Over 50 years of quality and integrity

Preston Construction is a general contracting company serving Northeast Tennessee and the surrounding region.  In its second generation of leadership, Preston Construction remains true to its founding values of quality, honesty and hard work.

Preston Construction was founded in 1967 by the late John Richard “Dick” Preston, Sr.  The company began by building spec homes along with residential grading and site preparation.  After becoming a licensed contractor in 1971, Dick quickly moved the company into the custom built home and office sector.  

Dick’s wife, Claudia Preston, began working alongside of him in the business in 1974 in a secretarial and accounting role.  Upon incorporation in 1988, she was responsible for bringing the company into the computer age, and transitioned into her current role as Office Manager and CFO.

Dick’s son, John “Richard” Preston, Jr., worked alongside of him during high school and college, learning all aspects of the construction industry, including the business side, while gleaning from his father’s integrity and work ethic.

In the mid 1980’s, Preston Construction began commercial building, contracting for many local companies and organizations.  Strong relationships with local and regional architects, educational institutions, governments and utilities have only strengthened since that time.

In 2001, upon the death of the founder, Claudia and Richard joined forces to continue Preston Construction and expand the business.  Richard was appointed to President and CEO, while Claudia continued her role as Office Manager and CFO.  Preston Construction and its experienced workforce have continued to grow steadily and stand firm in their commitment to building long-term relationships based on integrity, performance, and value.

OUR FOUNDER

  John Richard “Dick” Preston was a native of Johnson City.  He grew up on a dairy farm, having a strong work ethic and many responsibilities from a young age.  Dick participated in 4H for many years and was the TN State Tractor Driving Champion in 1961.

He became interested in building while helping his family build apartments during his early college days at East Tennessee State University.  He then went on to graduate from Virginia Tech in 1967 with a degree in Building Construction.  

Upon graduation, he immediately began his own company, building spec homes in the then new “Forest Hills Subdivision,” and doing grading work for other contractors.

In 1971 Dick became a licensed contractor and quickly moved to building custom homes and offices.

Throughout his years as a general contractor, Dick always paid special attention to details, never cutting corners.  His and his company’s reputation were of utmost importance to him and his focus on good employee relations will have a lasting impact on the company for years to come.