For the past 70 years, Wellenstein & Sons, Inc. has been building some of Wisconsin’s most recognizable structures. Based in Pewaukee, this fourth-generation, family-owned carpentry subcontractor specializes in rough and finish carpentry, mass timber, and large-scale commercial projects. Projects across Southeastern Wisconsin and Madison have earned Wellenstein & Sons a reputation for quality, safety, and professionalism.

We spoke with owner and project manager, Nick Wellenstein, about tackling complex projects, mass timber construction, and what the future holds for the company.

Chris Mambu Rasch: Wellenstein & Sons has been building in this region for seven decades. Can you give us a quick overview of your company today?

Nick Wellenstein: We’re proud to be a fourth-generation, family-owned and operated carpentry subcontractor. Our team includes about 70 field carpenters and seven office staff, which allows us to take on some of the region’s largest and most complex carpentry contracts. In 2024, our volume exceeded $25 million through projects across Southeastern Wisconsin and Madison. While we’re often associated with wood framing, the majority of our work is actually on large commercial and high-end finish carpentry projects.

Chris: How did you personally get your start with Wellenstein & Sons?

Nick: Being a family business, I started early working in the shop when I was 12 years old. I continued working there through high school and took a break during college. After graduation, I returned to work full time and eventually purchased the business in 2021. It’s been a privilege to carry forward the company’s legacy while continuing to grow and evolve.

Chris: Can you highlight some of the more high-profile projects Wellenstein & Sons has been a part of?

Nick: We’ve been fortunate to contribute to many landmark projects in Wisconsin. Some of our recent work includes the 333 N Water Street Tower, Baird Center expansion, Northwestern Mutual’s New North Tower, the Milwaukee Public Museum, Nicolet High School, Ho-Chunk Beloit Casino, St. Camillus Tower, River House Apartments, the Medical College Cancer Research Building, and Theory Apartments. Each of these projects required a high level of coordination and craftsmanship, and we’re proud of the role we played in bringing them to life.

Chris: Your firm has taken on some of the largest and most complex projects in the region. What has enabled you to succeed at that level?

Nick: First and foremost, it’s our people. We have an incredibly talented field team of 70 carpenters and a strong group of foremen to supervise our projects. Over 18 of our lead carpenters have been with us for more than a decade, which provides continuity and expertise across jobs. Our experienced office team also does a great job handling the extensive amount of coordination, reporting and financial work that comes along with these projects. That combination of field and office talent allows us to consistently deliver on quality, safety, and schedule.

Chris: Wellenstein has also completed multiple mass timber projects. How did that become part of your portfolio?

Nick: Historically, we’ve done a lot of structural wood projects, so as mass timber has become more popular, it was a natural fit for us. Much of what our crews learned was on the job, building on past projects and our long history with wood construction. It’s now a niche we’ve become known for, and it’s definitely something we plan to continue.

Chris: What are some of the challenges you face on mass timber jobs?

Nick: Material coordination and lead times are probably the biggest hurdles. While there are now some domestic sourcing options, much of the material still comes from overseas or Canada, which adds complexity. That said, the results are worth it—mass timber creates beautiful, sustainable, and highly efficient structures.

Chris: How do industry partnerships help to strengthen your company?

Nick: ACEA does a tremendous job representing subcontractors, not only at the bargaining table but throughout the year when labor-related issues arise. CLMC is also a key partner by promoting financing opportunities for developers, hosting recruitment and career fairs, and organizing events that connect the industry. Partnerships like these create a stronger, more sustainable construction ecosystem, and we’re proud to be part of it.

Chris: Looking ahead, what are some of Wellenstein’s goals for the future?

Nick: We’re focused on expanding prefabrication in our shop to increase productivity and efficiency. We’re also continuing to grow our presence in Madison and are very committed to training the next generation of carpenters—we currently have 18 apprentices on our team. Long term, our goal is to keep building projects that make an impact on Wisconsin while maintaining the quality and professionalism that set us apart.

Learn more about Wellenstein & Sons: https://wellensteinandsons.com/