Sentry formally opens new building
For the Metro Wire
Sentry leaders and local and state dignitaries gathered Monday, March 11, for a ribbon cutting ceremony to mark the completion of its new state-of-the-art office located at the gateway to the city adjacent to the mutual insurer’s national headquarters.
Located at the corner of Division St. and North Point Dr. near SPASH, the seven-story, 270,000-square-foot facility will house up to 600 Sentry associates who work in the company’s claims, national accounts, and transportation business areas.
The office, which helps accommodate growth at Sentry, reflects the employer’s investment in workforce development, technology, and enriching the lives of those who live and work here in the Stevens Point area.
“With new facilities such as this, we’re continuing to make Sentry a great place to work,” said Pete McPartland, Sentry chairman of the board, president, and CEO. “We knew we needed more office space, and this building will help us attract and retain quality associates. We’ve created an environment that’s stimulating, one that provides access to new technology to enhance our associates’ productivity and effectiveness—in a physical setting that’s attractive and uplifting.”
Sentry hired Flad Architects of Madison to design the office—the same company that designed the Sentry headquarters across the street, which was built in 1977. J.H. Findorff & Son of Madison oversaw construction of the new office. More than 1,100 people worked on the building or produced products for it—most workers on site were local.
“There is an exceptional level of quality and detail throughout the facility,” said Jeff Raasch, principal of Flad Architects. “I do believe this is a building that’s going to attract a lot of attention, not only in Central Wisconsin but on a national level. It’s going to be a showstopper.”
“Findorff is honored to be part of the team responsible for this incredible and unique facility,” said Rich Lynch, chairman of Findorff. “The leadership provided by Pete McPartland, his talented team, and the Board will allow Sentry to continue its commitment to the Central Wisconsin community and to the health and well-being of employees and customers. This new facility, along with the commitment by all involved, is another step toward an exciting and successful future.”
The building features customizable office spaces, along with meeting and conference rooms. It includes an on-site cafeteria, coffee shop, and wellness center. The complex also includes a three-story parking ramp, terrace and gardens, walking paths, and indoor/outdoor spaces for associates to take breaks.
“We are very proud to have Sentry in Stevens Point and this beautiful new iconic building at the entrance to our city is stunning,” said Mike Wiza, Stevens Point mayor. “It reflects a blend of sustainable design, technology, and growth that reminds us why Sentry continues to be a leader in its field and in our community.”
“This new facility was built without tax concessions or financial assistance from the fine taxpayers of this city and state,” added McPartland. “It’s an investment we made proudly. We take to heart our responsibility as a civic partner, economic driver, and contributor to the quality of life here in Central Wisconsin.”
Sentry associates will begin moving into the office later this week.
“This building is our future—it shows us where we’re going and how far we’ve come,” said Elisha Robinson, Sentry chief planning officer. “And that means a lot to both Sentry and Stevens Point. It’s a promise for the future, it’s a promise for success.”
Sentry has a long history in Stevens Point. Hardware Dealers Mutual Fire Insurance Company of Wisconsin—the original Sentry name—moved from Berlin, Wisconsin, to Stevens Point in 1912. Sentry has been a stalwart of Stevens Point and Central Wisconsin since. The company employs about 2,500 people in the Stevens Point area and more than 4,300 nationwide.