Gustav “Gus” Ladehoff Sr. founds Clinton Engineering Company in Clinton, Iowa, following his work with Ladehoff & Miller Construction. From the start, Clinton Engineering is grounded in hard work, practical problem-solving, and building for the community.

The company operates from the Wilson Building downtown Clinton before eventually relocating to North 2nd Street. While not a traditional engineering firm, internal engineering expertise supports structural design, formwork, utilities, and project execution across early work.

1929: Completed the iconic Riverview Pool and Bathhouse in Clinton.

1930: Constructed the Route 136 Bridge in Delmar, Iowa.

1931: Built the Tucker Building, one of Clinton’s notable historic structures.

1933: Renovated the Lyons Bridge, replacing the original wood deck with a metal grate deck. The bridge reopening includes a celebrated high-dive stunt from the bridge into the Mississippi River.

Following the passing of Gus Ladehoff Sr., leadership transitioned to his sons Art Ladehoff and Gus Ladehoff Jr.

Established a strong reputation throughout Eastern Iowa for school construction, roads, bridges, and civil infrastructure projects.

Allen Rutenbeck joined Clinton Engineering after serving in World War 2 and graduating from the University of Iowa to oversee estimating, bidding, and office operations.

Art Jr. took the lead in field operations, continuing the Ladehoff family legacy into a third generation.

Outside of construction, company leadership and family connections help launch Big Foot Decoys, which grows into a nationally recognized brand—reflecting the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit connected to the Clinton Engineering legacy.

Vern Rosenberry acquired Clinton Engineering and relocated operations to the facility on Lincolnway.

Clinton Engineering faced a critical insurance crisis that nearly halted operations but continued through the State of Iowa insurance pool program. Despite challenges, Clinton Engineering strengthened its foundation through key industrial clients and long-term partnerships, reinforcing its resilience and commitment to staying operational.

Expands industrial construction services and strengthens relationships with major regional clients including:

• LyondellBasell (formerly Camplex)
• ADM/Clinton Corn
• Determann Asphalt
• Numerous municipal partners

Under Bob Stangeland’s ownership, Clinton Engineering:

• Re-enters building construction
• Expands structural steel operations
• Becomes a STAR Building Systems dealer
• Grows its project management and estimating teams

Clinton Engineering, along with Foley Construction, became part of McCarthy-Bush Corporation. This transition brought additional resources and support while allowing the company to maintain its identity and core strengths in industrial and infrastructure work.

Completed major riverfront improvements including:

• Liberty Square wave walls
• Decorative steel structures
• Pergolas
• Riverfront infrastructure enhancements

Constructed the Clinton Marina and the building that houses the Candlelight Inn, showcasing the capabilities of local contractors and suppliers.

Continued delivering major industrial, municipal, and commercial projects throughout the Gateway Area while strengthening relationships with regional manufacturers and municipalities.

Completed Welcome Gateway Park, creating a new landmark entrance feature for the community.

Clinton Engineering continues delivering impactful projects while investing in its people, partnerships, and future growth.

Delivered notable projects including:

• Clinton Airport Terminal and Hangar
• Clinton County Eco-Tourism Center
• Former Target redevelopment and renovation
• Alverno renovations and upgrades
• Determann Asphalt award-winning office and shop facility
• Sawmill Museum addition
• Bickelhaupt Arboretum improvements

Clinton Engineering marked its 100-year anniversary, celebrating a century of building, problem-solving, and community impact. To honor the occasion, Clinton Engineering hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony alongside other community-focused events.