Celebrating a Century of Valuing People and Building Dreams

Our founder William Edward O’Neil and his son Art O’Neil

From our humble beginnings in 1925, W.E. O’Neil’s story is one of integrity, innovation, and lasting relationships. For 100 years, we’ve built more than structures—we’ve built trust, communities, and a legacy of excellence. Explore our history and celebrate the achievements, people, and moments that have shaped who we are today.

Explore Our Milestones

Building strong relationships has been the foundation of our success since 1925. It’s what keeps our clients coming back, attracts top talent, and ensures we deliver on our promises. Rooted in the values passed down through generations, we continue to thrive on the principles established by William E. O’Neil.

Take a look at our journey—overcoming economic challenges, achieving groundbreaking project successes, and forging partnerships with industry leaders. From strategic decisions that fueled our growth from $5 million to $20 million in the 2000s, to reaching our first $1 billion year in 2018. From becoming a 100% employee-owned company in 2020 to now, celebrating our most monumental milestone—our centennial anniversary!

Join Us in Celebrating a Century of Building Dreams!

To commemorate this incredible milestone: we have prepared variety of branded merch for our employee-owners to choose from hoodie, polo shirts, wine set, and poker set. Along with those exciting gifts and all-staff monthly huddle, watch out for our video releases highlighting our employee-owners, clients, among others. That’s not all, we have prepared activities for everyone–from photo contest, history coloring book, kids’ contest, and “memories” from current and  orate this incredible milestone, aside from the all-staff virtual monthly huddles, packed with invite you to celebrate with us throughout the year. Here’s to 100 years of bringing thoughtful leadership to the building experience!

A Historic Honor: 100 Years of W.E. O’Neil

On February 19, 2025, the City of Chicago will officially proclaim 2025 as the 100-Year Anniversary of W.E. O’Neil Construction—a special recognition of our century-long excellence in construction, philanthropy, and economic contributions in shaping the Chicago skyline and strengthening its communities.

Join Us in Celebrating a Century of Building Dreams!

As we commemorate this incredible milestone, we invite you to celebrate with us throughout the year. Here’s to 100 years of bringing thoughtful leadership to the building experience!