Inspired by education
803.345.3791
Inspired by education
803.345.3791
Just inside the Newberry County line, on the banks of the Broad River, sits the Edcon home office. On June 1, 1988, the quaint railroad town of Peak, SC is where James M. Edwards III (Eddie) determined would be the perfect place to turn his vision into a reality. Eddie bought the old F.T. Chapman General Store and cleaned it up. From humble beginnings completing small office and church renovations, today Edcon has grown into one of the premier contractors for educational and athletic facilities in South Carolina. Edcon employs cutting edge technology and a large workforce of highly skilled labor, which enables us to excel in the markets we serve.
Our philosophy is to always put people first. We treat everyone with respect—our customers, partners, and employees alike. Maintaining excellent client relations is as important to us as delivering a high quality of work on a budget and within the desired time frame. We believe that a strong, well-respected team is the key to delivering the best possible project for our clients. This belief extends beyond just our primary team—it extends to all consultants and subcontractors that we work with. Establishing, building, and maintaining open and honest relationships with them is crucial to the success of every project.
For the past three decades, Edcon has shown flexibility in delivery methods. Staying true to our general contractor roots, we maintain a strong presence in the hard bid market. However, as one of the first contractors in South Carolina to employ CM At-Risk to deliver school projects in 2008, we are equally adept in alternative delivery methods. Our strong commitment to competitively bid projects enables us to bring a lean and aggressive approach to CM At-Risk and Design-Build.
EDDIE EDWARDS
President
JOSH EDWARDS
Director of
Pre-Construction
CHASE EDWARDS
Director of
Field Operations
BART SEASE
Director of
Project Management
Kara Cannon
Director of
Business Development
Amy Odom
Controller
Taylor Davenport
Human Resources &
Field Safety Manager
SCOTT HOOD
Project Manager
Brian Sturkie
Project Manager
Owen Sease
Project Manager
EDDIE EDWARDS
President
Upon graduation from Clemson University, Eddie began his lifelong career in commercial construction as a jobsite superintendent. His time in the field taught him many valuable lessons that helped shape the foundation upon which Edcon was founded. In fact, to this day, Eddie still considers himself “just an old superintendent”.
In 1988 Eddie took a leap of faith and established Edcon with the mission to enrich communities throughout South Carolina by building sustainable, high quality construction projects. His unwavering commitment to integrity and quality are the driving forces behind Edcon’s steady growth and financial stability.
Today, Eddie remains actively involved in all key aspects of the company. His leadership continues to provide guidance for the execution of Edcon’s strategic plan and vision.
When Eddie is not in the office, he enjoys spending time with his eight grandchildren, traveling the world, and watching his Tigers play. Eddie is an elder and an active member at Lake Murray Presbyterian Church.
JOSH EDWARDS
Director of
Pre-Construction
At an early age, Josh found himself at the bottom of footings pushing a shovel on Edcon projects in the South Carolina summer heat. Those long summer months as a high school aged laborer set the path for his career in construction. Josh went on to graduate from Clemson University where he received a BS in Construction Science and Management.
After graduation from Clemson, Josh became a full-time employee at Edcon as an Assistant Project Manager. Currently, he serves as our Director of Pre-Construction and oversees projects from development and budgeting to bidding and subcontracting.
Outside of the office, Josh enjoys coaching his children in rec league sports, running, playing basketball, participating in F3, and serving his church, Lake Murray Presbyterian, as an elder and youth advisor.
josh@edconinc.com
803.345.3791
PO Box 100
Peak, SC 29122
CHASE EDWARDS
Director of
Field Operations
Upon graduation from Winthrop University in 2007, Chase officially joined the Edcon family. He began his career as an assistant superintendent on the construction of the new Mid Carolina High School where he learned the business from the ground up. Chase worked his way up to Superintendent and now serves as our Director of Field Operations where he manages all our superintendents, field labor, warehouse staff, and equipment.
Chase is very active in the daily onsite operations of each project, coordinating closely between the field and home office. He is licensed by the state of South Carolina in Unlimited Building- BD5, Asphalt Paving-APS, Concrete Paving-APS, Concrete-CT5, Grading-GD5, and Water & Sewer Lines-WL5.
In his leisure time, Chase enjoys coaching his children in rec league sports, spending time with family on the lake, woodworking, and is a member of Chapin United Methodist Church.
BART SEASE
Director of
Project Management
Bart has been a loyal member of the Edcon family since his graduation from Clemson University in 1992 where he earned a BS in Construction Science and Management. In the early stages of his career Bart spent time in the field as a Superintendent and Assistant Project Manager to build upon the foundation he earned at Clemson. Today he serves as our Director of Project Management. Bart has played an integral and important role in Edcon’s growth.
