As chief executive officer of G.E. Johnson, Jim Johnson is building on his father’s legacy, not just following it. To be sure, the company founded by his late father, Gil Johnson, remains what it has been for decades — a major player in Colorado’s construction industry. The company is Colorado Springs’ largest locally owned and operated commercial builder, and one of the biggest in the state and the Rocky Mountain region.

The company has prospered for much of its existence since Gil Johnson founded it in 1967. After working for several companies and in various states, Gil passes on an opportunity in California to move his family to Colorado Springs and open his company’s doors. Through the years, G.E. Johnson has either built, expanded or renovated all or portions of some of the highest profile structures in Colorado Springs. Among them are The Broadmoor, World Arena, Pikes Peak Center, Pikes Peak Community College, Fountain Valley School, Air Force Academy, Penrose Hospital and El Paso County Justice Center. Other Colorado projects include the Park Hyatt Beaver Creek, One DTC office building, and St. Anthony’s West Hospital to name a few. Outside of Colorado, G.E. Johnson has worked on schools, hospitals, prisons, high-end resort housing and advanced technology buildings, among many other projects. The company culture founded by Gil carries on no matter the project or location: caring and commitment to family and community.

Jim has played an active role in every division of G.E. Johnson Construction Company since he started as a laborer in 1976, eventually serving in the role of vice president before becoming president and CEO in 1997. Responsible for leading the strategic vision, culture and board of directors of G.E. Johnson, Jim’s passion for community service and client satisfaction drives him as he continues to lead the company in its 50th year of operation.

Gil and Jim are both noted for charitable contributions and community involvement. Jim is a current board member of the Colorado Community College System – State Board for Community Colleges and Occupational Education. He has served on the Kansas State University Foundation board of trustees; Kansas State University College of Engineering advisory council; Kansas State University Alumni Association board of trustees; and the boards of YMCA of the Pikes Peak Region, Colorado Business Committee for the Arts, Discover Goodwill of Southern and Western Colorado. He is also a member of the Young Presidents Organization and Colorado Concern.

Jim, an avid long distance runner, and his wife Laura have four adult children. They live in Colorado Springs and enjoy spending time at their ranch outside of Westcliffe, Colorado. They also like spending time outdoors with their kids, horses and dogs.