President, Frank DeSantis

With strong and deep roots in the Grand Valley since the 1960’s, PNCI develops more than structures; they help to develop the community they live in through philanthropic work and volunteering.

In the early 1960’s, Ray Phipps began Phipps Construction.  Phipps soon became one of the top commercial builders on the Western Slope, became the city’s Mayor, and was the president of the Western Colorado Contractor’s Association as well as The Associated General Contractors of America. After several years, Phipps partnered with John Newell and the company was named Phipps Newell Construction.  Phipps Newell grew to be an instrumental part of the growing Grand Junction community through their construction and philanthropic efforts.

PNCI Employees take part in a bicycle rally to raise money for Rose Hill House

As Phipps Newell Construction was growing, Frank, the now current President, was working his way up in the construction industry. Frank DeSantis, originally from New Jersey, began his career in the east and moved to Del Norte, Colorado in 1991. Two years later, he began working for City Market Construction and traveled across the state to build City Market stores. As his family began to grow, traveling was not practical and his family relocated to Grand Junction. Soon after, Frank began working for Phipps Newell Construction. After just two years with the company, he had the opportunity to purchase the business. For DeSantis, this was a great honor. His predecessors had built a strong foundation in the community and were well-respected for decades, and he took pride in continuing their legacy.

Marble Charter School: Built by PNCI Construction

Now named PNCI, for ‘Phipps Newell Construction Incorporated,’ the company continues giving back and building the Grand Valley.  PNCI regularly does work for St. Mary’s Hospital, Colorado Mesa University, and School District 51. DeSantis notes that their repeat business is a testament to PNCI’s reputation and quality of work. Currently, PNCI ‘s schedule is filled with the new construction of a fire house for Lower Valley Fire Protection  District, a renovation of an old theater in Rifle, a renovation in Glenwood, and more. At any given time during the year, PNCI typically has six projects that keep their 23 employees hard at work.

EC Electric Building built by PNCI Construction

Recently DeSantis, a St. Mary’s board member of four years, was the recipient of the Michel Award. Recipients of this award are described as, “staunch supporters of the mission of St. Mary’s and through their philanthropy and leadership, they truly help St.Mary’s continue to make a difference in providing hope and healing.” The PNCI team is a proud supporter of the Rose Hill House; a home that alleviates hospital-visit expenses though providing free lodging to out-of-town patients and family members. They take part in a bicycle rally each year that benefits the home. On giving back, DeSantis says, “When you are successful, it is important to pass it on to the community. Our employees live here, our children go to school here. Giving back builds on our foundation of ethics and honesty.” DeSantis is also an active and proud Knights of Columbus member where he helps to raise funds for other deserving organizations.

Mesa County Sheriff’s Office built by PNCI Construction

Until the early 2000’s, when the business was operated by John Newell, the company efficiently ran without the conveniences of computers and cell phones.  As they have continued to grow, the demands of business called for technology. PNCI has recently partnered with Networks Unlimited for their technology needs. DeSantis says he is excited for the service offerings that Networks Unlimited has introduced.