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Founder Jeb Johnson reflects on humble beginnings, hard-earned respect, and a legacy built on trust and craftsmanship
Founder Jeb Johnson (left) and the JEBCO Team. Serving Northern Arizona for 25 Years.
JEBCO Construction Co, a trusted leader in commercial construction throughout Northern Arizona, proudly celebrates its 25th anniversary in 2026. Founded in 2001 by owner Jeb Johnson at just 25 years old, the company has grown from modest beginnings into one of the region’s most respected construction firms, known for its integrity, quality craftsmanship, and commitment to community.
Jeb Johnson’s path into construction didn’t begin in an office. A third-generation member of a Prescott ranching family, Jeb grew up understanding the value of hard work. As a young man, he worked long days building fences and gathering cattle for his father. He then went on to oversee dirt work development in Phoenix for Sunstate Builders and later worked locally to expand his knowledge of construction trades.
An important influence during his early business years was his father-in-law, J.T. Purvis, who helped guide and cultivate Jeb’s understanding of long term thinking in business.
“My father-in-law, JT Purvis, helped get JEBCO off the ground,” Johnson said. “He introduced me to Bob Bell, who had owned a commercial metal building company. Bob agreed to consult and oversee the startup of JEBCO, and JT loaned me start-up money and provided office space upstairs in his ERA Real Estate building on Gurley Street. My wife, Jamie at the time was operating a salon and art gallery helping to make ends meet. We knew we wanted to build something of our own. The rest is history.”
Like many young entrepreneurs, Johnson faced skepticism in the early years. “One of the biggest challenges was earning respect and trust at a young age,” he said. “I didn’t have a handbook, I learned the business as I went and adapted quickly to challenges.”
Those early lessons helped shape the company’s foundation and instilled a culture of resilience and continuous improvement. Over the past 25 years, Johnson has witnessed significant changes in the construction industry—from handshake agreements to today’s highly documented and technology-driven processes.
“Back then, things were simpler. Deals were often made on a handshake, timelines were less compressed, and documentation wasn’t as extensive,” Johnson said. “Today, technology allows us to monitor projects in real time, communicate instantly, and document every detail. Implementing advanced software and systems has transformed how we operate and allows us to deliver even greater accountability and efficiency to our clients.”
JEBCO has embraced innovation while preserving its core commitment to quality craftsmanship. By leveraging modern construction software, researching advanced materials, and carefully selecting skilled subcontractors, the company ensures each project meets the highest standards.
Johnson credits JEBCO’s success to strong relationships, community trust, and a dedicated team. “Trust, referrals, and relationships have been essential to our growth,” he said. “We wouldn’t be in business today without being trustworthy.”
One of JEBCO’s early milestone projects was the construction of the Unisource Energy Services building, a 30,000-square-foot facility completed approximately 20 years ago. That project marked a turning point and helped establish JEBCO as a capable commercial builder in Northern Arizona.
Johnson also takes pride in how far the company has come “Being doubted early on and now being respected as one of the best construction companies in Northern Arizona is incredibly meaningful,” he said.
In the company’s early years, Johnson was deeply involved in fieldwork, managing jobs directly, and working alongside crews. Today, his role has evolved into strategic leadership and business development. “When I started, I was in the trenches and running jobs at the same time,” Johnson said. “Now, I focus on leading the company and staying ahead of opportunities while continuing to represent JEBCO and serve our clients.”
He emphasized that JEBCO’s team has been instrumental in the company’s success. “We are grateful for the JEBCO team. Everyone plays a vital role, and they truly have the company’s best interests at heart. Our culture is built on mutual respect, accountability, and always striving to improve.”
Raised on a ranch, Johnson developed a strong work ethic early in life, even knowing he wanted a different career path. Those early experiences helped shape his commitment to integrity and hard work. “From the beginning, our values have been simple: go above and beyond, and always be trustworthy,” Johnson said. “Those values remain at the core of everything we do.”
JEBCO’s journey has included both challenges and triumphs, including surviving the economic hardships of the 2008 recession. "During that time Jamie and I decided a significant change needed to be made if we were going to stay above water during that time. So, I took a project management job in San Antonio TX for one of the largest multifamily companies in the state. I was in charge of the San Antonio projects for approximately 2 years.
“Looking back at all the highs and lows, I am proud of what we’ve accomplished,” Johnson said. “We came close to folding during the recession, but we rebuilt stronger. We’re proud to have helped build this community and create jobs. Giving back and contributing to the future of Northern Arizona has always been important to us.”
As JEBCO celebrates its silver anniversary, Johnson remains focused on the future and the company’s legacy. “I’m looking forward to another 25 years,” he said. “My hope is to eventually pass the business down to my children. I don’t think I’ll ever fully retire, but I would like to spend more time traveling with my wife while knowing the company continues to thrive.”
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About JEBCO Construction Co
Founded in 2001 and headquartered in Prescott, Arizona, JEBCO Construction Co is a full-service commercial construction firm specializing in high-quality building solutions throughout Northern Arizona. With a reputation built on integrity, craftsmanship, and trusted relationships, JEBCO delivers comprehensive construction services ranging from commercial facilities to custom projects. For 25 years, the company has remained committed to excellence, innovation, and building lasting partnerships while helping shape the region’s growth and future.
