Omni Commercial Group Joins Crain’s Top 25 WBEs List
September 18, 2025
The year 2025 marks a significant achievement for Omni Commercial Group, as they have been honored by Crain’s Chicago Business as one of the Top 25 Women-Owned Businesses in the Chicago Area. This recognition is not just a ranking but a reflection of the dedication, collaboration, and vision that has fueled nearly four decades of hard work and trusted partnerships at Omni.
History Rooted in Service and Growth
The company's origins trace back to 1985 when founder Kevin Chwala entered the construction industry focusing on facility maintenance. Kevin's emphasis on listening to clients, understanding their needs, and responding with reliable action set the groundwork for Omni Commercial Group's growth. Over time, the company expanded its services, evolving into a network of firms that share a commitment to client-centric solutions.
Today, Omni Commercial Group, a woman-owned, union-affiliated, and family-run business, serves diverse industries in Chicagoland, boasting a team of experienced project managers and specialists dedicated to delivering consistent quality. The company's enduring relationships are built on trust and expertise, reassuring clients of reliable results.
The Power of Partnerships
Being recognized as a Top 25 Women-Owned Business not only acknowledges Omni's growth but also underscores the significance of partnerships in their success. The company values its collaborators as integral to maintaining high standards in safety, quality, and efficiency across projects.
The Omni Process: Build on Communication
Recognition as a top woman-owned business is also a testament to how we work. At Omni, we’ve developed a process designed to remove uncertainty from construction while creating a seamless client experience.
Our process begins with listening. Before a single blueprint is finalized or a demolition crew arrives on site, we take time to understand our clients’ goals, concerns, and vision. This foundation of communication ensures that our projects start strong.
From there, we move into planning, coordinating with stakeholders, reviewing site conditions, aligning schedules, and setting clear expectations. During execution, our project managers remain proactive, keeping clients informed and addressing challenges before they become obstacles. Finally, every project is closed with care, ensuring details are completed and clients are satisfied. It’s a process that reflects our values: clarity, accountability, and partnership. And it’s one of the reasons Omni has built long-standing relationships with some of Chicagoland’s most respected companies.
Why WBE Recognition Matters
Earning a spot on Crain’s list of the Top 25 Women-Owned Businesses in Chicago carries special significance. The construction industry has historically been male-dominated, and while progress has been made, women-owned businesses remain underrepresented in this space.
Omni’s recognition highlights the importance of diversity in leadership and the value of different perspectives in building stronger companies. For our clients, it means working with a business that not only delivers results but also reflects values of inclusivity, empowerment, and growth.
This recognition also reassures our clients that they are partnering with a company recognized for its scale, professionalism, and impact in the Chicago area. For those in commercial real estate, property management, or corporate development, choosing Omni means choosing a trusted, proven partner who has earned industry respect.
Building the Future Together
Recognition as a top woman-owned business signifies more than just achievement; it represents the importance of diversity in leadership and the added value of varied perspectives in fostering robust businesses. Clients partnering with Omni benefit not only from results but also from a business that champions inclusivity, empowerment, and progress.
Built on Excellence, Backed by Trust
Looking ahead, Omni is committed to advancing opportunities for women in construction, strengthening partnerships, embracing innovation, and creating spaces that meet evolving needs. This accolade from Crain’s Chicago Business serves as both a tribute to the past and a motivation for the future: to continue building with excellence, integrity, and foresight. Ready to start your next project? Contact us today.
Get ahead of the busy season with Omni Commercial Group’s guide to fall commercial construction planning. Learn how early scheduling ensures on-time, on-budget project success.
