About Us

J.F. Will Co. is a Central California-based general engineering contractor offering full-scale site development and civil construction services. Established in 2001, we’ve grown into one of the region’s most respected excavation, utility, and paving contractors—serving Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, and Ventura Counties.
We bring over 37 years of field experience, 100+ pieces of heavy equipment, and a team of skilled professionals to every job. Whether it’s a multimillion-dollar commercial site or a complex municipal infrastructure project, we deliver safe, timely, and precise results.

Our Values & Mission

Craftsmanship

We deliver reliable, precise work using in-house crews and maintained equipment.

Safety First

CalOSHA certified team. Full-time safety officer on staff

Community Commitment

Actively support regional nonprofits, schools, and city projects

Client-Focused

We build long-term relationships, not just jobs.

Certifications & Licenses

Meet the J.F. Will Co. Leadership Team

🧱 Field & Project Management

Steve Chambers

Estimator, Project/Operations Management
Licensed Engineering Contractor
40 years of experience

Jeff Jaeckels

Estimator, Project Management – Concrete
Licensed Concrete Contractor
35 years of experience

Bryan Summers

Project Superintendent – Site Development
Licensed Engineering Contractor
35 years of experience

Peter Kopcrak

Estimator, Project Manager
B.S. Construction Management – Cal Poly SLO
34 years of experience

Rita Bhatt

PE – Civil Engineer, Estimator, Project Manager
B.S. Engineering – Cal Poly Pomona
10 years of experience

Darin Gooley

Estimator, Project Manager
Licensed Contractor – B, C20, C36
25 years of experience

🔐 Safety, HR, & Operations

Keith Ramsey

Safety Officer, Human Resources

B.S. Business – Texas Tech University
38 years of experience

Karen Gracia

Bookkeeper, Billing & Accounting
30 years of experience

Summer Morgan

Office Management & Administration
B.S. – Cal Poly SLO

Our roots in construction run deep—four generations deep.

OUR STORY

The Will family’s legacy in construction is a testament to four generations of dedication, innovation, and hard work, beginning with Jake Will, the visionary patriarch and John Will’s grandfather. In 1939, Jake arrived on California’s central coast, equipped with a civil engineering degree and surveyor’s license, to survey Camp Cooke, now Vandenberg Air Force Base.  Captivated by the charm of the region, Jake joined SP Milling Company in 1941 before establishing his own enterprise, Coast Rock Products, in 1955.  The company specialized in concrete production and aggregates, laying the groundwork for the family’s enduring impact in construction.

 Jake’s son, Jay Will, embraced the family business in 1957, continuing the tradition.  Meanwhile, John Will’s journey began at the young age of 12, working part-time at the rock plant and gaining invaluable experience.  With his charismatic personality, strong work ethic, and natural leadership skills, John built a robust network of relationships in the industry.  At 18, armed with extensive construction knowledge, he pursued a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Portland.  Upon graduating in 1982, John returned to Coast Rock Products.

Eager to forge his own path, John earned his contractor’s license in 1986 and partnered with Mike Ross to co-found MJ Ross Inc.  What began as a modest venture with just four employees rapidly expanded to a team of 70.  However, John’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish his own company, The J. F. Will Company, Inc., in 2000.  Over the years, the company has delivered exceptional projects that have significantly enriched the central coast community.

Now, John looks to the future with pride and anticipation as his son, a graduate of Cal Poly SLO’s Construction Management program prepares to join the family’s business, after he completes his tour of duty with the Army.  Together, they will carry the Will family legacy into its fourth generation, continuing to leave an indelible mark on the community they cherish.

Community Involvement

  • Santa Maria Valley Contractors Association – President 1996-1997
  • Youth Sports Coach – Football, Soccer, Little League Baseball & Basketball (2000–2015)
  • North Santa Barbara County Special Olympics – Fund Raising Co-Chairman (2000–2017)
  • Marian Regional Medical Center Community Hospital
    – Hospital Community Board 2004–2014
    – Board Chair 2010–2011
    – Foundation Board 1998–2004
    – Foundation Chair 2003–2004
  • Santa Maria Airport – Board of Directors 2007–2008
  • Santa Maria Police Council – 2018–2024
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