JR Construction: Laying the groundwork for a strong community

The JR Construction team

JR Construction isn’t only focused on building concrete foundations and framing for residential and commercial properties; their real specialization is building relationships. “What makes JR Construction unique is that we provide a turnkey service,” says Managing Partner Jack Pou. “We have the labor, the materials, and established relationships with local vendors to allow contractors to get materials, labor, and supervision at a price advantage.”

AT A GLANCE

Top executives: Jack Pou, Managing Partner; Ryan Engquist, Partner; Alex Derousselle, Project Manager; Melissa Rollins, Controller

Phone: 225.363.0020

Address: 17534 Old Jefferson Hwy., Suite A3, Prairieville, LA 70769

Website: jrconstructionsolution.com

JR Construction prides itself on having experienced managers physically on the job site communicating with the general contractor and skilled craftsmen, not just checking in from a remote location. To better allow for this communication onsite, Pou holds a Spanish class monthly, teaching employees how to communicate effectively with their labor force, most of whom they have been working with for over eight years. “In today’s world, many craftsmen are Hispanic, and there can be a language barrier. Sometimes some expectations are missed because the craftsman can’t communicate with the contractor. We’re onsite to ensure that the work that’s done is quality and that those expectations are communicated.”

As long-time members of the local community, Pou and his operations manager make it a priority for the JR team to get involved in community projects. They’ve donated and installed a handicapped ramp for Kid’s Orchestra and participated in the 2022 and 2023 American Heart Association Walk, the St. Jude Dream Day Foundation, and SwollFest Fishing Rodeo supporting OLOL Children’s Hospital. Along with their community involvement, Pou believes in building a strong company culture; he rewards his team for their hard work by taking them on group fishing and hunting trips.

Last year, JR Construction had its best year ever, doubling its revenue from 2021 and seeing an expansion throughout southeast Louisiana, from Covington to Houma and Thibodeaux. They branched out to form relationships with large builders in the area and are looking to continue to expand this year. They’re focusing on putting more quality control checklists in place and continuing manager and craftsman education. “As the residential market changes, we’re changing with it, and we’re having to pivot and do what we need to do to ensure business growth,” Pou says. 

JR Construction has been working on more multifamily residential projects, too, like townhomes and apartments, as well as single-family homes. 

Ultimately, JR Construction strives to deliver a quality project within budget for the contractor and owner of the property. “At the end of the day, we’re a service provider there to make sure the general contractor and owner are satisfied and getting the best return on their investment.”