BOSTON— Kaplan Construction is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, marking five decades of steady expansion from its Brookline roots into a prominent general contractor and construction management firm serving projects across Massachusetts.
Founded in 1976 by Ken Kaplan, the company began with modest tools and a small local project for a neighborhood cheese shop—partially paid in cheese. In its early years, the business operated with a hands-on, family-driven approach, often run from kitchen tables as much as construction sites, a culture that continues to define the firm today.
Kaplan grew alongside Boston’s broader revitalization, building a reputation for high-quality construction and adaptability. Early projects such as the Henderson Carriage Building in Cambridge and the Exeter Street Theatre in Boston helped establish the firm’s expertise in historic rehabilitation and adaptive reuse. Over time, the company expanded beyond its initial focus on multifamily and commercial work to include institutional, academic, healthcare, life science and residential projects.
The firm’s long-term success has been shaped by a deliberate approach to growth and a strong emphasis on employee retention. During economic downturns, Kaplan prioritized keeping its workforce intact, even as employees adjusted schedules and compensation. That approach has contributed to a culture of longevity, with many team members remaining at the company for decades.
“From the beginning, our focus has been on doing right by our clients and our people,” said Nathan Peck, now president of the firm. “That shows up in the work itself—how a detail is handled in the field, how problems are solved, and how our teams take ownership of what’s being built.”
A major transition came in 2014, when Ken Kaplan and Cathy Kaplan passed leadership to the next generation. Today, the firm is led by Peck and Chief Operating Officer Jane Kaplan Peck, both of whom brought outside experience before returning to guide the company. Under their leadership, Kaplan has integrated new technologies and modernized project management processes to improve efficiency and communication.
The company has also expanded its workforce and leadership diversity. After hiring its first female project manager in 2013, Kaplan has grown its project management team to six, with women now making up the majority of those roles.
Over the years, Kaplan has earned numerous industry accolades, including recognition from the Boston Business Journal as a Fastest Growing Company and Best Place to Work. The firm has also been honored by organizations such as Preservation Massachusetts, the Boston Preservation Alliance, and the Boston Society of Architects for its project work.
Despite its growth, Kaplan remains rooted in Brookline, where it was originally founded. The company continues to contribute to the local community through projects such as the Brookline Teen Center, Congregation Kehillath Israel and Trust Early Learners, as well as through ongoing charitable support and partnerships with local nonprofits.
“As we reach this milestone, what stands out most is the strength of the relationships that have carried us through 50 years,” said Jane Kaplan Peck. “We’ve grown significantly, but the core of who we are hasn’t changed.”