At Omni Commercial Group, we take great pride in the work we do—but there's something uniquely special about projects that take place right in our own backyard. In the summer of 2024, we had the privilege of partnering with Larkin High School in Elgin, Illinois, to revitalize one of the most important spaces in their building: the auditorium. This project wasn’t just about construction, it was about creating an environment that uplifts performance, accessibility, and experience for students, staff, and the greater Elgin community. A Complete Auditorium Transformation The renovation touched nearly every aspect of the auditorium. Our scope of work included: Brand-new auditorium seating Durable and attractive epoxy flooring Upgraded carpeting for comfort and aesthetics ADA-compliant access ramp to improve accessibility Modernized auditorium electrical systems Upgraded house lighting to improve visibility and efficiency New electronic theatrical lighting control systems A completely overhauled audio system with new controls and speaker arrays Installation of a new 25-foot video screen and projection equipment The project was completed in August 2024, just in time for a new school year and performance season. Real Results That Resonate We were honored to receive glowing feedback from Adam Baxter, Auditorium Manager at Larkin High School, after the system upgrades were put to the test during their musical production. His message underscores exactly why we do what we do. “We're running our musical this weekend and the vocals are loud and clear in a way we've never been able to hear when competing with a full pit orchestra,” Adam shared. “Threshold took my notes about the challenges and limitations of the room and gave us a design that was exactly what this space needed.” Adam went on to praise the improvements made to the seating, lighting, projection, and infrastructure—areas that had long needed attention. But it was the new audio system that made the biggest difference for their performances. “The old speaker system was good for meetings and music playback but trying to get performer vocal mics louder than a full pit orchestra, jazz band, or rock show was full of challenges,” he noted. “This new system has been plenty loud with headroom to spare.” He closed his remarks with appreciation not just for the outcome, but for the collaborative approach Omni took throughout the process. “I really appreciate being able to contribute in the process… Feel free to pass along thanks to Mark Carlson, Threshold, Omni, and anyone else involved.” Collaboration in Action One of the key reasons this project succeeded so well was the collaborative effort between the Larkin team, Threshold, and our crew at Omni. We believe construction is most effective when it's grounded in communication—when every stakeholder has a voice and every challenge is met with creative, technical solutions. We’re especially proud of how our team listened to and integrated feedback from those who know the space best—like Adam. His insights were crucial to creating a performance-ready environment that truly met the school’s unique needs. Building for Our Community As a union-affiliated , woman-owned business headquartered in Elgin, working on a project like this for Larkin High School holds personal meaning. It’s more than just a job—it’s an opportunity to invest in the future of our own community and create spaces that serve, inspire, and elevate. At Omni Commercial Group , we’re passionate about building better environments. Whether it’s an auditorium, office space, retail location, or public facility, our commitment to craftsmanship, safety, and communication remains at the heart of everything we do. Let’s Build What Matters—Together Have a community, commercial, or educational facility that needs a refresh ? We’re ready to bring your vision to life—just like we did for Larkin .
Summer is here—and with it comes the busiest construction season of the year. While warm weather offers ideal conditions for building, it also brings unique challenges that can disrupt schedules and drive up costs. At Omni Commercial Group, we understand how to navigate these summer hurdles to keep your project moving forward, on time and on budget. Here’s what you need to know about managing commercial construction during peak season—and how Omni’s expertise and proactive approach can help your project thrive. Why Summer Brings Unique Construction Challenges Summer might seem like the perfect time to build, but it also creates intense demand for labor, materials, and equipment. This surge often leads to labor shortages, as skilled crews are in high demand across multiple projects. Finding and securing experienced labor becomes much harder during the busy summer months, making early planning critical. Material delays are another common challenge. Suppliers often experience backlogs and longer lead times, slowing down delivery schedules and increasing costs. Even small delays in material shipments can have a cascading impact on project timelines, pushing schedules off course and leading to costly change orders. While