JIM
WIENOLD

Chief Executive Officer

Text:
+1 847-421-5940

Email:
[email protected]

WI, IL, FL

BEARcc.com

Schedule Time with Jim

Since co-founding BEAR Construction in 1984, Jim has embodied what BEAR stands for: hard work, high standards, and heart. With over four decades of industry experience, Jim has led by example, not from a corner office, but from the ground up.

As President, Jim oversees company-wide operations with a clear focus: get the job done right, take care of your people, and never lose sight of what matters. Whether it’s a high-tech healthcare facility or a modest office build-out, Jim believes no job is too small when it’s done with pride.

What makes BEAR different under Jim’s leadership? It's the family culture. Many team members have stayed for decades, and that loyalty speaks volumes. Jim has built more than buildings (he’s built a workplace where people want to stay, grow, and do their best work.)

He also leads BEAR’s Healthcare Division — one of the most respected in the Midwest — helping hospitals and clinics stay ahead of regulations, technology, and patient needs. With a degree in Building Science and Construction Management (Magna Cum Laude, University of Wisconsin–Stout), Jim brings both practical insight and strategic vision.

Outside of work, Jim serves on multiple community boards and professional associations, always looking for ways to give back.

📌 Quick Facts:

BEAR Experience: Since Day One – 1984
Industry Experience: Since 1978
Education: B.S., Building Science/Construction Management, UW–Stout (Magna Cum Laude)
Community Involvement: Ascension Foundation, Boys & Girls Club, AFE, HESNI, ASHE, USGBC

Confidence in Every Project, Integrity in Every Detail.

At BEAR construction, we bring your vision to life with expert craftsmanship and exceptional project management.

Specializing in healthcare, municipal, tenant improvement, and industrial construction, we deliver exceptional quality every step of the way.

Who We Build For
because every space should serve a bigger goal.

Healthcare

We've partnered with healthcare networks, facility managers, and institutions to deliver projects ranging from hospitals and outpatient centers to labs and assisted living facilities. Our deep understanding of healthcare logistics, infection control, and safety requirements ensures precision and care in every build.

Interiors

Our Interiors Group specializes in delivering high-quality commercial interior projects of all sizes—on time and on budget. From quick repairs to multi-floor build-outs, our team consistently exceeds expectations for corporate offices, capital improvements, mission critical, and finance/legal spaces.

Industrial

Our Industrial team brings deep expertise to complex projects across sectors—from site developments and plant expansions to advanced R&D labs—while prioritizing safety, quality, and efficiency. With a flexible, solution-driven approach we tailor each project to meet your goals on time and within budget.

New Construction/Solar

We have deep expertise in planning, management, and navigating zoning challenges to deliver successful ground-up builds. From healthcare facilities to adaptive reuse and residential developments, we turn complex ideas into completed projects.

Municipalities/Education

We partner with municipalities and educational institutions to deliver projects that serve for years to come. From campus renovations to critical infrastructure, we maximize value, minimize disruption, and ensure lasting quality even in occupied environments.

Retail/Hospitality

We deliver retail, hospitality, and restaurant projects with the speed, precision, and efficiency needed to meet critical deadlines and launches. Our team focuses on cost-effective execution without compromising quality, experience and time.

Let's Build It together.

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Why Choose BEAR Construction?

We Build More Than Structures, We Build Trust.

Unparalleled Expertise: Over four decades of industry leadership you can trust.
Exceptional Quality: $5+ billion in completed projects across diverse sectors.
Reliable Partnership: Dedicated, proactive project management that ensures peace of mind and successful outcomes.

