QCBJ: Suburban Construction | Generations Learn by Doing

Suburban Construction

By Mary Louise Speer info@qcbusinessjournal.com

Jack Girskis doesn’t know a lot yet about Suburban Construction, the family business. But the 2-year-old knows it’s fun to “steal” his grandpa’s calculator and see what happens.

“He likes to hide my tape measure,” says company founder Brian Girskis.

It’s possible that Jack will take his place as third generation in running the Davenport-based company in 20 years or so. He may start out with simple responsibilities as did his dad, JR Girskis, president and owner of Suburban, and his two uncles. Probably he’ll hum the company’s well-known jingo of “for windows, siding and doors ...” as he learns to load the truck and help with other chores.

JR, the second generation, is continuing the tradition launched 24 years ago in Bettendorf. Suburban Construction moved to its showroom and offices at 616 W. 35th St., Davenport, in 1995. Company crews have completed about 25,000 jobs since then. Suburban has a staff of 10, with 18 contracting crews and crews serve a 90-mile radius around the area, Brian said.

His role today includes expediting orders and giving estimates and quotes. Transition from the lead role to more of a supporting position hasn’t been simple. “It’s tough because I always like to put my hand in the pot,” he said. “I think they’re doing an even better job than I did.”

Production manager Pat Girskis, the youngest son, recalls those first lessons in work ethics as he cut grass and loaded trucks, and learned to handle paperwork and installation.

“In the back of my mind I always knew I was going to work here,” he said.

His career path took him to playing semi-pro rugby in Colorado after college. He enjoyed the life there until his pockets began to run a little dry. Pat returned home and took up his calculator and tools about a year ago.

Darin Wilson, vice president of operations, feels very much like a fourth son in the family business. He attended the University of Iowa with JR and worked at Suburban during summer vacations.

Wilson says the goal is to maintain growth in a positive direction. “We don’t want it to grow too big. We want to remain a nice, family business,” he said.

Brian jokes about babysitting Jack’s children someday as his grandson takes over the reins. He believes the commitment to customers and providing quality products will remain strong. “That’s our life blood, our customers,” Brian said.

Larry Fisher / QUAD-CITY BUSINESS JOURNAL

Suburban Construction principals include, from left, Darin Wilson, vice president of operations; Brian Girskis, founder, and Pat Girskis, production manager.