In 2015, after 30 years of dedicated leadership, Al Stewart made the pivotal decision to transition ownership of Structural Buildings. He had built the company on a foundation of quality, integrity, and customer relationships, and he wanted to ensure that its legacy would continue in the right hands. With careful consideration, he chose his son Chad Stewart, along with Doug Haecherl, Vice President of Sales, and Troy Engen, Chief Operating Officer, to take the helm. This transition was more than a change in leadership—it was a promise that the values Al had instilled would live on and guide the company into the future.
The decade that followed was marked by significant growth and expansion. Under the new leadership, Structural Buildings not only upheld its reputation for excellence but also reached new heights. The company expanded beyond its original locations, opening branches in Frederic, Wisconsin, and Crosslake, Minnesota. These strategic additions allowed Structural Buildings to better serve its growing customer base, reinforcing its presence in the region and strengthening its ability to deliver high-quality post-frame, steel-frame, and commercial construction projects.
As the company grew, so did the leadership team’s commitment to innovation and service. Chad, Doug, and Troy worked tirelessly to uphold the company’s core values while embracing new technologies and industry advancements. Customers continued to rely on Structural Buildings for their construction needs, knowing they could expect the same level of expertise and care that had been the company’s trademark since its founding.
In 2025, Doug Haecherl retired, closing a chapter on his impactful career at Structural Buildings. His contributions to the company, particularly in sales and customer relationships, played a vital role in its success. Though Doug stepped away, the leadership remained strong with Chad and Troy at the helm, ensuring that Structural Buildings would continue on its path of excellence and innovation.
Reflecting on the past ten years, it is clear that the transition of ownership was more than just a passing of the torch. It was a continuation of a legacy built on hard work, trust, and a commitment to delivering the best for customers. Today, as Structural Buildings celebrates this milestone, it does so with gratitude for its past and excitement for its future. The company stands as a testament to the vision Al Stewart had when he founded it and the dedication of the leaders who have carried it forward. The next decade holds endless possibilities, but one thing remains certain—Structural Buildings will continue to build with integrity, just as it has for the past forty years.
