Our History

A Name Built on Trust

Jakes Construction is a leading provider of heavy civil construction services throughout the Lower Mainland and other regions of BC. As a team of capable, resourceful, and committed construction experts, we put in the work to deliver comprehensive solutions and dependable quality throughout every stage.

What We Do

Comprehensive Civil Construction

When you choose Jakes Construction, you’re choosing a contractor that can provide quality civil service solutions from start to finish. Whether the job calls for road construction, utility installation, earthmoving, or a bit of everything, you can trust us to roll up our sleeves and get the job done to the highest standards.

Jakes Icon

Our Timeline

From Jake to Jakes

While Jakes Construction has become the heavy civil contractor of choice for the Lower Mainland, we started with humble beginnings. It all began with Jake Klaassen, a single Bobcat, and a contract. When Jake started his one-man Chilliwack-based contracting business, long hours, hard work, and meticulous problem solving were the norm. Though these elements are still part of every job we complete, the scope of each project has massively increased over time.

Fall 1991

After years of work in residential construction, 19-year-old Jake Klaassen starts a new job with A&C Bobcat Services in Chilliwack BC, beginning his civil construction career.

Winter 1991

Jake decides to go out on his own, purchasing a Bobcat skid steer with a $923 monthly payment. Jake’s Bobcat Services is born.

Meeting Ralph Rosse

Friend Richard Timmers introduces Jake to Ralph Rosse, former EAC manager and owner of Mallard Construction. Ralph hires Jake for various small jobs.

October 1993

With Ralph’s business experience and Jake’s resourcefulness, the two decide to pool their resources and form a new company over dinner at Banners Restaurant in Chilliwack, BC. The era of Jake’s Contracting begins.

Spring 1994

Jake’s Contracting is awarded a significant job in Courtenay, BC on Vancouver Island. To complete this job, the company relocates to nearby Royston and subsequently to Qualicum Beach.

Our First Excavator

Productive capacity for Jake’s Contracting increases with the acquisition of its first excavator—a 1994 Hitachi EX150 purchased from Wajax Industries in Langley, BC.

Spring 1995

Jake’s Contracting is awarded its first one million dollar contract by the town of Qualicum Beach. This project consists of Rupert Road Phase 1 and future phases: a 3.2 km, two-lane highway.

Spring 1998

With the family homestead being far away and with First Nations and Fraser Valley growth opportunities abounding, Jake’s Contracting relocates back to Chilliwack, BC.

Adding to the Business

As Jake’s Contracting continues to expand and produce quality results, Jake adds estimation, construction, and accounting/finance expertise to manage growth and capitalize on new opportunities.

Fall 2005

Jake’s Contracting is awarded its first five million dollar contract by the City of Abbotsford, completing a runway extension for the Abbotsford International Airport (YXX).

2007

In keeping with the tradition of building a family business, Jake’s children begin employment with the company.

Summer 2008

To position the company for further growth as a premier civil construction partner, Jake’s Contracting (456355 Ltd.) evolves to Jakes Construction Ltd.

Spring 2010

Jakes Construction is awarded a $20+ million contract, its largest job to date. Contracted again by the City of Abbotsford for the Abbotsford International Airport, Jakes installs a new taxiway flanking runway and an expanded apron to service the newly renovated terminal building.

Spring 2012

Jakes Construction partners with Seabird Island Band to form Stqo:ya Construction LP. Stqo:ya is strategically positioned to capitalize on civil construction opportunities that are exclusively available to First Nations contractors.

2013

Jakes Construction celebrates its 20th anniversary.

2017

Jakes Construction is awarded a $46 million project by the Ministry of Transportation. This substantial project involves widening Highway 1 and constructing an overpass at 216th.

2018

Jakes Construction celebrates 25 years with an employee family day.

Building on 25 Years

With 25 years of experience and growth, Jakes Construction celebrates the completion of hundreds of projects throughout British Columbia.

Trans Mountain Expansion Project (2021)

Started work on the Trans Mountain Pipeline Expansion Project, one of the largest pipeline projects in Canada.

Hwy 1, 216th Street Project Completion (2021)

Jakes Construction completes work for the Highway 1, 216th Street – highway widening and interchange construction project.

2023

Jakes Construction celebrates 30 years of hard work.

Let’s work together. Get in touch.