summer weather is generally favorable, sudden storms and extreme heat can impact job sites and strain crews. High temperatures require careful scheduling and safety measures to protect workers and maintain productivity. Key Strategies to Keep Projects on Track The key to successful summer construction lies in proactive planning, strong relationships, and clear communication. Starting early with project planning and scheduling can make all the difference. Securing crews and establishing a realistic timeline before summer arrives helps avoid the scramble for resources once the season begins. At Omni, our decades of experience in the Chicagoland market allow us to anticipate these seasonal demands and plan accordingly. Material procurement should also happen as early as possible. Ordering materials ahead of time helps minimize the risk of delays and price fluctuations. At Omni, we leverage long-standing relationships with suppliers to ensure that materials arrive on time and at competitive costs, even during the busiest months. Communication is another critical factor. Our use of advanced project management tools like Procore, combined with our proven OmniCPM methodology, keeps all stakeholders aligned. From real-time updates on progress to swift issue resolution, these tools ensure that no detail is overlooked and that any potential problems are addressed before they can impact the schedule. Finally, safety and productivity go hand in hand, especially during the summer. High temperatures can push crews to their limits, so we prioritize safety training and hydration protocols, ensuring that everyone stays healthy and focused on quality work. How Omni Keeps Projects Moving Forward For nearly four decades, Omni Commercial Group has delivered projects during the peak summer construction season without missing a beat. Our team includes union-trained carpenters, laborers, and project managers who know how to navigate the challenges of summer construction while maintaining high standards for safety and quality. Our leadership team has deep experience handling the complexities of summer construction—balancing tight schedules, budget constraints, and changing site conditions. We tailor every project plan to meet client goals and ensure that no detail is overlooked. What sets Omni apart is our commitment to collaboration and communication. We work closely with owners, architects, and trade partners to maintain momentum and protect your investment. Whether it’s a small remodel or a large-scale expansion, we bring the same dedication to keeping your project on time and on budget, even during the busiest building season. Let’s Build Together This Summer If you’re planning a commercial construction project this summer, Omni Commercial Group is ready to partner with you. From early planning to final walkthrough, we’re committed to delivering results that exceed your expectations and minimize costly delays. Contact us today to learn more about how Omni can bring your summer project to life—on time, on budget, and with the quality you deserve.
At Omni Commercial Group, we believe that construction is more than assembling materials or meeting deadlines—it’s about building environments where people and businesses can thrive. For decades, we’ve earned a reputation for delivering high-quality commercial projects that stand the test of time. From retail developments to financial institutions, office buildouts to mixed-use spaces, our work reflects not just technical expertise, but a deep commitment to safety, sustainability, and client service. These core values aren’t just part of what we do—they’re who we are. A Legacy of Commercial Excellence Founded as a woman-owned, family-led business, Omni Commercial Group has become a trusted name in commercial construction. Our roots in the region give us a unique understanding of the local market, building codes, climate considerations, and most importantly, the expectations of our clients—many of whom manage high-value properties and portfolios that demand efficiency, quality, and professionalism. Over the years, we’ve completed a wide range of projects, from national retail brands to regional banks, healthcare facilities, and office spaces. We’ve worked in live environments, navigated tight schedules, and collaborated with multiple stakeholders—all while maintaining clear communication and delivering results that align with our clients’ strategic goals. Every job is approached with a mindset of ownership. We treat our clients’ spaces as if they were our own, knowing that the decisions we make today will affect how those spaces perform for years to come. Our reputation is built not just on what we build, but how we build it—with integrity, precision, and people-first values that have carried us through every phase of growth. Safety Is Our Standard—Not a Slogan Safety has always been—and will always be—a non-negotiable part of how we operate. In the construction industry, safety isn’t just a regulation—it’s a moral responsibility. Our team understands that every tool we use and every site we manage must be governed by a