In 2014, three colleagues — Cory Larson, Matt Frandsen and Dustin Waters — realized they had the foundation to start something of their own. They had spent years working side by side, each bringing a different strength to the table. From preconstruction and project planning to operations, sales and business development, they covered much of what it takes to build and run an engineering and construction business. More importantly, they trusted each other.
So they decided to build the kind of company they believed should exist. One grounded in strong relationships, transparent communication, respect for people and smart solutions for their clients. Before they started making sales calls, they sat down and wrote the principles that would guide their decisions going forward. This wasn’t just a mission statement for a wall. They wanted a working framework they’d actually use, and that’s exactly what they created.
The founders were also intentional about the name. They wanted it to reflect how they would approach the work and serve their clients, rather than focusing on themselves. The word “keen” said what they wanted to say — sharp, perceptive, curious, responsive. Beyond a name, it was a standard to live up to: delivering smart project solutions.
Those choices began paying off quickly. Before Keen had a single project on the books, people were already calling — colleagues, tradespeople and industry contacts who had watched them work for years and wanted to be part of what they were creating. That early trust, earned through years of doing right by people, helped set the course for Keen.
What Hasn’t Changed
Keen Project Solutions has grown significantly since 2014, establishing a proven track record across commercial and industrial markets. But the way we earn and keep business looks much the same as it always has. We do what we say we will and treat our customers, employees and partners as if our reputation depends on it. Because it does.
We’ve always been a people-first company. That belief is behind the talent development programs, the apprenticeship opportunities and the way we empower our team members at every level to make decisions in the best interest of our customers.
Powered by Employee Ownership
In 2026, we took our people-first commitment one step further by becoming an ESOP company. We’ve always believed our success starts with our people, and now they have a stake in what comes next. Employee ownership gives our team another reason to think long term, take responsibility for the work and share in the future we’re building together.
What does working with us look like?
See how our approach brings planning, communication and accountability together throughout the project.