Category: Weigand News

K-12 Community Beaming with New Milestone

Posted on November 24, 2025

Students, teachers, and administrators of Wawasee Community Schools celebrated the completed steel frame of their upcoming performing arts center alongside Weigand Construction, Garmann Miller, and other partners at Wawasee High School in Syracuse, Indiana. The first milestone of the project, the “topping out” is a longstanding tradition practiced across many civilizations for thousands of years. Kent Gilliom, a Project Executive at WCI, outlined three elements involved in each ceremony:

“This beam has three features. First, our signatures. It’s a visual representation of the future inhabitants of the building. You, in a sense, become part of the structure, and forever will be a part of the structure. Second, the American flag is a sign of patriotism…and third, an evergreen that’s to represent growth and tradition, that nature should rise above any made made structure.”

With a crane on standby to lift the metal in place, students and community members excitedly signed the beam before WCI workers hoisted it to the top of the building, securing it to the frame. Just below the final resting place were two banners honoring the Local 292 Ironworkers Union and Crane Industrial Service CO., Inc., who were instrumental in assembling the steel structure.

Setting the Stage

The Performing Arts Center is a major addition to Wawasee High School, with the original theatre first hosting audiences and dramatic productions in 1968. Nearly 60 years later, the new facility will feature:

752-Seat Auditorium
Stage
Orchestra Pit
Sound and Lighting Booth
Lobby
Concession Stand
Ticket Booth
Band Room
Vocal Room
Practice Rooms
Faculty Offices
Dressing Rooms
Multi-Purpose Room
Scene Shop Room
Restrooms
Prop Room
Storage Space

These new amenities will help to meet the school’s expanding program offerings, facilitating events, performances, and learning opportunities for decades to come. The existing theatre area will be repurposed for CTE and supplemental classroom space upon project completion in fall 2026.

Stoking the Creative Flame

“Our theater has been a place where countless students discovered their voices, their confidence and their love for the arts. It has served us well for over five decades. But as our programs have grown and evolved, so too has our vision for what our students deserve – space that matches their talent and their passion…This new performing arts center will be a cornerstone for our school and community – a place where music, theater and creativity can truly shine.” – Geoff Walmer, Principal, Wawasee High School

Huntington Fire Department to Receive 50 Year Update

Posted on November 21, 2025

In September, the Huntington Fire Department, representatives from Shive-Hattery, city officials, students, community members, and Weigand Construction joined together to commemorate the groundbreaking of a new fire station set to replace its decades-old counterpart on Condit Street. Located on 1005 Flaxmill Road, Huntington locals listened as city leadership, project partners, and the fire chief set the vision for the improvements to come with the addition of the 17,750 square foot, modernized facility.

“Oftentimes, the best ideas we do as a community…are ideas we’ve been talking about for a long time, and I see our task as being the ones to bring it up and bring it to fruition and accomplish the job…Working with Chief Johnson, we’ve been able to build on the vision and the imagination that goes back decades in this community; to see a fire station on this land so that we can better provide coverage to the entirety of our community in light of the growth we’ve experienced over the last thirty years.” – Richard Strick, Mayor, City of Huntington, IN

Bricks and Mortar

Sitting on a three-acre plot of land purchased in 2008 for the very purpose of constructing a fire station, the dream is finally becoming a reality 17 years later. The new building will include:

Air Filtration System
Living Quarters
Offices
Shared Community Spaces
Apparatus Bay
Training Tower

Air filtration systems are a necessity in firehouses, minimizing first responders’ exposure to harmful chemicals present during fires. Specialized vents and hoses will pull compounds out of the air and allow vehicles and equipment to safely offgas, decreasing the risk of contamination. This, along with an expanded residence hall, administrative wing, and shared meeting space will better equip firefighters stationed there from day to day. Additionally, the central location provides quicker access to more of the city, improving response times and logistics.

Investing in First Responders

Beyond a state-of-the-art facility, this project also demonstrates the city’s commitment to both community safety and the men and women who dedicate their lives to the fire service.

