Megan MacLaughlin-Barck – Larson Construction

When Megan MacLaughlin-Barck first took over her family business 20 years ago, it was a small, two-crew company specializing in bridges.

Over the last two decades, Larson Construction has grown into a seven-crew operation with the ability to build highway structures of all kinds. MacLaughlin-Barck has been the driver behind that growth for the third-generation ownership team.

She has achieved a family-oriented, small-business environment while expanding the size of the company, maintaining a personal connection with all employees. One of the things that MacLaughlin-Barck enjoys most about her job is the satisfaction that comes with providing critical infrastructure throughout the state.

“Whether providing new structures or performing structure repairs for the department of transportation, counties or other municipalities, knowing that the work we are doing allows for commerce to continue throughout the state is extremely rewarding,” she said.

As owner and president of the company, MacLaughlin-Barck continuously creates a caring yet respectful work environment for all employees. She also embraces inexperienced workers who have a strong work ethic, taking them under her wing. She has created new job positions for younger workers, including administrative internships.

Even though the pandemic has ended, supply-chain issues and labor shortages remain a challenge in the industry.

“As a result, the company remains committed to growth through apprenticeship, encouraging all employees to share knowledge and experience with apprentices so that we provide a skilled labor force for the future,” MacLaughlin-Barck said. “The pandemic provided challenges like none other. Initially, there was fear, confusion and concern, and the company quickly developed a weekly newsletter for employees and increased hygiene and PPE requirements.”

Outside of work, MacLaughlin-Barck enjoys traveling, reading, biking, swimming, boating and baking.

“I also enjoy supporting the music program at Chippewa Falls Senior High School, both through raising money for the Greenhalgh Memorial Music Endowment and direct support of the students involved in the program,” MacLaughlin-Barck added.