culture that puts people first. That’s why we maintain strict safety protocols, regular training sessions, and a proactive approach to identifying and mitigating risks. We don’t wait for issues to arise—we plan ahead, communicate clearly, and empower every team member, subcontractor, and site visitor to take responsibility for their surroundings. Our safety culture is visible from the moment you step onto any of our job sites. From protective gear and clear signage to routine inspections and site-wide accountability, we create environments where everyone feels supported and secure. “A moment of safety awareness can prevent a lifetime of regret.” This principle guides everything we do. It’s how we protect our workforce, reduce liability for our clients, and ensure the smooth progression of every project. We believe safety should never come at the expense of productivity—and when done right, it never does. In fact, our strong safety practices are one of the reasons clients trust us to deliver even the most complex builds on time and on budget. Sustainable Construction for a Smarter Future As builders, we have a responsibility not just to our clients and crews, but to our communities and the environment. At Omni Commercial Group, we integrate sustainability into our construction practices in a meaningful way—from pre-construction planning to final turnover. Sustainability is more than installing LED lights or choosing recycled materials (though those are important too). It’s about thoughtful planning, energy efficiency, and waste reduction at every step of the construction lifecycle. We work closely with suppliers and design teams to ensure that every decision—from HVAC systems to flooring—contributes to long-term performance and environmental responsibility. Our approach also includes minimizing site disruption, optimizing material use, and ensuring our methods align with evolving standards in green building and LEED-conscious construction. “Construction should leave a positive legacy—not just on people, but on the planet.” For our clients in commercial real estate and property management, sustainability isn’t just a preference—it’s increasingly a priority. Our team brings expertise, transparency, and innovation to help you meet your environmental goals without compromising cost or quality. Built on Relationships What truly sets Omni apart is our commitment to relationships. We view every project as a partnership and every client as a long-term collaborator. Whether you’re managing a national retail rollout or a local office renovation, we bring the same level of care, attention, and expertise. Our communication is clear and proactive. We understand the unique challenges that come with managing commercial spaces—tight timelines, complex logistics, multiple tenants, and demanding operational needs. Our goal is to make the process seamless, so you can focus on running your business while we take care of the build. As a woman-owned and family-led company, we value transparency, responsiveness, and service. These values aren’t just buzzwords—they’re lived out in every site meeting, phone call, and milestone we reach together. Ready to Build What’s Next At Omni Commercial Group, our history is rooted in building structures that last—and our future is focused on building relationships that thrive. As commercial property managers and real estate professionals look for reliable construction partners, we continue to deliver value, safety, and sustainability on every project. We’re not just here to build spaces—we’re here to support your success, long after the final inspection. Let’s build what’s next—together.
Spring brings more than blooming landscapes and longer days—it’s also the perfect time to breathe new life into your commercial property. Whether you're planning to modernize your interior, revamp common areas, or refresh the exterior look of your building, the season offers a rare combination of ideal conditions for smooth and successful project execution. At Omni Commercial Group, we understand the urgency and opportunity that spring brings. Backed by a decades-tested process and hundreds of completed projects, we help clients capitalize on the moment with renovations that are strategic, timely, and built for long-term success. Why Spring is the Smart Season for Renovation Construction and renovation projects can take place throughout the year, but spring stands out for its practicality and potential. The moderate weather conditions of May and June create an ideal environment for exterior improvements. Projects like painting, roofing, façade updates, and landscaping often face fewer delays, enabling faster turnarounds and smoother execution. The milder climate not only allows for consistent work schedules but also minimizes risks associated with weather-related damage or rework. Financially, this time of year also aligns well with corporate planning. Many organizations are either wrapping up Q1 or heading into mid-year budget reviews, making it easier to identify opportunities for investment. Whether tapping into remaining funds from previous