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Kinley's 130-Year Legacy: A Journey through Time

Kinley Construction is commemorating its 130th anniversary this year, a significant milestone that symbolizes not only the company's enduring presence in the industrial sector but also a lasting legacy championed by six generations of family leadership. Founded in 1895 as a small leather tannery in Western New York, Kinley has undergone several transformations over the years, evolving from a modest startup to a prominent player in the national industrial construction arena.

From Humble Beginnings to Industrial Giant

The journey began with Adam Kinley, the founder, who started out by supplying premium leather to the Boston market. As the market shifted, Kinley transitioned to timber production and, eventually, stumbled upon a lucrative opportunity in the oil sector in the early 1900s. With the discovery of crude oil on Kinley land in Pennsylvania, the company thrived in petroleum until the 1980s. Recognizing the potential for change, the fifth-generation leadership under J.L. Kinley pivoted towards industrial construction.

In 1985, Kinley Corporation was founded, marking the initiation of Kinley Construction as a recognized name in the field. The company set up its headquarters in Texas, allowing it to reach out to a wider clientele across the United States. With a reputation built on complexity and reliability, Kinley Construction tackled challenging industrial and mechanical projects, proving that the work ethic of its early days still resonated in its operations.

The Unwavering Commitment to Values

What continues to set Kinley apart from its competitors is its dedication to family values. Unlike many firms that prioritize short-term gains, Kinley remains family-owned and privately operated, ensuring that long-term relationships with employees, clients, and communities take precedence.

Jimmy Kinley, the sixth-generation CEO, emphasized, "Longevity in this business doesn't happen by accident. It results from adhering to your values and investing in people. Our 130 years symbolize our commitment to maintaining a healthy company for future generations." This philosophy is reinforced by Kinley's guiding principles, which focus on kinship, integrity, relentless improvement, and servant leadership.

Creating a Culture of Excellence

Kinley's internal culture is built upon six core values:
1. Kinship – Treating everyone as family.
2. Integrity – Doing what’s right for the right reasons.
3. Never Settle – Relentlessly pursuing improvement.
4. Legacy Driven – Making impactful contributions for future generations.
5. Excellence – Delivering safe and exceptional experiences.
6. You Before Me – Prioritizing servant leadership.

These principles guide the company's daily operations, influencing project planning, client relationships, and employee engagement. Many of Kinley’s team members have dedicated decades to the company, underlining the company’s emphasis on mentorship and career development as a pathway to growth.

Continuous Growth and Future Commitment

In response to the changing dynamics of the market, Kinley has remained agile, opening new offices and investing in state-of-the-art project management technologies to enhance collaboration and safety.

The dedication to its workforce remains paramount, as many Kinley employees have remarkable tenures, with averages reaching 15 years and some serving for up to half a century. Notably, mentorship and leadership opportunities are embedded in the company culture, ensuring that the younger generation receives the guidance needed for their professional journeys.

As Kinley looks towards its next chapter, the company plans to relocate its headquarters within Arlington, Texas, into a space designed to reflect its growth and commitment to its people and clients.

Honoring the Legacy While Building the Future

Kinley Construction's progression from a leather tannery to a national contractor signifies resilience and adaptability in the face of change. It illustrates how principles rooted in integrity and hard work can guide a path to success. With a focus on safety, meaningful industry contributions, and unwavering commitment to people, Kinley is well-positioned for the future.

As Rennie Crisafulli, President of Kinley Construction, stated, "Our historical foundation is essential, but it is how we leverage it to construct a promising future that truly matters. We appreciate the support from employees, clients, and partners throughout this remarkable journey, and we eagerly anticipate what lies ahead."

To learn more about Kinley Construction and its journey, visit www.kinleyconstruction.com.