OUR STORY

1989

Ken Johnson joined Clarion in 1990 as the company’s first field staff member, a carpenter and superintendent, bringing a client-first approach that balanced company and project needs. As Clarion grew, so did his role; from hands-on fieldwork to building strong relationships with clients, subcontractors, and employees, all while elevating professionalism and expertise. Ken’s leadership has been instrumental in shaping Clarion’s operational standards, particularly in superintendent training, project communication, and client satisfaction. The foundational principles he helped establish decades ago, are still at the core of Clarion's ethos. He now leads his teams as Clarion's Executive Vice President.

Phil Martorano joined Clarion in 1990, beginning in estimating and supporting both office and field operations, bringing a detail-oriented approach that balanced operational and financial needs. As projects grew more complex, his role expanded into project management and project accounting, deepening his expertise in both jobsite execution and financial performance. Recognizing the importance of precision, Phil implemented Clarion’s accounting systems and technology infrastructure, modernizing operations and embedding accuracy into company processes. His leadership has been instrumental in shaping Clarion’s financial and operational standards, from budget oversight and contract management to IT and accounting systems. The principles he established decades ago remain central to Clarion’s disciplined, accountable approach. He now serves as the company's Vice President and Chief Financial Officer.

Ken Johnson expanded Clarion’s capabilities by launching the Service Division to meet growing client needs for ongoing support and maintenance. Leveraging his field experience and deep understanding of client priorities, he built a dedicated team delivering high-quality service across concrete, carpentry, glass and board-up, paving, HVAC, and roofing among many others. Today, the Service Division ensures clients receive timely support, preventative maintenance, and long-term value, strengthening Clarion’s reputation for comprehensive, client-focused solutions.

Sean Griffin joined Clarion in 2016 as an Assistant Estimator and Project Engineer, quickly expanding his role and responsibilities. Promoted to Project Executive in 2021, he developed the methods, processes, and techniques that continue to guide how Clarion handles estimates, coordinates with vendors, and trains new staff. During his ten years with Clarion, Sean has shaped project management procedures, defined team roles, and continues to mentor project managers, leaving a lasting impact on Clarion’s operations and team environment.

1998

2010

2021

NOW

Clarion Construction was established in 1989 as the construction division of Clarion Development, originally created to support residential remodeling tied to home sales. When delays in that strategy limited opportunity, Vince Martorano identified a stronger need in the commercial and industrial renovation market and quickly pivoted the company’s focus. Early partnerships with Quantum Properties, Cohen Financial, and Cumberland Metro Office Park validated the shift and provided the first steady pipeline of repeat work. After acquiring the company, Vince strengthened operations, invested in an in-house workforce, and built a disciplined, hands-on approach to execution that drove accountability and performance, leading Clarion to profitability within its second year. Rather than relying solely on subcontractors, he assembled a team alongside Ken Johnson to self-perform critical scopes and elevate quality control, client service, and clear communication. Guided by a commitment to craftsmanship and doing the work with integrity, Vince established the foundation for the specialty general contractor model that continues to define Clarion today.

1990

Tim Sinclair and Michelle Martorano joined Clarion Construction on the same day, each shaping essential operational systems. Tim refined Clarion’s approach to project costing by transitioning estimating from QuickBid to Sage and creating flexible assemblies that continue to guide project planning and pricing today, supporting the company’s adaptability and reputation for reliability and expertise. Michelle joined as an Administrative Assistant and evolved into a leader in HR and internal operations, modernizing time tracking, streamlining onboarding, and implementing systems that improved efficiency and consistency. She also launched peer mentoring, employee recognition platforms, engagement initiatives, and a centralized company portal—strengthening communication, culture, and support for field and office teams.

2007

Greg Settanni has been connected to Clarion for over 30 years, including 20 years as an expert glass subcontractor prior to officially joining the company in 2010 as head of the Glass Division. Greg's role expanded in 2012, when he began overseeing the Service Division, as well. He continues to grow the team and fleet while implementing systems like a rotating on-call carpenter schedule. By bringing glass work in-house and streamlining service operations, he has shaped Clarion's ability to deliver craftsmanship and support today.

2016

Tony Martorano joined Clarion in July 2021, and his responsibilities quickly expanded as he took on a leadership role. As Director of Operations, Tony focused on internal systems and mentoring team members, helping shift Clarion from a single point-of-contact model to a task-focused team structure. His emphasis on efficient processes and partnership-driven communication has strengthened Clarion’s growth and scalability.

Over the decades, Clarion has maintained a reputation for excellence, integrity, and professionalism. The company’s growth has been driven predominantly by client referrals, reflecting long-term relationships built on trust. Many employees have dedicated decades of service, reinforcing Clarion’s culture of stability and ethical leadership. Today, Clarion Construction operates as an industry-defining Specialty General Contractor serving the Chicagoland area, combining the full capabilities of a traditional general contractor with in-house specialty trades, a dedicated service division, and diagnostic insight. Leveraging deep expertise in concrete, carpentry, finishes, and glazing, the company delivers technically precise, problem-solving project execution guided by core values of integrity, high performance, partnership, safety, and shared success.