Vap Construction Celebrates 20 Years Of Excellence

Jeff Vap began his construction career in 1980, starting at the bottom as a 'grunt' for a construction company. His wife, Linda Young-Vap, was completely new to the field when the pair married in the early 2000s. Jeff often jokes that when they got married, Linda "didn’t know the difference between a two-by-four and a two-by-ten," but combining Jeff's construction background with Linda's knack for organization and communication, the pair decided to incorporate the company in 2005, laying the foundation for a business destined to leave a legacy spanning multiple generations. As they approach the 20th anniversary milestone, their journey continues to inspire. Their story is a true testament to working your way up from the bottom.

Starting out by building detached garages, Jeff and Linda saw an opportunity to expand their services, and in 2004 Vap Construction was born. In their first year, the company built 5 post-frame buildings and 50 garages. By the following year, demand for post frame construction skyrocketed, completing 75 post frame buildings compared to just 5 garages. It was clear they were on to something big, establishing their roots firmly in the construction industry.

It’s inspiring to picture all of this success beginning in a tiny home office. Jeff and Linda started their team with just a couple of helpers, including Linda’s brother, Jake, working off nothing more than a kitchen table. Before long, their sons Tyson and Dustin, along with nephews Taylor and Dylan, became key members of the team, further solidifying Vap Construction as a true family operation. As the business took off, they moved into a newly built office, which soon proved too small. Over time, that 'small' office grew with them, requiring five additions to keep up with their expanding team and operations.

The couple reflects on their journey, recounting both the mistakes and milestones along the way. They laugh as they remember Jeff managing to lose not one, not two, but three checks from completed projects! Or the time Linda, still in her pajamas, was caught off guard by a solicitor. While shaking their heads at these early mishaps, they also smile as they recall the moment one of their very first customers returned years later to purchase another building. For Linda, that customer’s loyalty was an eye-opener, and a reminder of the trust and support their business had built over the years.

Despite having a dedicated team with the drive to make it happen, the journey didn’t come without its share of tears and frustrations. Neither Jeff nor Linda had prior experience in business, and growing a new company proved to be an uphill battle. Navigating these challenges alongside a spouse - or as Jeff lovingly corrects, his best friend - brought its own set of difficulties. From interpersonal struggles, to financing operations, their success exemplifies their resilience and growth, both personally and as a company.

Jeff beams with pride when talking about the team they’ve built, saying, "There’s nothing better than a customer calling you and saying, ‘Hey, your builder was amazing.’" Both Jeff and Linda recognize that Vap Construction is much bigger than just the two of them; its success has been shaped by every team member who plays a role in the business. "We’ve got a fabulous team," Linda says, marveling at how they’ve managed to gather such an incredible group of people from their small county of just 3,000. "I learn from them. I grow from them."

"Many of our team members have been with Vap Construction for over a decade, becoming more than just valued employees, but part of our family. We are incredibly blessed to have such loyal and dedicated individuals on our team," Jeff and Linda Vap said. “Every key role deserves recognition for the vital contributions they've made to our success. Their hard work, commitment, and shared vision have been essential in keeping Vap Construction thriving for 20 years, with both long-time employees and family members contributing to our journey."

As Vap Construction looks to the future, Linda reflects on the weight of its legacy and the meaningful impact the company has on the community. Beyond creating jobs, many team members contribute to local life by serving as board members, volunteers, and coaches, roles that Vap proudly supports and encourages. The company’s influence extends far beyond the family name, deeply rooted in the community and strengthened by the shared support that has fueled its growth.

Jeff and Linda take pride in seeing their love for construction passed down to the next generation, both team members and family alike, as they continue to take on more responsibility. Their enthusiasm and willingness to grow instill confidence that Vap Construction’s future is secure. For them, it isn't just about building a business; it's about leaving a legacy of trust, loyalty, and community. Having already taken steps back, Jeff and Linda are proud to see Jennifer Leitner stepping into a larger leadership role, having grown with the company over the past decade.

As they look ahead, Jeff and Linda are excited to watch the next generation take the reins and build on the legacy they’ve worked so hard to create. Vap Construction will celebrate its 20th Anniversary in the spring of 2025 with a special event for its employees, crews, subcontractors, and their families. To learn more about the Vap family's journey, challenges, and insights, watch their story in the video "Lessons Learned in 25 Years of Post Frame Construction," where they share their experience in their own words: www.youtube.com/watch?v=TWqmh4nrMOM. To learn more about Vap Construction and stay updated on their latest projects, visit www.vapconstruction.com or connect with them on social media.