River Cities Engineering celebrates 20th anniversary and expansion

River Cities Engineering commemorated its 20th anniversary and expansion into a new building with a ribbon cutting on June 13. The new building provides the company with 10,000 additional square feet. Ten new jobs were created, with a total number of employees at 60.

The new location at 323 Research Parkway in Davenport, is the site of the former Humvee dealership. The move marks a significant milestone for River Cities - providing the company with ample space for its panel shop and room for a new training center.

Founded two decades ago, the company has steadily grown into a leader in electrical construction, electrical engineering, control panel design and fabrication. "Twenty years is a great milestone to hit," said Brad Natzke, President and Director of Operations for River Cities Engineering. "But it feels like we're just getting warmed up. We've got a lot of positive energy and momentum right now, and I am excited to see the great things our awesome employees are going to accomplish in the future."

According to Natzke, the company was "busting at the seams" prior to the move, and said they were limited in their ability to consider larger control panel fabrication projects. "Our new property has given us breathing room and synergy in our operations. Our control panel fabrication shop and warehouse areas have plenty of capacity for our current projects and more. As part of our strategic planning, we are going all-in on learning and development. We believe that a highly trained and effective workforce is our future."

Natzke remarked that the new facility has a training center and they've hired a new Learning and Development Manager who will be overseeing their training systems. "The property includes 6 acres, so we have plenty of land for future expansion. It’s intriguing how an old Hummer dealership property has given us the perfect fit for our current needs and beyond."    

The company's new location, right off of Interstate 80, has also been a plus for the business. "We’ve always been focused on our brand stewardship and the professionalism of our image.  The location of our new property could not have been better to support those initiatives," continued Natzke. 

Tom Loussaert, Vice President and Director of Engineering, agrees, "The exposure and recognition have been remarkable. We have a very targeted market (industrial and manufacturing sectors), so we don’t rely on foot traffic. However, the prominence of our facility has already had a positive impact on other business objectives such as recruiting, employee pride and morale as well as name recognition."  

Both Natzke and Loussaert said they have appreciated their partnership with the Chamber. "The Quad Cities Chamber has been an invaluable partner for River Cities Engineering and we plan to expand and strengthen that relationship," said Loussaert. "The Chamber’s market insight and business support aligns perfectly with our needs. Whether it be Manufacturing Hub Huddles, various workshops, recruiting mechanisms or networking events, the Chamber provides the connectivity and expertise to elevate our growth."