“Today marks more than just the start of construction on a building. It marks the next chapter in a proud tradition of service, safety, and community. For generations, our firefighters have answered the call in the most difficult of moments. They have protected our homes, our businesses, and most importantly, our families. They have done this with courage, sacrifice, and an unwavering dedication to Huntington. This station is an investment in our community and firefighters who will live here.” – Tony Johnson, Chief, Huntington Fire Department

New Fieldhouse for Falcons

Posted on November 19, 2025

Fairfield Community Schools welcomed students, families, and community members on October 30 to celebrate the grand opening of its new 28,000-square-foot athletic fieldhouse and the unveiling of its renovated theatre at Fairfield Jr./Sr. High School in Goshen.

The event marked a major milestone in the district’s ongoing commitment to providing state-of-the-art facilities for student development and community engagement. The updated theatre now features modern seating, an enhanced lobby, and advanced sound and lighting systems, transforming the space into a versatile venue for performances, assemblies, and local events.

“I’m just very excited,” said Superintendent Carrie Cannon. “These facilities are going to be utilized by our students and community for years to come. I’m so thankful for everyone who played a part in making this happen.”

The evening included performances by the Falcon cheerleaders and Fairfield Marching Pride, who added festive Halloween flair to the celebration. District leaders recognized Fairfield sports teams, as well as partners, architects Garmann Miller, and Weigand Construction, whose collaboration made the vision a reality. After a ribbon cutting, guests were invited to tour the new spaces and enjoy a taco dinner.

A Year-Round Hub for Athletics

The fieldhouse is now a centerpiece of Fairfield athletics, providing an indoor track and golf simulator, multi-sport courts, a viewing deck and team store. With the new facility, junior and high school teams finally have the room they need, no longer competing for the same gym space.

Across the district, New Paris, Millersburg, and Benton Elementary Schools also saw upgrades with energy-efficient HVAC systems, new chillers, and advanced temperature controls. These improvements now provide more consistent, comfortable learning environments that support focus and well-being.

Continued Investment in Fairfield’s Future

With these projects complete, Fairfield Schools is already moving forward with additional improvements. The district has issued $12 million in bonds to fund investments in technology, facilities, and infrastructure.

Phase 2, now underway with Weigand, includes a Marching Band Practice Area to enhance rehearsal logistics and safety. Planned parking lot reconfigurations will reduce traffic disruptions, improve lighting for early and late practices, and streamline equipment movement. And upgrades to running surfaces and training facilities will expand opportunities for track, field, and cross-country athletes.

Building a Legacy of Excellence

Through careful planning and strong community partnerships, Fairfield Schools continue to invest in the academic, athletic, and creative growth of their students. With a modern fieldhouse that elevates the game-day experience and a renovated theatre that showcases the district’s artistic talent, Fairfield now offers premier spaces that celebrate both athletics and the arts.

See Photos of the Completed Fieldhouse and Renovated Theatre in our Education Portfolio

Celebrated Fire House Inspires Community

Posted on November 18, 2025

Excitement filled North Main Street as Nappanee celebrated the opening of its new fire station. After a dedication ceremony and open house on Sunday, Oct. 12, hundreds of residents and area fire leaders toured the state-of-the-art facility at 1109 N. Main Street, getting a firsthand look at the city’s latest investment in public safety.

A Needed Upgrade

The new multi-million-dollar station replaces the city’s former firehouse, which served Nappanee for 55 years and had long outgrown the department’s needs.

“This has been a long time coming,” Nappanee Mayor Phil Jenkins says. “Eight years ago, we started exploring how we could merge fire and EMS operations under one roof. This new facility is the result of collaboration, careful planning, and input from our entire community.”

With Safety In Mind

Designed by DS Architecture/K2M Design, with Weigand Construction serving as general contractor, the new station represents a significant investment in Nappanee’s emergency response capabilities and infrastructure.

The new facility includes a training tower, eight dorm rooms for full-time firefighters, five two-deep apparatus bays, and a state-of-the-art ventilation system designed to remove diesel fumes and contaminants, improving firefighter health and safety.

“This system provides a safer environment and reduces exposure to harmful materials brought back from fire scenes,” Nappanee Fire Chief Don Lehman says.

An Iconic “Foo” Fighter

The station also pays homage to Nappanee’s unique firehouse heritage. The Smokey Stover logo, inspired by the comic-strip fireman created by Bill Holman, who grew up in Nappanee, is proudly displayed throughout the building.

