Our History - Associated Construction Engineering

A Legacy of Community and Growth

Associated Construction Engineering has been proudly transforming communities since 1987 – evolving to meet the needs of our neighbors. And as our business has grown, so have we! Take a look back on the history of ACE.

1987

ACE Gets its Start

Tim Coleman and his three partners come together with one vision: a Montana-based engineering company that does it all. Soon after, Associated Construction Engineering is born – getting its start with offices in Belgrade and Billings.

1992

Making Moves

Keith Campbell moves to Billings to manage the office there. This same year, ACE broadens its reach, opening a new location in Missoula.

1995

Expanding Leadership

After 4 years with ACE, Keith Campbell becomes partner and Vice President.

2021

ACE introduces Associated Construction Management

Associated Construction Management (ACM) is formed to create alternative delivery methods combining design and construction into a turn-key solution. ACM is led and managed by Keith Campbell.

2008

We Say Goodbye

Tim Coleman retires after leading ACE for more than 21 years and Keith Campbell is named President.

2008

New Beginnings

With growth on the mind, ACE opens an office in Sheridan, WY – led by new Vice President and partner Monte Roma. Todd Meling and Kip Weeda also become partners and step into a Vice President role, managing the Billings and Belgrade offices, respectively.

2010-3013

Growth for Missoula

Jared Swartz moves to the Missoula office and later becomes Vice President and partner in 2013.

2019

We Introduce Virtual Services

Associated Virtual Design Construction (AVDC) is formed as a sister company of ACE – led by Christopher Rumph. ACE acquires Design 3 Engineering and Bob Scott opens ACE’s newest office in Helena, MT.

2020-2022

New Voices Join the Table

Senior Associates Brodie Karabensh, Robert Detimore, Patrick Knoll, Christopher Rumph, and Darla Strand join the management team of ACE (2020). Ethan Haug, Aaron Sadowski, and Ryan Gramm are named Associates (2022).

2023

ACE Continues to Grow

As we look toward the future, both our reach and team continue to expand:

» We launch an office in Kalispell.
» Nick Tolstedt and Logan Grimstad are named Associates.
» Brodie Karabensh becomes Missoula Office Manager.
» Ryan Gramm becomes Helena Office Manager.
» Aaron Sadowski becomes Kalispell Office Manager.
» Patrick Knoll is named Director of Electrical Engineering.

2025

A Visionary Leader

After 17 years serving as President Keith Campbell assumes the role of Chief Executive Officer at ACE and Jared Swartz is named President – leading ACE into its next decade.

2025

New Associate Principals

Brodie Karabensh, Robert Detimore, Patrick Knoll, Christopher Rumph, and Darla Strand are named Associate Principals. Darin van Oosterhout becomes ACE’s latest addition to the management team as an Associate Engineer.

2025 and Beyond

ACE now staffs six office locations with nearly 50 design professionals. A decade-long succession plan is in place with a dozen well trained professionals ready to the lead the firm for years to come.