In addition to serving as Director of Project Management, Bart is an experienced estimator and scheduler. Throughout his career with Edcon, Bart has overseen the construction of more than thirty-five brand new schools across the state of South Carolina. His organization, communication, and attention to detail ensure each project’s success.
Outside of work, Bart is actively involved in activities at Radius Church. He also enjoys playing volleyball, hiking, participating in F3, and attending Clemson football games.
Kara Cannon
Director of
Business Development
Kara joined the Edcon family to enhance the company’s brand and visibility as the new Director of Business Development. As former Deputy Director of Economic Development for Newberry County, she has experience in seeing projects through from the conceptual phase to financial planning, permitting, construction and startup of business operations. Kara holds a BA from Newberry College and has completed the South Carolina Economic Development Institute, the Basic Economic Development Course at the University of North Carolina, and the University of Oklahoma’s Economic Development Institute. Most recently, Kara attained her Masters of Business Administration, with a concentration in Community Economic Development.
Kara is a member of the South Carolina Economic Developers’ Association, and within this organization she is part of the Women’s and Young Professionals’ groups. She is also a member of Central SC Alliance Committee of 100 and the National Society of Leadership and Success.
A mother of four, Kara enjoys much of her leisure time with family. She loves fishing, cooking, and holds a special interest in advocating for autism awareness and acceptance.
kara@edconinc.com
Cell:
803.429.5130
Office:
803.345.3791
PO Box 100
Peak, SC 29122
Amy Odom
Controller
Upon graduation from Clemson University, Amy spent years building a career in administration, finance, and analytics. Her experience in these trades, paired with her steadfast work ethic, make her a valuable asset to Edcon.
Amy oversees all financial components of Edcon. With an intense focus and a strict level of detail she is directly responsible for the successful growth of the accounting department to coincide with company growth in her time here.
Amy enjoys college football in her leisure time, as well as cooking, reading and spending time at the lake.
Taylor Davenport
Human Resources &
Field Safety Manager
Originally from Horry County, Taylor moved to Newberry in 2017. She joined Edcon in 2021, and quickly grew into multi-roles for the company. She oversees all Human Resources duties, including payroll, and Field Safety assessing, planning, and reporting.
Outside of the office, Taylor enjoys spending time with family on the lake, and cheering on the University of South Carolina!
SCOTT HOOD
Project Manager
After graduating from Auburn University with a degree in Political Science, Scott quickly realized that a career in law was not his desire. He transitioned to his passion, construction. Since then, Scott has built his career managing projects across a variety of construction markets. His broad knowledge of residential, light commercial and heavy construction is an asset to our team.
Daily, Scott works closely with owners and architects while coordinating subcontractors and suppliers to ensure each project’s success.
In addition to his professional duties, Scott serves on the Lake Murray Elementary School advisory board and is a member of Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church.
Brian Sturkie
Project Manager
Brian’s career in construction is built upon a foundation of toughness and grit. As a carpenter on residential projects, he learned the value of hard work from a young age. During his time in the field Brian gained a strong respect and understanding for the complex nature of this business. This experience fuels his drive today as a hands-on project manager.
Brian coordinates all areas of the construction phase for the projects he oversees. He also works closely with the pre-construction team to help develop accurate budgets and schedules ahead of the construction phase.
Brian holds a license as a National General Contractor and is involved in the National Association of State Contractors Licensing Agencies/ American Concrete Institute.
In addition to his professional duties, Brian enjoys spending time with his daughter, playing golf, weight training, and running.
Owen Sease
Project Manager
Owen, has been a part of the Edcon family for quite some time. Owen’s father, Bart, has been with us for 31 years, and now Owen is following in his footsteps. Owen started with us part-time during summers and has now taken on the role of Project Manager. We are proud to have him on our team!
Testimonials
As the Director of the Parks and Recreation department I was able to work closely with Edcon during the construction of the Ashley River park. It was a pleasure working with staff on this project. As the flagship park for the department, Bart and his staff were responsive to all concerns the county had and ensured that the product was of the highest quality.
Edcon worked in an efficient and professional manner to complete the project in the timeframe. put forth and I would recommend them for future work.
Dorchester County
As the Principal of Oak Grove Elementary School, I worked directly with Edcon over a two-year timespan overseeing the renovation and new addition project for my school.
Before we began construction, I appreciated the collaboration that was provided to discuss the project and the timeline of the progression of completion. I was invited to all of the construction meetings and my input was sought about the project. Josh Edwards from Edcon was very helpful throughout the process to ensure that I was happy with the final product.
