A Carpenter’s Son 1896-1919
In 1896, Alfred Gotthard “Pete” Pearson was born in Sölvesborg, Sweden, the son of a carpenter. He learned the trade early developing the skills and work ethic that would ultimately shape a company and a legacy.
In 1914, Pete immigrated to the United States, and just a few years later, he served in World War I, where he was wounded in combat. After returning home and becoming a U.S. citizen in 1919, he began building not just structures, but a life rooted in craftsmanship and resilience.
Bridges & Beginnings 1920s
In the early 1920s, Pete worked throughout Skagit and Whatcom County, building bridges and structures that would help define the region’s early infrastructure. By 1927, he officially founded Pearson Construction, bringing his independent vision to life.
Homes Built to Last 1930s-1940s
The company quickly earned a reputation for quality and durability, building homes across Whatcom County; many of them brick, many of them still standing today.
As the company grew, so did the next generation.
Pete’s son, Gotthard “Roy” Pearson, was raised in the business learning the trade from a young age and working summers alongside his father. After serving in the Army Air Corps during World War II and earning his pilot’s license, he returned home to continue building his future in construction.
Growth and Incorporation 1950s-1960s
Through the 1950s, Roy Pearson combined hands-on trade experience with formal education at Washington State University, eventually becoming a licensed professional and stepping into leadership.
By 1960, Pearson Construction was incorporated, marking a new chapter of growth and professionalism. Under Roy’s leadership, the company expanded its capabilities, taking on more complex projects including churches, commercial buildings, and community spaces.
The work was no longer just residential; it was shaping the community.
Adversity and Renewal 1970s
In 1972, a fire destroyed the company’s headquarters on Franklin Street. But like so many moments in Pearson’s history, adversity became a turning point. Operations continued from a mobile office, and the company rebuilt stronger and more resilient.
Larry Pederson joined Pearson in 1973, followed by Phill Haggeman in 1975, marking the beginning of the next generation as two young professionals invested in the company’s future.
The Next Generation 1980s
By the 1980s, Pearson Construction had earned regional recognition, with award-winning projects and licenses across multiple states.
Their growing reputation for quality craftsmanship and reliable results had made them a trusted name in the industry, attracting clients who valued excellence and a team that always delivered.
Shared Leadership 1980s
In 1984, Roy Pearson sold shares of the company to Larry Pederson and Phill Haggeman marking the beginning of a new era of shared leadership. Over the following decades, a number of key partners contributed to the company’s continued growth and stability, including Steve Reynolds.
In 1989, Roy Pearson retired, leaving behind more than a company, he left a foundation of craftsmanship, integrity, and community impact that would carry forward into future generations.
These partnerships strengthened Pearson’s ability to adapt, expand, and remain competitive while staying true to the values established by its founders.
A Sharper Focus 1990s-2000s
Through the 1990s and early 2000s, Pearson continued to refine its focus. In 1994, the architecture division was phased out, allowing the company to concentrate fully on construction and project delivery.
Stewardship Across Generations 2000s-2010s
The decades that followed were defined by steady growth and thoughtful leadership transitions. Bob Griffiths became an owner in 2007 and played a significant role in leading and shaping the company. Jake Pederson joined the ownership group in 2009, contributing to the company’s continued success and helping ensure continuity as Pearson prepared for its next chapter.
A New Chapter 2020
In 2018, as the team continued to grow, Pearson Construction relocated its office from Franklin Street to its current home on the Guide Meridian, a move that provided the expanded space needed for both staff and workshops to thrive.
In 2020, Pearson Construction entered its next chapter when Scott, Derek, and Nick Isenhart purchased the company, carrying forward a legacy that began nearly a century earlier. Re-established as Pearson Builders, the company continues its long-standing tradition of craftsmanship, quality, and client-focused service in the custom residential and private commercial markets.
Building Forwards Today
Together, Pearson Builders and sister company Tiger Construction offer expertise across both the private and public sectors. Pearson Builders focuses on luxury homes, remodels, and private commercial projects, while Tiger Construction specializes in public works, educational, civic, and industrial construction throughout the region.
Today, under the leadership of Scott and Derek Isenhart, the two companies share a common vision: combining generations of experience with a commitment to building exceptional projects, lasting partnerships, and stronger communities.
As Pearson approaches 100 years in business, its story remains rooted in the same guiding principle:
building relationships by exceeding expectations.
Tiger and Pearson Make Two Companies With One Vision
Pearson Builders & Tiger Construction still remain separate companies with common ownership.
Our team now combines Tiger Construction’s capability of performing large public works contracts with Pearson’s expertise in private commercial and luxury home markets. Together, our owners and employees will continue to focus on serving clients and communities throughout Washington State, specializing in commercial, industrial, public works and custom home building.
Tiger Construction is one of the oldest local companies with customers throughout Whatcom County. Tiger Construction employees are dedicated to providing great customer service by delivering projects on time and on budget. Our experience and our self-performed services make us one of the most qualified local contractors in the area. We have the ability to self-perform civil, concrete, and carpentry which will result in a more comprehensive package to the pre-construction services and shorter construction schedule.