News Summary
Former Rockford CEO Mike VanGessel has been appointed to the board of directors at Invictus Builders, aiming to enhance diversity in Detroit’s construction industry. Co-leading with Dennis Archer Jr., VanGessel’s involvement signifies a commitment to fostering an inclusive environment and supporting the firm’s mission. Invictus Builders, established by former Rockford executives, specializes in various construction services and emphasizes community engagement and workforce diversity. As the company grows, it intends to empower local communities while providing opportunities for young professionals in the sector.
Detroit – Former Rockford CEO Mike VanGessel has joined the board of directors of Invictus Builders, a minority-owned construction firm, to help advance diversity in the city’s construction industry. This strategic appointment will see VanGessel co-leading the board alongside Dennis Archer Jr., the founder and chairman of sixteen42 ventures. As an investor in Invictus Builders, VanGessel is enthusiastic about contributing to the company’s mission of fostering an inclusive economic environment within the construction sector.
Invictus Builders originated from Rockford’s operations in Detroit and was officially established in July 2024 by Matt Evans and Kent Jackson, former vice presidents at Rockford’s Detroit office. The company is headquartered in Detroit’s central business district at 220 W. Congress St. and specializes in construction management, general contracting, consulting, and pre-construction estimating services throughout Michigan and the Midwest.
Invictus Builders has secured notable clients, including Wayne County Community College, Parkstone Development Partners, Back Nine in Oakland County, and 1515 Madison in Grand Rapids. With this growing portfolio, the firm aims to expand its impact in southeastern Michigan while championing a diverse workforce within the industry. The board also includes Eric A. Reeves, the founder of Prospect Park LLC in Chicago, and Rachel Scott, managing member of SPARC Investments based in Cleveland.
In addition to leading Invictus Builders, VanGessel plans to co-manage his investment company, VanGessel Investments, which seeks to diversify its interests beyond real estate. His extensive experience in shaping downtown Grand Rapids over the past two decades positions him strategically to connect local communities with development opportunities.
Both Evans and Jackson are committed to emphasizing diversity and inclusion within the firm. Evans, now serving as the CEO, has also been actively engaged in the community, working to train students in designing and installing solar panels to empower youth in Detroit. Jackson, who brings 30 years of experience in construction management, focuses on overseeing the pre-construction, procurement, and construction phases within Invictus.
Invictus Builders aims to disrupt the traditional top-down approach to development, striving for a more community-driven model that encourages collaboration and engagement with local stakeholders. The firm is dedicated to establishing an office in Grand Rapids and hiring local talent as projects become available, ensuring that economic benefits are felt across the region.
Kevin Johnson, the CEO of the Detroit Economic Growth Corporation, has acknowledged Invictus Builders’ commitment to enhancing inclusive economic growth and opportunities in Detroit. The company is poised to create additional pathways for young professionals in the construction industry, further contributing to the local economy and workforce development.
As VanGessel and his fellow leaders set out to build upon Invictus Builders’ foundation, they also look to promote diversity as a core value in all operations. Their overarching aim is to empower local communities and ensure that all voices are represented in the construction landscape of Detroit and beyond.
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Additional Resources
- Crain’s Grand Rapids: Rockford Founder Joins Detroit Business Leader to Head New Construction Firm Board
- MLive: Grand Rapids Construction Veteran Tapped to Help Lead Board of New Michigan Firm
- Detroit Chamber: Invictus Builders Launches with a Blueprint for Power, Equity, and Black-Led Development in Detroit
- MLive: After 38 Years Building Grand Rapids, Construction CEO Embarks on New Path
- Crain’s Grand Rapids: Former Rockford Construction CEO Will Stay Active After Leaving Lasting Mark on Grand Rapids
- Wikipedia: Construction
- Google Search: Diversity in Construction
- Google Scholar: Inclusive Economic Growth in Construction
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Construction Management
- Google News: Detroit Construction Industry
