Today we’d like to introduce you to Henry Specht.
Henry, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I’ve always had a love for building things and figuring out how they work. Even as a kid, I was the one taking things apart just to see how they went back together. That curiosity, combined with a pretty strong entrepreneurial streak, is really what set me on this path.
After earning my degree in Construction Science and Management from Kansas State University, I spent about ten years working for commercial construction companies. That time was incredibly valuable — it taught me how big projects come together, how to manage complex schedules and budgets, and most importantly, how much the success of a project depends on communication and teamwork.
By 2019, I knew it was time to take the leap and start something of my own. That’s when Specht Construction was born. I wanted to bring that commercial-level professionalism and attention to detail into the residential and custom home world, while also building a company culture centered around integrity, craftsmanship, and genuine relationships.
Those early days were intense. I was on the jobsite every single day — running tools, swinging a hammer, solving problems in real time — and then spending evenings meeting with clients or pricing jobs. One minute I’d be framing a wall, the next I’d be at someone’s kitchen table helping them decide on finishes. It was exhausting but incredibly rewarding. Looking back, I think wearing every hat in those early years helped me understand every piece of the business inside and out.
As we grew, the projects got bigger and more complex. We went from small remodels to full-home renovations and ground-up custom builds. But even with that growth, one thing has stayed the same: building trust is everything. Clients invite us into their homes and trust us with one of their most important investments — that’s not something we take lightly.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Like any business owner, we’ve faced our share of challenges. One of the hardest lessons early on was learning to grow with intention. When you’re building a business, it’s tempting to say yes to everything that comes your way. But not every project or partnership is the right fit, and figuring that out has been a big part of how we’ve shaped who we are as a company.
The last few years have thrown the whole construction industry some curveballs too. Supply chain issues in 2020 and 2021, for example, forced us to rethink how we plan and communicate. It taught me that transparency with clients is everything — even when the news isn’t great, being upfront and proactive builds trust.
Another huge piece of the journey has been building the right team. I learned quickly that no matter how passionate or hardworking I am, the company is only as strong as the people standing beside me. Investing in the right people — people who care deeply about the quality of their work and the experience we deliver — has been one of the best decisions I’ve made.
Through it all, I’ve learned that you never really “arrive” as a business owner. There’s always something new to learn, a better way to do things, and another challenge around the corner. But that’s also what keeps it exciting. We get to build homes, yes — but I also get to build relationships, a team, and a company I’m proud of. And for me, that’s the most rewarding part of it all.
As you know, we’re big fans of Specht Construction. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Specht Construction is a licensed general contractor serving the greater Kansas City metro area. We focus on large scale projects – home additions, home additions and large scale renovations. I love the challenge that comes with creating a new addition and marrying that with the current home. Ultimately, I want to make sure homeowners see the value in what they are asking us to create
We have a team of seven guys in the field – superintendents and field support. An office manager who keeps everything running smoothly. My wife, Paige, does all of our social media, marketing and helps with design and selection. We have a great group of subcontractors we have built relationships with who make our projects a success as well.
I’m excited about where Specht Construction is headed. The foundation we’ve built — both literally and figuratively — sets us up to keep growing in the right ways. We’re focused on continuing to elevate the client experience, expanding the range of projects we take on, and constantly refining our systems so that the building process feels smooth and enjoyable from start to finish.
More than anything, I want to keep building a company that lasts — one that people are proud to work for and clients are excited to work with. Every project is a new opportunity to bring someone’s vision to life, and that never gets old. The future feels wide open, and I’m grateful every day that I get to do what I love: build, create, and make a lasting impact through the spaces we help bring to life.
Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
Outside of work — which is something I truly enjoy and honestly have a hard time pulling myself away from — I really value the slower, simpler moments at home. With five kids (10, 8, 6, 4, and 2), plus the demands of running a business, life can feel like it’s always moving at full speed. That’s why our Sundays have become something sacred in our house. It’s the one day of the week where we all hit pause and focus on what matters most.
Our Sunday routine is simple, but it’s something I look forward to every week. We start the morning by going to Mass together as a family. It’s a grounding way to begin the day and a reminder of what’s most important. After church, we come home and make a big breakfast — pancakes, bacon, the whole spread — with all the kids helping out in the kitchen. It’s loud and chaotic, but it’s also one of my favorite parts of the week.
The rest of the day usually unfolds pretty naturally. Sometimes we’ll stay home and work on little projects around the house or in the shop. The kids love to run in and “help,” and even if their version of helping slows me down, I love having them right there beside me, curious and involved. Other Sundays, we might be out in the yard, grilling, or just spending time together without an agenda.
Sports are also a big part of our family life. I coach youth baseball and try to stay as involved as I can in whatever activities the kids are into — whether that’s practices, games, or just playing catch in the backyard. Those moments on the field or in the driveway are some of the best parts of my week. Coaching isn’t just about teaching them how to play the game — it’s about showing up, building confidence, and creating memories together.
All of those moments — Sunday mornings, shop projects, baseball practices — are what recharge me. They remind me why I work as hard as I do and what all the effort is really for. Building a business is fulfilling, but building a life — a home, memories, traditions — that’s where the real happiness comes from.
And honestly, those experiences shape the way I think about the work we do at Specht Construction. At the end of the day, we’re not just building walls and roofs — we’re creating the spaces where families will share meals, celebrate milestones, and build their own Sunday traditions. Understanding that on a personal level influences every decision we make as a company. It’s why craftsmanship, functionality, and livability matter so much to me. Because I know firsthand that a home isn’t just a structure — it’s the backdrop for life’s most meaningful moments.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Specht-construction.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spechtconstruction?igsh=MTk2N2phaG9hOWU5Zw==
