Our History

As one of the most well-known and well-respected construction firms in the Midwest, Leopardo has a rich, deep history that began in Chicago in 1979.

In 1979, James A. Leopardo opened Leopardo Companies, Inc. as an entrepreneurial construction firm in Chicago. Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Leopardo quickly grew into one of the most well-respected and trusted builders in the Midwest. During that time, Inc. Magazine ranked the contractor three separate times for being one of the nation’s 500 Fastest Growing Companies.

Three decades later, Leopardo is one of the nation’s largest 300 contractors with 400 employees who successfully complete hundreds of projects per year. We’ve earned countless awards and accolades from our peers, clients and the media. In 2009, Leopardo is a thriving family-oriented operation that embraces every project with the same enthusiasm and care as it did the first.

Today, Leopardo is a recognized leader in construction, design-build and commercial real estate development. As a skilled green builder, Leopardo’s sustainable experience spans all LEED rating levels, including Silver, Gold and Platinum.

Sure we’re a big company, but as you get to know us you will find that the entrepreneurial spirit by which we were founded is still prevalent in our firm today – from the open-door leadership we employ to the emerging industries we serve to the landmark projects we build.