We are pleased to announce the promotion of three partners as part of our strategic growth plan. Jake Jorgensen has been named Chief Operating Officer, Katherine (Katie) Kawczynski has been promoted to Executive Vice President of Professional Services, and Jason Schneider has been appointed Executive Vice President of Construction. These leadership advancements reinforce our commitment to our 78-year legacy while positioning the firm for continued growth and an expanded geographic presence.
“This next generation of leadership represents everything we value at VJS—dedication, growth, and a passion for strengthening our communities,” said Craig Jorgensen, CEO and President at VJS. “Jake is continuing the Jorgensen family legacy, stepping into a leadership role that his father (myself), his grandfather, and those before us have worked hard to build. Jason is a true VJS success story—he started as an intern and worked his way up through the ranks, proving that hard work and commitment pay off. And Katie is a trailblazer—our first female partner—whose leadership has been instrumental in accelerating our firm’s growth. As we look ahead, we couldn’t be more confident in the future of VJS with these three at the helm.”
As part of our mission, we dedicate talent and exceptional customer service to construct projects that strengthen communities. This commitment extends beyond construction, as we actively partner with local organizations to support educational initiatives, workforce development, and infrastructure improvements that benefit neighborhoods across Wisconsin. The VJS Community Foundation plays a key role in this mission, supporting local charities, funding scholarships, and contributing to community-building efforts that make a lasting impact.
This dedication to community growth is evident in our steady expansion, with our annual volume reaching $285 million in 2024. To further enhance our presence and strengthen partnerships, we also opened a new downtown Milwaukee office in 2024, ensuring greater accessibility and support for clients and local initiatives.
We have played a key role in delivering some of southeastern Wisconsin’s most impactful projects, including the University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee Chemistry Building, Aug Prep North, 333 North Water Street Apartments, Evoni Apartments, Urban Ecology Center – Washington Park, Milwaukee Public Schools, and the Waukesha Parade Memorial. Each of these projects demonstrates our unwavering commitment to creating spaces that foster education, sustainability, and economic growth within the community.
These leadership promotions mark an important milestone in our continued mission to drive operational excellence and expand our geographic reach while remaining a trusted, community-focused partner for years to come.
View the BizTimes announcement: VJS Promotes three partners, including new COO