While HKC Construction began as a modest endeavour in 2010—collaborating on remodeling projects with property management firms—in the years since, it has established a solid reputation due to founders Helen and Kosta Mentis’ dedication to excellence, resulting in a growing portfolio and many referrals. Indeed, by 2018, HKC Construction had grown considerably, setting up shop in Mississauga, Ontario before developing into a nationwide business that caters to numerous diverse segments of the construction market.
These days, HKC Construction focuses on design-build, construction management, and general contracting, with experience in the institutional, commercial, industrial, and residential domains.
Being a 50-percent female-owned company, HKC Construction also places a high importance on equality of opportunity and diversity, which forms the basis of its business practices, while constantly striving to surpass its clients’ expectations and remaining committed to providing outstanding quality in every assignment. Additionally, its client-focused strategy guarantees that every project not only satisfies but exceeds contemporary building standards, reflecting the changing demands of the industries it serves.
“HKC Construction started with a simple yet ambitious vision: to provide exceptional quality and customer service in the construction industry,” says Helen Mentis, Executive Vice President. “My husband, Kosta, and I founded the company in 2010 after realizing we wanted to chart our own course. Kosta was already deeply rooted in the trades, and I came from a teaching background, so we combined our strengths to build something meaningful.”
The company began as a small renovation business, serving property management firms and focusing on delivering quality work and building strong client relationships. From those humble beginnings, the team’s dedication led to rapid expansion, resulting in the opening of its first office in 2018, a significant step in the journey toward becoming the company it is today.
To provide smooth integration of design and construction services, HKC works closely with its clients, assembling a top-tier team of professionals committed to servicing customers and project stakeholders through direct partnerships with vetted and trusted consultants. Safeguarding the crucial “Iron Triangle” of scope, timing, and budget, the company’s distinct approach places a premium on accountability and speed, simplifying the process for clients by offering a completely integrated solution.
HKC also guarantees that clients receive full support from its team of experts from the start of the project to its conclusion, all through a single point of contact.
With its extensive general contracting services, HKC Construction is leading the industry in its commitment to cost reduction, timeliness, and the inclusion of crucial safety precautions. Dedicated to delivering the greatest return on investment for each project as a commercial construction company that prioritizes quality, HKC ensures there is highly qualified personnel on site to plan and carry out daily duties with precision and to smoothly incorporate safety procedures into all operations. With the assistance of skilled site supervisors, engineers, and certified subcontractors, each project is overseen by a committed project manager who makes sure that quality, efficiency, and safety are harmoniously combined in every undertaking. This all results in HKC Construction making top quality a standard rather than merely a goal.
Continuing to maintain that level of sustainability is another area of importance, with several of the company’s projects of note exemplifying a commitment to both environmentalism and expert craftsmanship.
“Sustainability has become a core focus for HKC Construction,” says Mentis. “We are actively working toward implementing an Environmental Management Plan that emphasizes the use of environmentally friendly materials, reducing waste, and adopting practices that lessen our environmental impact.”
Some examples include sourcing sustainable building materials and improving its waste diversion strategies to ensure minimal landfill contributions. While prioritizing these changes, HKC remains committed to maintaining the same high level of quality and craftsmanship that its clients have come to expect.
“It’s not just about building for today — it’s about building a future that aligns with our responsibility to the planet,” Mentis emphasizes.
Over the years, the company has also worked to develop a wide spectrum of capabilities that allows it to serve a diverse selection of clients and sectors. “One of the things we’re most proud of is our ability to adapt and grow to meet diverse client needs. We work across multiple sectors, from retail and hospitality to institutional spaces and industrial projects.”
The team has thus built a skilled and knowledgeable team with expertise in diverse areas, allowing the firm to handle everything from small refreshes to large-scale builds. “This adaptability has been key to our success and our ability to build long-term client relationships,” Mentis adds.
Being a woman-owned company in a male-dominated industry—while bringing its own challenges and rewards—is another essential point of pride for the company. “When we started HKC Construction, I knew we were stepping into a space where women were underrepresented,” Mentis says. “That only fueled my determination to lead by example.”
Leading by example includes fostering an inclusive and supportive work environment and celebrating the diversity of perspectives that the team brings, she adds. “We are proud to have a 45 percent female workforce in our office, with women holding key management roles,” she says. “As a woman-owned business, we’re proud to show that leadership and success in construction are not limited by gender. I hope our story inspires other women to pursue leadership roles in industries where they are traditionally underrepresented.”
Like many businesses, the pandemic was a defining moment for HKC Construction, bringing with it disruptions and uncertainties including project delays and operational challenges. But it also forced the company to rethink how it operates, from implementing new safety protocols to streamlining processes.
“We’ve come out stronger and more agile,” Mentis says. “During this period, we were also recognized by The Globe and Mail as one of Canada’s Top Fastest Growing Companies for 2021, 2023, and 2024, which was an incredible achievement for our team.”
In addition, the company has been certified as a “Great Place to Work,” highlighting its dedication to creating a positive and supportive work environment.
“Another great accomplishment we’re proud of is achieving COR certification,” adds Mentis. “This not only underscores our commitment to safety and quality but also positions us as a trusted partner for larger-scale projects.”
Looking ahead, HKC Construction’s goal is to achieve substantial growth while staying true to the core values that built its foundation. “We are focusing heavily on innovation by integrating AI and data-driven solutions across our departments,” shares Mentis. “This includes utilizing advanced technologies in estimating, project management, and operations to improve efficiency, accuracy, and client satisfaction.” Additionally, the company aims to leverage these tools to better analyze market trends, optimize resource allocation, and deliver high-quality outcomes consistently.
The firm is also committed to leading the industry in sustainable construction practices. “We will try and focus on using eco-friendly materials and reducing waste across all projects,” says Mentis. “These milestones reflect our vision to not only grow as a company but to set new standards for innovation, sustainability, and quality in the construction industry.”
While there are many vital factors that help set HKC Construction apart from its competitors, Mentis stresses that it is the company’s people and culture that are its true defining features. “At HKC, every team member is treated with respect and recognized as a vital contributor to our success. We’ve cultivated a work environment where everyone feels valued,” she says.
“We’re always looking for ways to push the industry forward as we continue to adapt to client needs and consistently strive to deliver high-quality results to stand out in a competitive field. We don’t just build structures; we build trust and long-term partnerships.”
