Bob Berns went to Southern Illinois University, and obtained a Bachelor of Science Degree in Education. Upon graduation and working in the teaching field, he ended up looking for a change. Making a drastic one, he started working in commercial construction in Alaska throughout the 1970’s, where he learned the ins and outs of the business. In 1981, he moved back to Illinois to take over the helm at Berns Concrete from his father. After owning and operating the ready-mix and block manufacturing business, while also operating Berns Construction, Bob decided to sell the businesses. In 1998 he joined Johnco Construction and took over ownership of the firm in 2012.

Bob is very involved in all company operations, ensuring each project is delivered on time and budget. He enjoys working, but he also loves to spend time with his family including 15 grandchildren that keep him busy.

Paul Berns, one of Bob’s sons, earned a Master of Business Administration degree from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign along with a Bachelor of Science in Construction Management from the School of Engineering at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. Paul worked several internships throughout college and gained large, multi-million-dollar project experience on airport terminal additions in Dallas, TX and Baltimore, MD working as a Field Engineer. His junior year, he took a position as an assistant superintendent on the $365 million new Busch Stadium, home of the St. Louis Cardinals, including demolition of Busch Stadium II. He eventually grew into a Project Superintendent position and upon graduation, moved to New York for three years and managed construction at Citi Field, the $800 million home of the New York Mets. Finally, he ended up back in the Midwest working on the Kansas City Royals $250 million stadium renovation.

Upon completion, Paul decided to join his father’s business where he began as a Union carpenter, then Project Manager/Estimator and was soon promoted to Vice President. Paul estimates with Bob, while being responsible for all company field operations and management. Most of all, Paul enjoys spending time with his wife and two sons.

Paul previously served as Vice President, an Executive Board Member, of Central Illinois Autism Association from March of 2019 to March of 2024. He is currently a Board Member of CIAA.

Years with Johnco: 15 Years