In the world of construction, where structures rise and steel meets concrete, CHASSE Building Team, led by visionary Barry Chasse, has been quietly rewriting the narrative of corporate responsibility since its inception in 2007. “Built different, on purpose” isn’t just a slogan for CHASSE; it’s a guiding philosophy that has transformed a small team into a powerhouse of positive change.
Barry Chasse’s journey epitomizes the American dream, starting as a project coordinator earning a modest $6 per hour and steadily climbing the construction ladder. His early struggles laid the foundation for CHASSE’s ethos, grounded in teamwork, community collaboration and a commitment to make construction more than just a utilitarian endeavor.
Over the years, CHASSE has evolved from a team of 10 to a workforce of more than 225 in Phoenix and Tucson. However, its growth isn’t measured solely in numbers and profits but in the substantial investments made in charitable causes. With a focus on child-centric philanthropy and educational initiatives, CHASSE has poured more than $4 million into various community projects.
In a move that underscores their dedication to preserving the company’s unique culture, the owners made a groundbreaking decision in December 2021. The entire business was sold to the very heartbeat of CHASSE — the teammates. Through an Employee Stock Ownership Plan, now renamed the Teammate Stock Ownership Plan, every employee became a stakeholder in the company’s success. “Built different, on purpose!” resonates not just as a slogan but as a guiding principle steering CHASSE toward a future where corporate responsibility is intertwined with individual empowerment.
Philanthropy, for CHASSE, is not an afterthought but a core value woven into the fabric of its existence. Barry Chasse emphasizes, “We empower team members to go above and beyond for the community even at times when they are not taking part in a formal or obvious volunteer, fundraising or donation project.” The commitment to this principle is evident in the numerous initiatives and programs that CHASSE has championed over the years.
One standout program is its approach to K-12 construction projects. Beyond erecting buildings, CHASSE seeks to bring construction into the classroom, fostering a hands-on, real-time Project-Based Learning experience. Collaborating with architects and school districts, students engage in designing, budgeting and assessing constructability. The construction stage becomes a dynamic learning environment, offering insights into industry-wide technology, math applications and hands-on activities. It’s a dual-purpose philosophy — giving back to the community while nurturing the potential of future leaders.
The company’s commitment to local charities remains unwavering. CHASSE has touched the lives of more than 100 nonprofits, foundations and charitable organizations, contributing not just funds but also more than 3,000 volunteer hours annually. It’s a holistic approach that views philanthropy as more than a monetary transaction — it’s about active engagement, creating meaningful connections and leaving a lasting impact.
One such impactful project was CHASSE’s collaboration with Catholic Charities-MANA House, providing shelter for homeless veterans in the Valley. Partnerships with ICAN charities, Boys & Girls Club and Sojourner Center showcase a commitment to diverse causes that uplift the community. The annual CHASSE-giving program during Thanksgiving exemplifies the company’s dedication to addressing immediate needs, rallying support for those in need.
But the commitment to community doesn’t stop with corporate leaders. The faces behind CHASSE, like Fred Bueler, Matthew Wedding, Leigh-Anne Harrison, Dani Huval, Vicente Teran and Gene Amos, are actively engaged in various community organizations. Their involvement extends beyond the boardroom, reflecting a personal commitment to the causes they champion. From leading STEM initiatives to supporting education foundations, their multifaceted roles mirror the diversity of impact CHASSE aims to achieve.
Barry Chasse, as the founder and president, is not just a corporate leader but a community stalwart. His honorary trustee role for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale and leadership in the Arizona Builder’s Alliance demonstrate a lifelong dedication to shaping the future. The involvement of CHASSE leaders in organizations like Scottsdale Charros, Chandler Compadres and Nite Flite underscores the company’s commitment to fostering a broader sense of community.
The CHASSE Building Team stands as a beacon of corporate citizenship. Its journey, rooted in a humble beginning, is a testament to the transformative power of purpose-driven leadership. The narrative of CHASSE is not just about constructing buildings; it’s about constructing a legacy of positive change — one brick, one project and one community at a time. In a world often defined by profit margins, CHASSE has etched a different path, proving that success is not just measured in structures erected but in the lives touched and communities uplifted.
Tyler Butler is a chief social impact officer for a publicly traded corporate portfolio where she leads programs that positively impact humanity. She is also the founder of 11Eleven Consulting, and she is often cited as a subject matter expert by Forbes, SHRM, Entrepreneur, U.S. News & World Report and more.
