Company History
Leading Arizona in Design-Build Construction Since 1973.
Sun State Builders is a leading Arizona general contractor that built its reputation of excellence by delivering exceptional value through design-build creativity. We are a team of seasoned professionals proud of our more than 50-year history of success. With rigorous honesty and unwavering service, our purpose is to improve the lives of those we touch by building responsible, functional, and pleasing environments.
From design conception to subcontractor selection, scheduling, project execution, and occupancy, Sun State Builders manages every phase with expertise. We leverage technology, industry-leading project controls and meticulous budget management to ensure the successful completion of projects regardless of type, size, or complexity. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our ongoing training of field operations staff, ensuring that each project meets the highest quality and safety standards.
Our diverse project portfolio showcases our capability in all facets of commercial construction. From state-of-the-art manufacturing and distribution centers to Class A office parks, retail centers and more, Sun State Builders continues to make its mark to improve Arizona’s built environment.
Sun State Builders was founded in 1973 by Jim Chamberlain. Jim followed in the footsteps of two generations before him and drew on his experience in finance and construction to launch and successfully lead the company for 50 years. Under Jim’s leadership, Sun State Builders grew to become a leading Arizona general construction company with a team of more than 60 employees and a portfolio of commercial and residential projects throughout Arizona. Projects include ground-up builds in office, retail, industrial, hospitality and multifamily development, along with tenant improvement projects and renovations, ranging from 5,000 to 1,000,000 square feet.
In 2020, after 46 years in business, Jim expanded the company’s ownership, adding three longtime employees – Curt Johannson, Mike Forst and Andrea Piering – as partners. Curt joined Sun State as a superintendent in 1993 and rose up the ranks to senior project manager, then production manager and eventually vice president overseeing quality control. Mike joined the company more than 20 years prior as finance and development manager. Andrea Piering was hired in 1998, learning the business and gaining expertise in project management overseeing more than $250 million in construction.
In January 2024, Curt Johannson formally retired and Jim Chamberlain stepped down from his position as CEO. Jim continues to serve as an active advisor to the company in development, while Mike Forst takes the reins as CEO and Andrea Piering is president. Mike and Andrea share a vision for building on Sun State Builders’ strong foundation and moving the company forward with innovation and growth.