quarters or planning capital expenditures for the months ahead, launching a project now can support both immediate upgrades and long-term asset management goals. Renovating in spring often helps avoid the late-year construction rush that drives up costs and strains internal resources. Spring is also a pivotal moment for businesses preparing for an influx of traffic. Retail centers, office buildings, hospitality properties, and educational institutions often see an increase in activity during the summer and fall months. Starting a renovation now ensures your property is ready to welcome more visitors, tenants, or customers without the added pressure of doing construction during peak operational periods. Timing isn’t just about occupancy, either—it’s about minimal disruption. Late spring and early summer frequently coincide with reduced office activity, school breaks, or lighter business schedules. This lull can provide a critical window for getting things done with less interference to everyday operations. At Omni, we collaborate closely with our clients to develop tailored construction timelines that accommodate your business, staff, and building access needs, so work gets done efficiently without unnecessary disruption. In commercial real estate, appearance and perception matter more than ever. Spring is an optimal time to invest in your property's curb appeal, just ahead of the peak leasing season. Whether it’s a refreshed lobby, upgraded common spaces, or an enhanced exterior design, these improvements can make a powerful first impression—boosting tenant retention, property value, and leasing activity. When prospective clients or tenants walk into a clean, modernized space, they see a property that’s cared for and ready for the future. Built on Experience. Driven by Process. Since 1985, Omni Commercial Group has delivered renovation and construction services across the Chicagoland region and beyond. We were founded by professionals rooted in facilities management—people who understood buildings from the inside out. That legacy has evolved into a full-service general contracting firm that handles projects of all scopes and scales, across a diverse range of industries. What sets us apart isn’t just the work we do—it’s how we do it. Our process is built on transparency, communication, and a commitment to excellence at every stage. From the initial consultation, we take time to understand your goals and vision, ensuring that every project begins with clarity and direction. Our planning phase includes detailed scheduling, budget alignment, and a strategic roadmap that reflects your timeline, operations, and long-term objectives. During construction, our experienced team oversees every detail with precision and professionalism. You won’t have to guess what’s happening—we keep you informed throughout the process with regular updates, clear communication, and accountability built into every milestone. Upon completion, we walk through the finished space with you, confirm every detail is up to standard, and provide ongoing support as needed. We’ve successfully completed more than 1,000 projects and are proud to be a union-affiliated, women-owned company. Our clients trust us because we honor their timelines, budgets, and expectations—delivering not just spaces, but peace of mind. Let’s Build Something Better—Starting This Spring Spring is the season of growth and opportunity, and there’s no better time to invest in your property. Whether you're looking to complete long-needed repairs, improve functionality, or reimagine a space entirely, Omni Commercial Group is your trusted partner in commercial renovation. With decades of experience, a streamlined process, and a deep understanding of facility needs, we’re here to help you bring your vision to life. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discover how we can make your next construction project a success—on time, on budget, and built to last.
Each year, Women in Construction Week highlights the invaluable contributions women make to the construction industry. At Omni Commercial Group , we take immense pride in being a WBENC-certified business, actively supporting and advocating for the growth of women in the trades.
As the commercial real estate industry evolves, staying ahead of emerging trends is crucial for property owners, investors, and businesses. At Omni Commercial Group , we’re dedicated to not only identifying these trends but also assisting with the construction and renovation of commercial spaces to meet the demands of 2025. Here are the top commercial real estate trends and how Omni Commercial Group can help:
As the commercial construction industry evolves, staying ahead of trends is essential for real estate developers, facility managers, and building operators overseeing large-scale projects. In 2025, innovation, sustainability, and functionality will converge to redefine how we design and build commercial spaces. Here’s a closer look at the emerging technologies, materials, and practices shaping the industry, with a spotlight on the growing demand for mixed-use developments.
