As we continue our 90th anniversary celebration decade by decade and look at our history, we turn our attention to the 1970s, a period marked by expansion, diversification, and important organizational transitions.
The early 1970s represented a significant chapter of physical and operational growth. In 1972, the company made a major investment in its future by purchasing a new facility on North Ravenswood Avenue in Chicago, a building more than three times the size of the previous headquarters at 1801 North Paulina Street. With expanded shop and office space and additional surrounding property, both L.C. Kohlman, Inc. and Federal Ventilating Company gained the room and flexibility needed to pursue larger projects and new opportunities across the region. This move reflected confidence in the company’s long term vision and continued growth.
Throughout the decade, the corporate philosophy established under James B. Hill remained central to the organization’s success. The firm stayed committed to hiring good people and retaining only the very best, while continuing to refine systems that fairly compensated project engineers, managers, and foremen based on productivity. This disciplined, performance driven approach reinforced accountability, craftsmanship, and professional development, supporting steady and sustainable growth.
The 1970s also brought meaningful expansion in services and capabilities. A piping prefabrication shop was established, strengthening coordination between engineering, fabrication, and field operations while improving efficiency and quality. In 1975, L.C. Kohlman, Inc. formally announced the establishment of its plumbing group, further diversifying services and enhancing the company’s ability to deliver integrated mechanical solutions for complex projects.
This growth was reflected in the company’s expanding client base. During the decade, work was performed for notable organizations including Kraft Foods, Coca Cola Syrup Plant, Wyler Foods, Brach Candy, Xerox, Bliss and Laughlin Steel, and A.M. Castle. These projects underscored the firm’s growing reputation as a trusted mechanical, sheet metal, and plumbing contractor within industrial and manufacturing environments.
The 1970s also marked a profound moment in the company’s history. In 1977, Louis C. Kohlman, the company’s founder, passed away. His vision, innovation, and leadership laid the foundation for everything that followed, and his legacy continued through the people, culture, and values that remained at the core of the organization.
By the end of the decade, L.C. Kohlman, Inc. had strengthened its physical footprint, expanded its service capabilities, and reinforced a culture centered on people, performance, and thoughtful growth. The progress and transitions of the 1970s positioned the company for continued expansion and new opportunities in the decades ahead.
Next month, we’ll continue our journey with a look back at the milestones that shaped our company in the 1980s.