Three Projects Awarded Excellence in Construction

Rice Companies is thrilled to announce that three of our 2025 project were honored at the Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) of Minnesota and North Dakota’s annual Excellence in Construction banquet. We are grateful to our clients who have partnered with us and trust us to build their facilities – these awards are also their awards.

These awards celebrate the best in the industry, recognizing projects that demonstrate outstanding innovation, quality, and craftsmanship. Congratulations to our dedicated teams and partners who made these projects a success!

AWARD WINNING PROJECTS:

Pyramid Award – Institutional Category
MSU-M | Moorhead, MN
The MSU Moorhead Alumni Center is a 16,000-square-foot facility constructed with a conventional structural steel frame and masonry system. The building features face brick, metal panels, curtain wall glazing, and a built-up roof, creating a modern and durable exterior. Interior spaces include offices and flexible event areas, finished with high-quality materials to reflect the university’s identity. Built on a busy campus corner adjacent to occupied buildings, the project required precise scheduling and coordination.

Pyramid Award – Healthcare Category
Foundations Autism Center | Sartell, MN
The Foundations Autism Center in Sartell, MN, is a purpose-built facility designed to provide individualized therapy for children with autism. Completed in 2024, the center features a wood-frame structure with flexible layouts, sensory-friendly design elements, and secure access controls. The project includes therapy rooms, play areas, and administrative spaces. Innovative safety features and collaboration with behavioral health professionals ensured a calming, functional environment. The center now serves dozens of families, reflecting a successful blend of thoughtful design, construction excellence, and community impact.

Pyramid Award – Industrial Category
First District Association (FDA) | Litchfield, MN
The First District Association (FDA) Plant 9 expansion in Litchfield, MN, represents a significant investment in innovation and production capability for one of the Midwest’s leading dairy cooperatives. Rice Companies completed this project in December 2024. The project involved the demolition of the original receiving dock, rerouting underground infrastructure, and constructing a new ammonia compressor room, CIP room, and welfare room. The effort supports FDA’s mission to advance dairy processing while introducing cutting-edge technology to produce one of the first highly pure protein products of its kind.