In 1962, Nappanee Fire received permission from Holman to use the character, cementing Smokey Stover as the department’s beloved mascot. Visitors entering the new station are greeted by a replica of Smokey’s playful “Foo” car, with comic panels adorning the walls of the station’s training room.

“The opening of this facility marks a milestone in Nappanee’s continued investment in public safety, innovation, and community pride,” Mayor Jenkins says.

The new Nappanee Fire Station officially began operations on Monday, Oct. 13.

Dive Deeper into Project Visuals and Key Features in Our Government & Municipal Portfolio

Elkhart County Educators Forum

Posted on September 26, 2025

Note: Weigand Construction is currently managing projects at Baugo Community Schools and Concord Community Schools. Of the seven school districts in Elkhart County, Weigand has active or completed projects with five: Baugo, Concord, Fairfield, Goshen, and Wa-Nee Community Schools.

School Partnerships Shaping Elkhart County’s Future

In mid-September, three Elkhart County superintendents gathered at the Matterhorn for the Greater Elkhart Chamber of Commerce’s annual breakfast forum, where they discussed the challenges of creating new programs and partnerships and the progress schools are making to prepare students for the future.

The shared message was that public education is effective, but its success depends on consistent investment, strong collaboration, and community support.

Celebrating Student Successes

Baugo Community Schools Superintendent Byron Sanders opened the forum with news from Jimtown, where students are gaining real-world experience through career pathways and apprenticeships.

“High school students are working alongside certified teachers, learning pedagogy, practicing classroom management, and applying skills in real-world settings,” Sanders said. “These are real, meaningful experiences happening every day in our district.”

Concord Superintendent Dan Funston highlighted nearly 20 percent growth in reading scores over the past two years, crediting investments in early literacy. He also pointed to Concord High School’s entry into the Carnegie Foundation’s Future of High School Network, which emphasizes problem-solving, collaboration, and other skills beyond test scores.

“Through project-based learning, job experiences, and performance tasks,” Funston said, “students are preparing for life beyond the classroom.”

Addressing Today’s Challenges

The superintendents addressed pressing challenges facing Elkhart County schools, starting with the shortage of early childhood education opportunities. Funston described the county as an “early learning desert,” with limited preschool access and inconsistent state funding. “It’s far easier to teach children to read when they have a strong foundation,” he said.

In addition to early learning, Elkhart Superintendent Larry Huff said rising inflation, along with the recently enacted Senate Enrolled Act 1, a new Indiana property and income tax measure, are tightening school budgets in Elkhart County and across the state.

Teacher staffing remains a pressing issue. Sanders pointed to the nationwide shortage, noting research from the Learning Policy Institute released this summer showing that about one in eight teaching positions across the U.S. are either vacant or filled by someone without full certification. In Indiana, that shortage equates to roughly nine unfilled teaching positions for every 10,000 students.

Funston added that negative narratives around teaching only deepen the problem, saying schools must “uplift the profession and share its positive stories.”

Community Partnerships as Solutions

Despite these challenges, schools are finding solutions through partnerships. At Concord Community Schools, for example, work-based learning programs supported by local businesses provide students with at least 75 hours of hands-on experience addressing real-world problems.

Funston explained that employers don’t have to hire or pay students; simply presenting a workplace challenge allows schools to design project-based units around it. “These experiences show students the value of their education and prepare them for local careers with real pathways to success,” he said.

Districts are also joining forces with higher education. Elkhart Community Schools partners with Indiana University South Bend to give students a head start. High schoolers can earn college credit, and seniors benefit from a streamlined admissions process.

A Call to Action

The superintendents made it clear that schools cannot succeed alone; families, businesses, and community members are critical partners in student success.

Moderator Levon Johnson, president and CEO of the Greater Elkhart Chamber of Commerce, outlined two action steps: do the research and share the stories. He urged residents to review district websites and reports, then promote positive narratives in conversations and on social media.

“Public education remains the choice for 92 percent of Indiana families, and 97 percent of Elkhart County children attend public schools,” Sanders said. “That reflects the trust our communities place in schools — and the responsibility we all share for their success.”