As 2024 draws to a close, we’re thrilled to share highlights from a year filled with transformative projects. Omni Commercial Group has continued its legacy of innovation and craftsmanship, creating spaces that inspire, elevate, and redefine possibilities. Here’s a closer look at the standout projects that made this year unforgettable:
In the world of commercial development, managing large-scale projects is both an art and a science. For Omni Commercial Group , each project comes with unique challenges, but we’ve learned that a blend of strategic planning, precision execution, and client-centered collaboration forms the backbone of our successful delivery. Here, we’ll share some key insights into our approach, lessons learned from our projects, and best practices for managing these complex undertakings from inception to completion. 1.Project Planning and Pre-Construction: Laying a Strong Foundation Every successful project starts with meticulous planning. At Omni, we believe that a robust pre-construction phase not only defines the success of a project but also sets the stage for smooth execution. Best Practice: Comprehensive Feasibility Assessments Before any work begins, our team conducts feasibility assessments, factoring in site conditions, budget constraints, and environmental impact. For example, in a recent project involving a multi-story office building, our initial assessment identified potential zoning hurdles and traffic flow issues. Addressing these early helped us avoid costly delays later on. Lesson Learned: Early Stakeholder Engagement is Key Working closely with clients, architects, and regulatory bodies from the outset streamlines the approval process. Regular consultations prevent misalignment and allow us to design a project that meets everyone’s expectations. 2. The Design Phase: Ensuring Vision Aligns with Feasibility Once the foundation is in place, we move on to the design phase. Our design process balances functionality, aesthetics, and regulatory compliance, all while keeping the client’s vision at the forefront. Best Practice: Integrate Sustainable and Future-Ready Design Elements Omni Commercial Group prioritizes sustainable design, recognizing the long-term value it brings. For instance, in a recent retail development project, we included energy-efficient lighting and HVAC systems, which reduced operational costs for the client while enhancing environmental responsibility. Lesson Learned: Adaptability is Crucial Projects often evolve as unforeseen factors arise. Flexibility in design and an openness to innovative solutions, such as modular components, have proven invaluable in keeping our projects on schedule without compromising quality. 3. Execution: Coordinated Efforts for Precision in Building Execution is where the planning and design come to life. For large-scale projects, seamless coordination across various teams, from construction crews to engineers, is critical. Best Practice: Robust Project Management Systems Using advanced project management software, we keep track of each milestone, monitor progress, and promptly address any arising issues. This system proved particularly effective on a recent hotel project, where managing multiple subcontractors across various stages required real-time updates to stay within timelines. Lesson Learned: A Strong Communication Chain Prevents Costly Mistakes Transparent and timely communication across teams has consistently helped us avoid rework and delays. By having dedicated liaisons for each department, we ensure that everyone is aligned, minimizing room for errors and maintaining quality control. 4. Navigating Unexpected Challenges: Lessons in Problem Solving No project is without its hurdles. From supply chain disruptions to unforeseen site issues, our experience has taught us the importance of resilience and adaptability. Best Practice: Proactive Risk Management We actively mitigate potential risks through contingency planning. During the pandemic, one of our projects faced material shortages and labor constraints. Thanks to a pre-established risk management plan, we swiftly adapted schedules and sourced alternative suppliers, keeping the project on track. Lesson Learned: A Solution-Oriented Team Culture Makes All the Difference Encouraging a culture of problem-solving within our team has been instrumental. When faced with unexpected challenges, a proactive team that thinks creatively can pivot effectively, ensuring project continuity and maintaining client satisfaction. 5. Final Delivery: Exceeding Client Expectations The final delivery stage is about more than just handing over a finished building; it’s about ensuring that the final product meets or exceeds the client’s expectations. Best Practice: Detailed Quality Control and Handover Process Our commitment to quality is reflected in our detailed inspections and rigorous quality control protocols. For example, in our work with a high-tech manufacturing facility, the client had stringent operational requirements. We conducted multiple walkthroughs and checks to ensure compliance with all specifications before the official handover. Lesson Learned: A Smooth Handover Leaves a Lasting Impression A comprehensive handover with thorough documentation, training sessions, and clear post-project support builds trust and reflects our dedication to client satisfaction. Clients appreciate our commitment to not only delivering a quality product but also ensuring they have the knowledge and resources to operate it effectively. Conclusion: The Omni Commercial Group Difference Managing large-scale commercial projects requires a thoughtful approach that combines planning, adaptability, and an unwavering focus on client needs. At Omni Commercial Group, we apply these principles to every project, drawing from our experience to implement best practices and learn from each unique challenge. Our dedication to excellence has allowed us to build lasting partnerships and bring our clients’ visions to life, on time and within budget. If you’re considering a large commercial project, reach out to Omni Commercial Group. Let us help turn your vision into a reality, backed by experience, expertise, and a commitment to excellence. Visit us at www.omnicommercialgroup.com to learn more about our services and past projects.
