A company known for “precision, innovation, and expertise” needs a construction partner who upholds the same values, a team that will advocate for their best interests. Sheridan Mold & Engineering excels in precision injection molds, micro moldmaking, and liquid silicone rubber tooling. In business since 1978, this St. Francis, Wisconsin, manufacturing company sought to invest in a metal building addition to its facility. While they inquired with Ford Construction for a competitive bid, the Ford Team replied with the cost and an alternative option, a solution to leverage their existing structure.

“As we looked at the pricing for a metal building addition, which we complete for many of our clients, I asked if they had considered extending their existing building type,” describes Ford Sales & Project Manager Mike Ford. “I explained how we could continue the block exterior with wood trusses and an asphalt roof to perfectly match the existing structure.”

Sheridan Mold embraced the suggestion and approved the new direction for their 6,000-sq.-ft. addition. With each step in the process, Ford looked for ways to advocate for the client and expedite the process. He knew it was in their best interest to get ahead of Wisconsin’s unpredictable winter conditions.

Expediting the Process

The first step in expediting the process was establishing a realistic budget number. Due to Ford’s estimating expertise and access to existing plans, he was able to work with subcontractors to generate solid construction numbers while updating the plans for proper documentation. In less than a month, the necessary paperwork was ready for review.

Relationships matter in the architecture and construction industry, and the Ford Team works hard to maintain solid partnerships with the communities it serves. Respectful and responsive communications play a key role in relationship development.

With city approvals and surveying completed in record time, the sequencing of the construction start (just ahead of winter) resulted in a $23,000 project cost savings. “To erect the block wall during winter would have required the scaffolding area to be tented and heated, so due to the quick turnaround in planning, we avoided all of that coordination and cost. It was a close call, but a big win for the project. We beat the frost by a few days.”

Navigating Challenges

Every construction project presents a few challenges, and some more than others. Working with a team ready to problem-solve and help clients make informed decisions makes all the difference. Ford Construction thrives in the tough moments.

From soil conditions to city requirements, Ford has advised Sheridan Mold through their unique site circumstances. While bad soil can shut a job down for months, Ford’s approach addressed the issues at hand while minimizing delays. The soil correction resulted in a two-day operation. Furthermore, Ford advocated for the client with the City of St. Francis by applying for a variance to address curb and gutter requirements and dumpster location codes. Ford’s well-communicated argument and alternative plans received approval. Not only did this variance save Sheridan Mold time and money, but it also supports ease of operations post-construction.

Another project savings reinforces the importance of expertise and timing. An interesting fact about the existing construction, a block building with foam-injected insulation, is that it is one of the last buildings of its kind. In fact, this construction method was days away from falling short of a pending energy code change. Efficient planning and project scheduling met the current codes, allowing construction to proceed with the existing insulation method, which saved approximately $40,000+.

Advocacy Continues

The Sheridan Mold addition is a project in progress, with the team awaiting the delivery of 50-foot-long trusses. Ford credits the team’s knowledge and experience, quick reactions, solid relationships, and a little luck for the project savings and success so far. He looks forward to the continued progress toward completion in 2026 and highlights the importance of his role to be a voice of reason who can maintain a sense of calm when construction presents a touch of chaos.

“When clients are experiencing the high stress of construction moments, I want them to know that it will be okay. We’re going to get them through it. They are in good hands. I want them to feel confident our team can manage the challenges with skill and timeliness.”

Stay tuned for more updates on the Sheridan Mold & Engineering addition.

Visit the Ford Portfolio to learn more about the team’s client advocacy and unique projects.