Passing the Torch

Posted on September 18, 2025

An Excerpt from our Q3 Newsletter

Diane Woodworth to Conclude Her Role, Mike Keaffaber to Join Weigand

Since 2020, I’ve had the privilege of serving as the Business Development Education Specialist at Weigand Construction. After a long and rewarding career in K–12 as a teacher, counselor, principal, and superintendent, this role has been a meaningful way to stay connected with friends and colleagues in a different, yet familiar, setting.

Rather than managing a district, I’ve had the chance to walk alongside other administrators as they plan for their schools’ needs. Drawing on what I learned while guiding more than $100M in construction as a superintendent, I’ve been able to help K–12 clients shape their goals and projects with confidence.

It’s been a joy to serve our region’s educators, but this chapter is coming to an end. At the close of 2025, I will be stepping down from my role at Weigand Construction.

I’m comforted knowing that our K–12 partners will be in excellent hands. Mike Keaffaber, former superintendent of MSD of Wabash County, will be stepping into this position, and you’ll be hearing from him very soon!

To the many colleagues and friends in education that I’ve had the pleasure of working with over the last five years: thank you for every conversation, challenge, and success we’ve shared. The memories and relationships made here will stay with me always. I look forward to cheering on the important work you’ll continue to do for our schools and communities!

With Gratitude,

Diane Woodworth

Business Development Education Specialist

4 Features Arriving in New Homeless Shelter

Posted on September 15, 2025

Click Here to See Highlights from the Event

This August, our team stood alongside Vincent Village, Inc., project partners, and community representatives to break ground on a new homeless shelter.

“We are laying the foundation for brigher futures, stronger families. This shelter represents an $18M investment but we are just not breaking ground on a new shelter, we’re breaking ground on human potential.” – Rohli Booker, Director of Mission Advancement, Vincent Village, Inc. and Fort Wayne City Council Member

This project, which is part of a larger campaign to revitalize the southeast section of the city, was made possible through generous donations and an open network of support from the surrounding Fort Wayne community. It is a turning point for the nonprofit organization, which has operated since 1989 with a mission to create pathways for families in need, facilitating a transition from a state of crisis to long-term stability.

Building New Opportunities

Planned by MartinRiley Architects and developed by Weigand Construction, the new transitional shelter will greatly expand the operational capacity of Vincent Village’s programming with features such as:

13 Bedrooms
Kitchen
Laundry Room
Multi-Use Youth Services Room

“Currently, our shelter’s 10 rooms. There’s only two bathrooms in the current shelter, so all the families share those bathrooms. In the new shelter, each room will have its own bathroom, building dignity and support.” – Rob Haworth, Executive Director, Vincent Village, Inc.

This facility will create a greater sense of ownership and privacy for families who are receiving care through the organization, providing spaces where they can recover and as they proactively take steps towards a new beginning. The project also involves demolition of some existing structures on Vincent Village propery, including the removal of the historic St. Hyacinth Church, which was the original home of Vincent Village 36 years ago.

A New Chapter

This event was more than groundbreaking, it was a milestone marking a new story of hope for families throughout the southeast region of Fort Wayne, Indiana. We are excited to work alongside Vincent Village and MartinRiley in helping bring the vision of this new shelter to life.

Bright Students Celebrate Latest EACS Development

Posted on September 15, 2025

See Moments from the Groundbreaking Event Here

The second-grade class at Southwick Elementary was excited to help kick off construction of their forthcoming facility, located on Paulding Road in Fort Wayne. The project, set to finish in 2027, is one of three that Weigand is managing for East Allen County Schools, alongside the new Lions Fieldhouse and the East Allen University/Paul Harding Junior High School campus renovation.

“The project represents a commitment to our students. It is a commitment to building a future for them and a place where they will learn, grow, and thrive in spaces that support their curiosity and creativity.” – Marilyn Hissong, Superintendent, East Allen County Schools

A Growing District

Designed by Garmann Miller, the new facility will bring much needed space to address the school’s burgeoning student population. Attendance increased by 8% over the last year alone, with more expected in the near future. With this in mind, the replacement building will have:

Pod Style Layout
Gymnasium
Double Sided Stage
Classrooms
Dining Area
Community Event Spaces

With some students currently being housed in the nearby Prince Chapman Academy, the completion of this project will be a welcome addition to the EACS roster, helping to manage the influx of young learners entering the district.

