Leadership Team

Jeff Grady

Founder/CEO

Jeff has over 30 years of experience in the construction industry. He began his construction career as a carpenter. The mastery of his craft and leadership ability quickly led him to a general superintendent role and then to an overall field operations manager.

As the Founder/CEO, he heads all operations and is directly involved with all of our projects. His years in the industry have given him hands-on construction experience of industrial, retail, distribution, warehouse, office, indoor sports facilities, recreation clubs and residential building projects.

Jeff also leads the company safety policies and procedures. Prevention of injuries to our employees, customers, the public and those that visit our job sites is the first and primary concern. Jeff leads the committee that enforces our policies and is committed to learning safety measures first hand and ensuring that all employees learn and understand these as well.

Sam Blahnik

President, Business Development

Sam joined the 1848 team as Director of Business Development in early 2019. Subsequently in 2021 he became a company shareholder. Sam’s passion for strong working relationships shows in everything he does, whether he is seeking out new business opportunities, or coordinating and implementing plans for our current clients to reach their goals.

Prior to joining 1848, Sam spent five years guiding the development efforts at the Village of DeForest – one of Dane County’s fastest growing communities. Highlights of Sam’s time in DeForest include involvement with developers and brokers, existing company retention and expansion efforts, as well as the attraction of many new businesses to the area. The experience and relationships Sam brings to the table helps the positive momentum 1848 Construction has been experiencing in recent years.

Highlights of Sam’s time in DeForest include the additions of businesses like Norske Nook restaurant, Miller-Bradford & Risberg, American Packaging Corporation, Little Potato Company, Fleet Farm and GRB Academy, as well as the expansions of businesses such as EVCO Plastics, Clack Corporation and Bell Laboratories.

Nate Graney

Vice President

Nate has over 25 years of experience in the construction industry. He started as a carpenter at a young age, and furthered his knowledge by working towards a project manager role after finishing his schooling.

As Vice President and Senior Project Manager, Nate’s background brings a modern view on design-build concepts. His continued success comes from his enthusiasm to build solid relationships with clients, and attention to detail while estimating and following through the final stages of completion on projects.

Nate received his Associate's Degree with emphasis in Architectural Design from Madison Area Technical College.

"Throughout the entire process, from the initial quoting discussions through the completion of the projects, 1848 was a pleasure to work with. From the very beginning, it was apparent that they take ownership of your project on each and every detail, knowing that your success is dependent on their commitment to quality, budget and timeline. Their team has a great deal of experience and instills confidence that your project is in great hands."

Wayne Hansen, P.E., President
i3 Product Development