Our History
FoxArneson was built on the vision and values of our founder, Gary Fox, whose entrepreneurial spirit and relentless commitment to excellence laid the foundation for who we are today. Gary believed in more than just building structures, he believed in building trust, relationships, and a company where integrity, excellence, and humility lead the way.
Our Story
FoxArneson’s journey begins with our founder, Gary Fox, and his lifelong passion for construction. Faced with the choice between continuing college and starting a career, Gary accepted a position as a draftsman with Building System, Inc. (BSI), a pre-engineering commercial construction company in Middleton, WI. His talent and determination quickly propelled him upward, rising from draftsman to estimator, accountant, Vice President, and eventually a co-owner, while mastering every facet of the business.
In 1979, Gary brought his expertise in the pre-engineered construction industry to J. H. Findorff and Sons, Inc. where he led a new division called Building Systems-Findorff. There, he completed numerous projects, including the Nicolet Bio-Medical project, his first multi-story office and manufacturing facility. Four years later, in 1983, that division spun off as its own company, Building Systems General Corp. As co-owner and President, Gary continued to expand the business and secured the first Woodman’s project, sparking a partnership that endures today.
In 1987, Gary’s son-in-law, Jim Arneson, joined the company, and together they built a reputation for exceeding client expectations through hard work, collaboration, and an unwavering commitment to quality. In 2017, as the next generation prepared to lead, the company proudly adopted the name FoxArneson, Inc., a tribute to the legacy Gary created and the family values that continue to guide us.
Today, FoxArneson is led with the same passion and vision by Jim Arneson, joined by his son Tom Arneson, who represents the third generation of leadership. Their dedication to integrity, excellence, and humility ensures that Gary’s remarkable legacy continues to shape every project we deliver.
1983
Founded on a joint venture between Gary W. Fox, as President, and J.H. Findorff & Sons, Inc. as a silent shareholder, Building Systems General Corp. began as a pre-engineered commercial construction company.
1983
The first Woodman’s Food Market project was won. This started a partnership that is still strong today and includes building 22 new food markets, 40 gas stations, and many car washes.
1986
Gary became majority shareholder of Building Systems General Corp. and continued to expand doing more conventional construction.
1987
Gary’s son-in-law, James R. Arneson, began working at the firm as an Assistant Superintendent during the summer while finishing his degree in civil engineering from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
1988
The company continued to construct pre-engineered buildings and began expanding into more conventional precast and steel construction.
1990
Jim Arneson joined the firm full time as a Project Manager. Jim’s attention to detail, high standards, and summers spent as a Superintendent allowed him to rapidly progress within the company.
1995
Jim Arneson was named Vice President of Operations.
2007
Gary buys out Building Systems General Corp. from J.H. Findorff & Son. Jim and Carrie Arneson become minority shareholders.
2008
The business continued to grow by taking on projects across different markets including schools, municipal projects and office buildings.
2017
Jim Arneson was elected President following the retirement of Gary Fox, who became chairman. That same year, the name was officially changed to FoxArneson, Inc.
2020
Jim’s son, Thomas R. Arneson joined the family business full time after graduating with a Civil Engineering degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He started as a laborer and worked through the ranks as a Superintendent running work in Wisconsin and Illinois settling as a Project Manager.
2025
Tom was promoted to Vice President of Operations and leads all construction activities. Additionally, Philip Weightman was name Vice President of Design and leads all design work for the firm.