A Team Effort

While sharing her remarks during the event, Superintendent Marilyn Hissong noted that it takes collaboration and the involvement of the entire region to help such an undertaking as this one materialize.

“This school will stand as a symbol of what’s possible when a community comes together for its children.” – Marilyn Hissong, Superintendent, East Allen County Schools

We’re thankful to be part of the group delivering the new Southwick Elementary building, which is positioned to nurture future generations of students as they develop, discover, and grow.

Concord’s Jake Field Track: A Historic Concrete Pour

Posted on August 27, 2025

From dusk to dawn on Aug. 22, Weigand Construction crews completed Concord High School’s Jake Field competition track in one seamless, nine-hour pour.

Watch the Time-Lapse Here (Video)

By building the track as a single surface, crews eliminated the weak points that typically form between segmented sections. This continuous foundation enhances drainage and ensures long-term durability. A cushioned rubber-and-polyurethane layer will be added this fall, providing athletes with a softer, more forgiving surface.

The investment delivers long-term reliability and performance. In northern Indiana, freeze-thaw cycles are notorious for causing concrete to crack, but by removing joints that collect water and ice, the new surface is engineered to last for decades of use.

The strength and stability of this design also comes from within as the track makes use of post-tension cables, a technique found in parking decks, tennis courts, and even airport runways. As concrete expands and contracts in response to temperature changes, cracks can form. Tightened after curing, the cables compress the surface, reducing stress points and preventing water from seeping in.

A Foundation Serving Generations

“The cables come with a 50-year warranty,” the project’s Superintendent RJ Eck says, “providing Concord Community Schools confidence in the project’s quality.”

Executing the continuous pour required meticulous coordination and precision. Nearly 1,000 cubic yards of concrete were delivered in a steady rotation, with batching, placement, and finishing carefully managed throughout the day.

“A single continuous pour gives Concord athletes a lasting foundation,” Eck says. “We’re proud to deliver on our promise — Trust. Well built. — and grateful to the district’s leaders for their confidence in us.”

Significant changes are underway at Jake Field, where a major renovation is transforming the facility into a multi-sport, multi-use hub for students and the community.

The centerpiece of the renovation is a new turf system that replicates the appearance of natural grass. Beneath the surface, drainage layers and a stone base will ensure the field remains playable even after heavy rain.

Adaptive Use for Sports, Students, and Special Events

Designed for versatility, the new field will carry permanent stripes for football and soccer, with color-coded markings to keep play clear for athletes and referees. Track and field competitors will also benefit from dedicated zones for long jump, high jump, discus, shot put, and pole vault, ensuring Concord can host meets and provide students with the opportunity to train at home.

Fans will enjoy expanded seating and a new concession building with restrooms, while athletes gain a dedicated team facility complete with lockers and training rooms.

The atmosphere is receiving an upgrade as well. Musco LED lighting and a new sound system will deliver energy-efficient visibility while adding celebratory displays synchronized with touchdowns, goals, and special events.

When it reopens for the 2026–27 academic year, Jake Field will serve as a central venue for athletes, students, families, and the broader Elkhart County community well into the future.

Wellness Program Hits New Milestone

Posted on August 13, 2025

Weigand Construction has received the 5-Star AchieveWELL Designation, awarded by the Wellness Council of Indiana. The Wellness Council of Indiana is a 501(c)(3) organization and a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Indiana Chamber of Commerce dedicated to improving workplace and community well-being in Indiana.

A Holsitic Approach

This designation establishes us as an organization that values employee health and well-being. Our goal is to foster a culture of wellness that takes the whole employee into consideration. Here are a few of the supports we offer in this endeavor:

Health Coaching and Classes
Mental Health and Nutrition Educational Resources
Workout Reimbursements
Fitness Activity and Exercise Challenges
Employee “Lunch and Learn” Sessions

We are excited to receive this designation and look forward to continue exploring new avenues to support our employees in their health and well-being journeys.