complex renovations and ground-up new construction – utilizing precast and tilt-up methods, pre-engineered metal buildings, and timber-framing. His broad expertise across diverse industries and innovative projects provides valuable insight throughout every phase of construction, from planning, execution, and completion.
Jeff’s leadership, strong work ethic, and commitment to quality have helped build a culture of loyalty and professionalism, reflected in the many long-tenured employees he is proud to have on the 1848 Construction team.
Sam Blahnik
President, Business Development
Sam joined 1848 Construction in 2019 and quickly became a key member of the leadership team, earning shareholder status within two years. He currently serves as President while leading the company’s business development efforts, cultivating new client relationships and expanding 1848 Construction’s presence throughout the marketplace.
Sam earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Agricultural Business with a minor in Animal Ecology from Iowa State University. Prior to joining 1848 Construction, he spent years leading economic and community development initiatives, working closely with developers, brokers, and business owners to support growth opportunities. Sam is actively involved in leadership roles on numerous nonprofit boards and community organizations throughout Dane County.
Sam’s diverse experience in municipal development, business development, and community leadership has been instrumental in the continued growth of 1848 Construction. His ability to build strong relationships, identify strategic opportunities, and connect clients with effective construction solutions creates lasting value for both clients and the company. Sam is committed to delivering results that exceed expectations and support the long-term success of every project and partnership.
Nate Graney
Vice President
Nate Graney is 1848 Construction’s Vice President and Senior Project Manager with more than two decades of experience in architectural drafting, construction management, and commercial building development. A 2002 graduate of Madison Area Technical College with a degree in Architectural Technologies, Nate built his foundation through hands-on experience working alongside his father in residential home construction from an early age. That experience shaped his strong work ethic, attention to detail, and passion for building.
After graduating, Nate began his career in the architectural design field, developing extensive knowledge in construction detailing, building systems, and project coordination. His career naturally evolved into construction management, where he has successfully led and managed projects ranging from small-scale developments to multi-million-dollar commercial construction projects throughout Wisconsin and Illinois.
Known for his leadership, professionalism, and respect for others, Nate has earned a reputation for delivering quality work through hard work, accountability, and strong construction knowledge. His experience spans all phases of construction, with a deep understanding of both the technical and practical aspects of the building industry.
Our Core Values
Through years of industry experience, with a genuine design-build collaborative approach and consistent communication, we help our clients successfully grow their businesses. By staying true to our core values and embedding them throughout our team, 1848 delivers seamless projects that consistently exceed client expectations.
INTEGRITY
We prioritize honesty, transparency, and straightforward communication in everything we do. Strong relationships are built on trust, and we believe that integrity and ethical practices are the foundation of lasting partnerships.
DRIVEN
At 1848 Construction, we are committed to excellence in everything we do. We consistently give our best effort to achieve the highest level of success.
FLEXIBLE/ADABPTABLE
We prioritize and are willing to do what is best for our team, our clients, and our company. Embracing change, we stay adaptable and eager to evolve with ever-changing codes, technology and processes.
RELATIONSHIP FOCUSED
Our team focuses on building strong, lasting relationships with each other, our clients, and other strategic business partners. These meaningful connections are key to our success and provide an overall advantage in the marketplace.
The 1848 Construction Difference
Our streamlined construction process combines innovative management tools with clear consistent communication throughout all stages of a project. We partner with competitive and reputable companies to deliver cost-effective construction solutions to our clients with transparency. From ground-breaking to ribbon-cutting, we are with you every step of the way.
Our skilled construction team’s dedication and personalized attention to detail, especially on complex projects, is noticed and we are proud to have earned the trust of many repeat clients over the years.
We are honored to have received many “Best of Category” awards from Varco Pruden’s National Hall of Fame Awards for constructing unique offices, recreational facilities, retail stores, warehouses and agricultural facilities, using pre-engineered metal buildings.
1848 has been voted as a Top Commercial Builder in Dane County for 9 years and has also received several prestigious awards from InBusiness Madison, including:
Best New Development or Renovation for Retail, Office and Health Care facilities
Most Innovative Feature
Project of the Year
Project of the Decade
Your Partner for Innovative Construction & Project Management