Hutter Construction is a true family affair with three generations now working in the business—a total of 20 of its 160 employees are relatives of the company’s founders and primary owners, brothers Al and Jim Traffie. That’s the largest number of family members on the job of the 144 businesses on this year’s list.
Hutter Construction is among the 10 fastest growing companies on the list, with revenues up 33 percent between 2010 and 2012, and the company expects to add 15 more jobs this year. Customers include Northeast Delta Dental, Public Service of NH, Monadnock Community Hospital, Wal-Mart, Mount Washington Resort, Concord Orthopaedics, and Grappone Conference Center.
The Traffies founded the New Ipswich-based construction firm in 1973. Al’s son, Lars, now runs the company as president and CEO, a role he took over in 2003. “My wife and I prayed about it and decided this was the direction we wanted to go in. In 2000, we had a consultant come in and guide us through a three-year transition period to ensure a healthy transition,” Lars says. Since taking over the company, Lars has doubled revenues. His brothers Nels and Kurt became owners this year and took on new leadership roles.
“We’ve been diligent about providing service to customers, from design approval to construction,” Lars says. “We’ve got a great foundation and crew here. Our employees and associates understand they are an extension of our family.”
Flexibility has also been key to the company’s success, Lars says, explaining Hutter works in many markets. “Being a family owned business allows us to make quick decisions and be nimble on our feet,” he says.
Beyond the projects Hutter has constructed, Lars is proud of the reputation his family has built. “Customers know that if a Traffie says we can do it for the budget and timeline, they can go to the bank with that and go to sleep trusting that will happen,” he says.
Current Issue - May 2024