For two summers our building was under construction. The site foreman, James Baxley, was phenomenal to work with. He provided me with daily updates on the construction progress. If there was ever an issue, I was able to call James and Josh and it was quickly handled. When it was time for teachers to return to school, Edcon worked with my schedule to ensure our building was ready for teachers and students. They even helped with the summer cleaning process so our teachers were able to get into their classrooms and begin setting up for the new school year
Edcon provided exceptional customer service during our construction process. Their hard work and dedication shows in their final product.
Oak Grove Elementary School
As we look ahead to the completion of a new 1300 student K-8 school campus this summer, I want to highly commend the professional staff of Edcon, Inc. for their expertise throughout this construction project. We have been extremely pleased with their approach, scheduling, and management of this 2-year construction process; their consistently high level of enthusiasm and creativity; and their patience in helping us make the best long-term decisions for the school community.
I, and the FW Architects team, have had the pleasure of working with Edcon, Inc. on numerous construction projects over the past fifteen years. Their entire staff guided us through scheduling processes, patiently listened to our ideas, reviewed all options for design modifications, presented cost saving recommendations and took the time to meet with all interested parties involved in the decision-making process.
What we received from Edcon, Inc., from beginning to end, was a highly professional group of men and women who knew how to meticulously and graciously work with many different school and community voices who each wanted their opinions heard, questions answered, and enthusiasm kept alive for their projects to succeed. They were willing to respond quickly to concerns, present new options, and help us meet required standards, while keeping our timelines intact and remaining within the owner’s budget.
We look forward to a continued successful working relationship with Edcon, Inc. as we complete the two schools currently under construction and on future projects as we move forward. They understand the concept of the owner/architect/contractor “team”, and their collaborative, “can do” approach makes an often- adversarial process collegial.
I heartily recommend Edcon, Inc to be very strongly considered by other businesses, groups, or individuals who want the best construction services, attention to detail and a complete, successful construction project.
FW Architects, Inc. AIA
It is my pleasure to write a letter of recommendation for Edcon, Inc. As the Director of Public Works for the City of Florence, Iworked directly with Edcon over a two-year timespan overseeing the construction of the Florence Sports Complex. The project involved the construction of a Stadium Field (Carolina Bank Field) with two concessions/restroom buildings, two press box areas, ticket booth, field house with home and visitor dressing rooms, an umpire room and stadium seating for 1,500 spectators which serves as the home field for the Florence Flamingos, a Summer Collegiate Wooden Bat team who is part of the Coastal Plain Summer League. Construction also included a third concession/restroom facility, a high school size baseball field, 5 Little League Fields, as well as an NCAA Track & Field facility.
Edcon, In’s experience and professionalism created an enjoyable and productive environment from pre-construction meetings through the final stages. The ease of communication and ability to smoothly collaborate between teams was a major attribute to the success of this project. Scott Hood, Edcon Project Manager, and Jeremiah Hooker, Edcon Superintendent, were personable, reliable, and had exceptional attention to detail from start to finish. Their passion for the work and this project was recognizable from the start. fI there were ever an issue, I was able to call Scott and Jeremiah and ti would be handled effectively with competency.
Edcon provided exceptional customer service while delivering a state-of-the-art project on schedule and within budget.
City of Florence
I have worked with Bart Sease and Edcon Inc. on several projects and have always found them to be professional, hard-working and knowledgeable regarding construction whether it is renovation, additions or new construction.
Bart Sease , as project manager, has been in charge of projects designed by our firm in size ranging from $500,000 to $ 40 million dollars. Most recently, the Delmae Elementary School project completed in 2017 for Florence School District One, totaling 158,000 square feet at a cost of $22,000,000 million was a new 1200 student elementary school project including a multi-purpose gymnatorium, 500 seat capacity cafeteria and 800 seat football field for two middle schools. Though a complicated project, the project manager, along with his job superintendent, Tab coward, was able to coordinate the project, bringing it in on time for the owner’s use before the school year.
Having construction management experience with several educational facilities over the years has allowed Mr. Sease to understand the importance of communication, coordination, and scheduling of a construction project with tight deadlines.
Presently, Edcon Inc. is working with our firm on the construction of two elementary schools: A Kindergarten- 8th grade elementary/middle school in Berkeley County and a K-5th grade elementary school in Dillon School District Four. Their experience in working with school district personnel, the Office of School Facilities and the architect is vital for a successful project.
It is with total confidence that I recommend Mr. Bart Sease and Edcon Inc. for any construction projects that you may need to provide.