Projects That Set Us Apart

The Old Chicago Post Office

WINNER: 2023 Landmarks Illinois Richard H. Driehaus Foundation Preservation Award for Adaptive Reuse
WINNER: 2021 Green Roof for Healthy Cities Award of Excellence
WINNER: 2020 CISCO Project of the Year for Rehabilitation
WINNER: 2020 Illinois Real Estate Journal Redevelopment/Reuse/Historic
WINNER: 2020 March of Dimes Construction Award
WINNER: 2020 Greater Chicago Food Depository Office Redevelopment of the Year
WINNER: 2020 Chicago Building Congress Renovation & Adaptive Reuse Merit Award
WINNER: 2020 ENR Midwest Renovation/Restoration Award of Merit

BEAR Construction led the $1.2B restoration of Chicago’s Old Post Office—the largest historic redevelopment in the U.S.—transforming the long-vacant, 2.8M SF landmark into a thriving commercial hub through strategic planning, complex coordination, and phased execution.

Rusu-McCartin Boys & Girls Club of Chicago

The Rusu-McCartin Boys & Girls Club is the first newly-built Chicago Club in over a generation, located on a shared campus with first responders and minority-owned businesses. This 28,000-SF facility features classrooms, a teaching kitchen, an ideas lab, a gym, outdoor play space, and a rooftop deck designed to serve and inspire Chicago’s youth.

Saints Mary and Elizabeth Cancer Center - Chicago, IL

BEAR built a 14,300-SF new AMITA Health Saints Mary and Elizabeth Cancer Center addition attached to what was a 4,000-SF convent. The new center can diagnose and treat cancer in the same building, and houses a newly-built linear accelerator (LINAC) and ancillary spaces.

1ND 11th Floor Spec Suite and Corridor - Chicago, IL

Within the 100+-year-old historic building, BEAR built the 19K-SF 11th Floor Spec Suite and Corridors. The space features an open floor plan with glass fronts, curved pendant lighting, custom millwork at the reception entry and beautiful arch-shaped details that are carried throughout the space in the pantry area, at doorways and as decorative paint features in the smaller conference rooms.

Guaranteed Rate Field – Gate 5 Plaza - Chicago, IL

As part of a security perimeter upgrade at Guaranteed Rate Field, home of the Chicago White Sox, BEAR Construction completed a multi-phased project that consisted of a new underground storm water management system, increased security measures including installing more than 70 new steel safety bollards and a refreshed entry area that featured new landscaping and permanent retail storefront structures, outdoor public gathering spaces and a fan-friendly restoration to the historic display of home plate from the old Comiskey Park.

One Two Pru Roof Deck - Chicago, IL

This 7,000-SF rooftop terrace, perched above the park with lakefront views, features lounge areas, amphitheater seating, a gas fireplace, and an Airstream food truck for daily service. Built by BEAR, the rooftop connects to a full-service lounge and fitness center, with landscaping flown in by helicopter to complete the experience.

DuPage Court of Elgin - Elgin, IL

This streetscape project in Elgin involved a full demolition and rebuild of a half-block pedestrian plaza, complete with new underground utilities, decorative brick pavers, lighting, and outdoor seating. Finished with a custom steel entry arch and LED lighting, the revitalized space now anchors the retail district with improved functionality and charm.`

Axis at 1SW - Chicago, IL

The new 56,000-SF Amenity Center ‘Axis’ at 1SW includes a full-service fitness center with locker rooms and studios, a lounge with a custom bar, an open atrium showcasing a Yellow Goat sculpture above and a roof deck overlooking Wacker Drive. The space features wood flooring, LED light fixtures, build-in Bluetooth speakers, indoor and outdoor fireplaces and a coffee bar. The roof deck has glass hand rails along the perimeter and made-to order landscape planters.

River Park at THE MART - Chicago, IL

River Park at THE MART is a standout addition to Chicago’s riverfront, featuring 100 custom steel planters, Ipe wood decking, FSC-certified seating from around the world, and a 360° sound system. Phase 2 brought major structural upgrades, granite pavers, expanded landscaping, and weather-ready amenities that elevate both form and function for year-round enjoyment.

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Let's Bring it to Life

Giving Back, Building Communities

It's not just about building spaces, it's about strengthening the people who fill them.

BEAR Care Foundation

BEAR Construction is deeply committed to enriching the communities we serve. Through our BEAR Care Foundation, we actively support local initiatives, charities, and programs, making a meaningful impact beyond the job site.

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