Atkinson Construction's story began with Burke Atkinson's deep-rooted connection to the construction industry.
Growing up in a family business that had been active since 1976, construction was always part of his life, from discussions around the kitchen table to early experiences on job sites. Burke was immersed in the world of building from a young age, and those formative years shaped the values and vision that would later drive Atkinson Construction.
Despite his early involvement, Burke explored different paths as a young professional before committing fully to construction. He worked in maintenance at retirement homes and even dealt blackjack at River Cree Casino. However, the pull of construction remained strong. He attended NAIT, where he learned skills that contributed directly to the family business, such as modernizing their approach to proposals by using 3D modeling. His role grew over the years, eventually becoming a partner in the family company by 2015.
To build a company that carried forward his passion for construction, rooted in integrity, quality craftsmanship, and community.
In 2019, amid complex family dynamics, Burke decided to create something new—Atkinson Construction. He wanted to build a company that carried forward his passion for construction, rooted in integrity, quality craftsmanship, and community. Starting from scratch, Atkinson Construction operated out of Burke's home office, using tools from his garage and relying on a small but determined team. The company faced its first major challenge with the onset of COVID-19, but instead of slowing down, Burke and his team chose to "run through" the pandemic, which led to rapid growth as others hesitated.
The first major milestone for Atkinson Construction was securing the Calmar Public Works project, a foundational win that helped the company build credibility. This success was followed by several high-profile projects, including the Grande Prairie Activity & Reception Center, the Equine Center in Edmonton and the stunning Anohka Distillery known for its global-award winning whisky. These projects demonstrated Atkinson's ability to deliver high-quality work on culturally significant and large-scale commercial projects. The team also took on RCMP detachments and other community-focused buildings, solidifying their presence in the industry.
"It’s about creating spaces that matter to the community."
Atkinson Construction's journey has been defined by persistence, navigating challenges, and building genuine relationships. The company’s impact goes beyond construction—it’s about creating spaces that matter to the community, from municipal public works to cultural centers. Burke and his team believe in giving back through their work, and this dedication is evident in every project they undertake.
Looking ahead, Atkinson Construction envisions continued growth, focusing on larger-scale community projects, mixed-market housing, and sustainable, thoughtfully designed spaces. The company aims to be recognized not only for the quality of their work but also for how they enhance the quality of life for those who use the spaces they build. Atkinson Construction is committed to building a legacy of integrity, craftsmanship, and community impact—one project at a time.