BR&E Spotlight: Conant Construction Building the Future of Western Kansas
As part of our Business Retention & Expansion (BR&E) outreach, the Development Corporation recently visited Conant Construction, a trusted name in general contracting that has been proudly serving the region for 25 years. Located on US Highway 50 just west of Dodge City, Conant Construction is known for its high-quality work across commercial, residential, and agricultural sectors, including specialized feedyard construction. Led by Quentin Conant, the company has built a reputation for attention to detail, reliability, and long-standing customer relationships across Western Kansas.
From residential remodels to major commercial builds and feedyard expansions, Conant Construction brings versatile experience and craftsmanship to every job. Their most profitable projects come from the agricultural sector, particularly feedyard construction. Over 50% of their residential work comes from repeat customers, reflecting strong loyalty and trust built over the years.
They primarily serve clients from southwest Kansas and have recently completed a significant business expansion. Their next goal is to construct a 12,000 sq. ft. warehouse and fabrication facility, which will centralize storage and streamline internal operations. This expansion highlights their forward-looking approach to scaling efficiently while maintaining quality control.
Like many regional contractors, Conant Construction faces workforce recruitment challenges, particularly in finding skilled carpenters and project managers. They are always on the lookout for high-caliber talent but note that attracting workers to southwest Kansas can be difficult. While they actively work with subcontractors, finding the “right next person” remains a top priority.
Broadband improvements, childcare access, and healthcare were all cited as areas needing attention to improve employee quality of life. Despite these challenges, the company praised city permitting processes and community support.
Quentin Conant highlighted the growth in commercial and agricultural sectors, noting that feedyards and dairies are expanding, creating strong demand for experienced construction partners. However, supply chain uncertainties, particularly with steel prices and tariff impacts, continue to affect project timelines and client decisions.
The company is well-positioned to lead in emerging trends like water reclamation infrastructure for feedyards and dairies, having just completed a major project in this area. They also emphasized the value of local workforce training partnerships with REWA and Dodge City Community College.
Conant Construction’s BR&E visit underscores the importance of supporting our local builders. Not only do they provide jobs and expertise, they help shape the physical landscape of our community. From economic growth to infrastructure development, firms like Conant are essential partners in building a stronger Ford County.
We thank Quentin and the Conant Construction team for their time and candor, not only during the BR&E visit but all the various boards Quentin and his staff serve. Quentin is an active member on the Dodge Cit/Ford County Development Corporation as well as the Rural Education and Workforce Alliance. Their insights will help guide future investments in workforce training, infrastructure, and local supplier support.
Media Contact:
Mollea Lightner
Assistant Director, Dodge City/Ford County Development Corporation
molleaw@dodgedev.org | 620-227-9501