Our History

The history of Marco reflects a legacy of innovation and resilience, adapting to industry changes while consistently delivering quality projects for over five decades.

Founded by Tom Hickman, Marco emerged from the vision of a leader committed to excellence. Tom’s early career with the Foundation Company of Canada and his tenure at Lundrigan’s paved the way for his pivotal role as President of Newfoundland Engineering and Construction Company (NECCO). In 1979, driven by a passion for building and a deep-rooted commitment to the community, Tom led the senior management and staff of NECCO in the formation of Marco. Under Tom’s guidance, Marco quickly established itself as a trusted name in construction, delivering some of the most iconic structures in Newfoundland and Labrador.

His legacy of integrity and craftsmanship shaped the company’s core values, which continue to guide us today. Tom remained a guiding force, offering his insights and expertise until his passing in December 2015.

Explore key milestones that have defined our evolution, showcasing our pursuit of quality and our commitment to serving our clients and communities. From our first groundbreaking projects to our expansion across Atlantic Canada, our history reflects a story of growth, resilience, and family.

Our timeline

1979

Tom Hickman leads the senior management and staff of Newfoundland Engineering and Construction Company (NECCO) in the formation of Marco.

1984

Marco completes the construction of the Bank of Nova Scotia building in St. John’s, an 11-story structure that becomes the tallest building in the city at the time.

1986

Marco moves into its current offices in St. John’s.

1991

Christopher Hickman, Tom's son, joins Marco.

1999

Marco achieves COR certification, meeting a national standard for occupational health and safety management systems in the construction industry.

1999

Rod Ackerman joins Marco.

2000

Christopher Hickman assumes the role of President and CEO.

2001

After years of working on retail renovations across Atlantic Canada, Marco secures its first retail construction project for Walmart.

2003

Marco expands its operations, opening an office in Halifax. Allan Macintosh joins Marco.

2005

Tom Hickman retires and Christopher Hickman assumes the position of Chairman.

2017

Marco becomes a member of the Family Business Institute. Marco embarks on the Memorial University of Newfoundland (MUN) Core Science Facility, a 42,000-square-meter facility. Marco initiates its first P3 project, the Corner Brook Long Term Care Facility.

2019

Allan Macintosh is appointed President, and Rod Ackerman becomes COO.

2024

Marco Group Retains Status as Best Managed Company for Fifth Consecutive Year, Achieves Gold Standard Winner Designation
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