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Our Story

History | Leadership | Dependability | Values | Community Support
For more than a century, Johnson & Galyon has shaped the landscape of East Tennessee through integrity, craftsmanship, and innovation. From landmark civic projects to state-of-the-art facilities, our work reflects a deep commitment to quality and community. What began in 1914 as a small local builder has grown into one of the region’s most respected construction firms—guided by the same principles of hard work, honesty, and excellence that defined our founders. Every project we take on is more than a structure; it’s a lasting contribution to the people and places we’re proud to serve.
community impact

Progress built year by year

1914
A.H. Whisman starts the company
After its founding, the company was off to a quick start with W.K. Johnson joining the company in 1919. By 1920, the company had built two area landmarks in Cherokee Country Club and the Knox County Courthouse, both of which stand today as a testament to their construction.
1924-1933
Continued Growth & Impact
The company continues building its legacy with projects like St. Mary's Hospital and several projects for the University of Tennessee: Strong Hall, Ferris Hall, and the James D. Hoskins Library.
1934-1953
Legacy Projects
This twenty year span includes the construction of the Alumni Gymnasium for the University of Tennessee, First Presbyterian Church in Kingsport, East TN Baptist Hospital, the State Office Building, and Grainger County Courthouse.
1954-1973
Healthcare Facilities
During these years, the company builds the Healthcare facilities that will continue to serve the community for decades to come: Ut Medical Center in 1956, Fort Sanders Professional Building in 1961, and East TN Baptist Hospital additions.
1974-1993
The World's Fair & Downtown Knoxville
The 1982 World's Fair changed the trajectory of Knoxville - and the company played a large role with the construction of The Holiday Inn and L&N Station - both staples of the fairgrounds. The late 80s and early 90s changed the landscape in Knoxville with the addition of the Riverview Tower, Thompson Cancer Survival Center, and the Whittle Building/Howard Baker Courthouse.
1994-2008
Community Impact
The 21st Century ushered in a new wave of recognizable landmarks, including Volunteer Landing, Jefferson Memorial Hospital, Millers Building, Pilot Headquarters, Park West Hospital, Tennova North, and additions/renovations to Neyland Stadium, Children's Hospital, and the East TN Historical Society.
2009-Present
Continued Legacy
Ayers Hall at the University of Tennessee is fully renovated, University of Tennessee Natalie L. Haslam Music Center, Knoxville Transit Center, and UTMC Heart Hospital Surgery addition all carry on Johnson & Galyon's impact on the community.
meet the Team

Leadership

Doug Kennedy
Chief Executive Officer
Susan Bacon
Chief Financial Officer
Craig Daniel
Executive Vice President of Preconstruction
Chad Brewster
Vice President - Director of Healthcare Construction
Wes Crow
Vice President - Director of Commercial Construction
our purpose

Our Values

Our commitment is simple: deliver exceptional quality at an agreed-upon price, within the timeframe our clients expect. Since 1914, we’ve been proud to see our buildings touch lives across East Tennessee—and we’re even prouder to continue building our region’s future.

OUR PURPOSE: We exist to build meaningful relationships and places that endure—creating spaces that are a source of pride for clients, communities, and our team.
Relationships
We value people and build trust before we build anything else.
Truthfulness
We listen carefully and communicate with honesty, clarity, and respect.
Dependability
We reliably do what we say.
Accountability
We stand behind our work.
Integrity
We instinctively do what is right.
rooted in community
Community Support
For more than a century, Johnson & Galyon has taken pride in helping Knoxville and the surrounding region thrive. Giving back is part of who we are. Our team volunteers time, contributes resources, and serves on boards across a wide range of community organizations, including:
‍
• United Way
• Emerald Youth Foundation
• The First Tee of Greater Knoxville
• Knoxville Area Chamber of Commerce
• East Tennessee Children’s Hospital
• Knoxville Symphony Orchestra
• Patricia Neal Rehabilitation Center
• East Tennessee Community Design Center
• American Heart Association
• Several Colleges of the University of Tennessee
GETTING STARTED IS EASY

Ready to build something remarkable?

1130 Atlantic Avenue
Knoxville, TN 37917
865-688-1111
info@johnsongalyon.com
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Since 1914, Johnson & Galyon has helped shape the built environment of East Tennessee—constructing many of the region’s most recognizable and meaningful landmarks. When you work with us, you get more than a builder. You get a partner who is committed through every step of the pre-construction and construction process and is invested in the future of every market that we serve. We’re ready to help you build the remarkable.