Jeff Cook serves as Co-Founder and CEO of ARCO Construction Company, a leading design-build firm that streamlines complex projects for clients across the U.S. Partnering with Dick Arnoldy, he has built ARCO into a top national player, making construction faster and more reliable for businesses in retail, industrial, and commercial spaces.
Early Background
Jeff Cook grew up with a strong work ethic, starting young by painting houses, cutting lawns, and sealing driveways with friends during high school and college. After earning a master’s in Engineering Management, he worked as a project engineer for the State Highway Department on major infrastructure like the Innerbelt (I-170), gaining real-world skills in managing budgets and timelines.
In the early 1990s, he joined R.W. Murray Co., a construction firm, where he quickly rose by showing bold ambition. He even told his boss he wanted his job in seven years, a move that earned respect for his energy and drive. On July 27, 1992, Jeff partnered with Dick Arnoldy to launch ARCO in St. Louis, Missouri, leaving behind a stable role to build something new.
Leadership Style
Jeff leads with enthusiasm and a focus on people, fostering a culture where employees feel like owners. He values clear communication and motivation, often drawing from his own experiences of long hours and bold risks to inspire his team. His style emphasizes education and growth; he believes in continuous learning, much like his own path of pursuing advanced degrees while working.
At ARCO, he promotes a collaborative environment that cuts red tape, using design-build methods to align teams early and avoid costly changes. Jeff mentors emerging leaders, sharing stories from his career to build confidence and aspiration, much like the guidance he received early on. This approachable, high-energy leadership keeps projects moving smoothly.
Key Achievements
Under Jeff’s guidance since 1992, ARCO has grown into the 7th Top Design-Build General Contractor in the Nation, according to Engineering News-Record (ENR). The company now handles high-profile projects nationwide, from warehouses to retail centers, delivering them on time and under budget.
His practical innovations have made construction more efficient, significantly reducing delays through integrated design and building phases. ARCO’s success stems from Jeff’s focus on client needs, turning complex builds into predictable processes that save time and money. These wins have earned the firm repeat business, industry recognition, and growth from one office to over 30 locations with multi-billion-dollar revenue.
Personal Approach and Future Plans
Jeff approaches business with warmth and optimism, treating colleagues like family while staying grounded in hard work. He balances ambition with humility, often crediting team efforts over his own spotlight. Outside work, he stays connected to community roots, reflecting the small-business hustle that shaped him.
Looking ahead, Jeff plans to continue ARCO’s innovation in efficient, client-focused builds, adapting to industry shifts while mentoring the next generation. His vision keeps the company practical and forward-thinking, ensuring it remains a go-to for streamlined construction.