FW Architects, Inc., AIA
It is with enthusiasm that I recommend Edcon Inc. General Contractors and their team. I’ve served beside Josh Edwards and Chase Edwards as Project Manager on the Calhoun High School Addition / Renovation and as Principal in Charge / PM on the new Van Wyck Elementary School with Bart Sease. The differing project types were both delivered on time, within budget and with professionalism for SC K-12 construction and a high-level standard of care throughout the entire process.
My experiences with Edcon Inc. General Contractors have been very successful and I highly recommend Josh, Chase, Bart and the entire EdCon, Inc. team. We always enjoy working with EdCon Inc. and look forward to future projects together.
MOSELEY ARCHITECTS
I have had both the privilege and the pleasure to work with Bart, James, Kara, and other staff from EDCON as they built the new K8 school in Berkeley County South Carolina, the Carolyn Lewis School. This was my first endeavor in opening a new school as its principal and participating in the processes and work that goes into this amazing project. I have participated in building addition to schools; however, I did not have a similar experience with the contractor as I have with the folks from EDCON. Bart and his staff have been so incredibly easy to work with and were extremely patient with me as I asked hundreds of questions and made multiple requests for changes. I found him to be approachable, collaborative, and professional. He held subcontractors accountable and was mindful of timelines. He listened to the voice of his client—working for a school district is a formidable task with so many voices making requests/demands; however, Bart and his staff handled this with grace.
The quality of work that they have done thus far on our building is incredible. The relationship that Bart has built with the architect has assisted in ensuring that we have a quality building that the district, school staff, parents, students, and community can be proud of.
Recently, we held our “Topping Off” ceremony. Kara planned and coordinated all aspects of the event and definitely went above and beyond in the planning. She went the extra mile when she had our logo and seal designs made into flags that were hung on the last beam as it was put into place. It just game me chills. I highly recommend EDCON construction for any project that your organization is ready to embark upon.
Carolyn Lewis School
I have personally worked with Edcon for over 25 years and enjoyed a positive track record of successfully completing projects per schedule, plans and budget. A majority of recent projects have been in the K-12 School sector where Edcon’s experience and team approach helped to lead projects through not only the challenges of construction, but also the rigorous inspection processes. Edcon’s cooperative spirit and dedicated service made the difference in meeting the client’s needs, especially when doing renovations on the campus of active occupied facilities. I look forward to working with them again.
LS3P
As Edcon moves forward into their second generation, this family-owned construction company has been vital to the built environment in South Carolina for over 30 years. Jumper Carter Sease Architects’ working relationship with Edcon Construction predates the companies founding by more than 10 years. We had the opportunity to work with Eddie Edwards, founder of Edcon Construction, on numerous projects as a project manager and general manager of other construction companies prior to him establishing Edcon Construction.
We have been fortunate to work with most of the staff at Edcon Construction. Regardless of the project manager, be it Bart, Josh, Chase or Brian that we have worked with, the projects are all run similar. This helps with project continuity and scheduling. Also, their project superintendents orchestrate the projects to coordinate with the architects, engineers, subcontractors and suppliers. This keeps the construction process fluid and moving.
Edcon Construction has been instrumental in keeping projects on budget and on time. They look ahead to keep their projects on schedule and anticipate issues with deliveries, subcontractor delays and weather, when possible, to avoid or work around such items so that the schedule is maintained. An example of this would be Cain Elementary School. This project required this new facility to be built on an existing site while keeping the current school in operation. Edcon was quick to look at all aspects of the project. While protecting the safety and security of the students and staff, Edcon was quick to: install fencing to secure the construction area; install signage to direct construction traffic to the construction entry avoiding parents, staff and buses; continually reminded suppliers of delivery times as not to inhibit student drop- off and pick-up; made all attempts to schedule noisy work after hours; and most importantly, kept an open line of communication with the district and school’s principal keeping everyone aware of the project’s progress. As this project came to an end, the existing school had to be demolished so that new drives could be installed. Keeping in mind that Edcon Construction had maintained the schedule through the worst of the COVID epidemic, now they had to react to two hurricanes which doused the site and area with torrential rains. Challenged by this, they worked through these issues and the school year started without delay.
We at Jumper Carter Sease Architects have been fortunate to work with Edcon Construction in the past and look forward to continuing our working relationship on future projects.
Jumper Carter Sease Architects
I have worked with the Edcon team on many projects one the years ranging from a new school to additions and even the renovation of a historical building. All projects were met with positive results.
Edcon takes the time to understand the goals as well as the challenges of the owner and works for a solution that is both cost effective and efficient. They understand school districts and the importance of staying on budget and completing a project on time.
Edcon works to build a relationship with the owner that extends well past the project completion. They have worked hard to build a good rapport with OSF, Chapter 1 and 17 inspectors as well as many architectural firms.
In closing, Edcon’s team approach, extensive school experience and relationships in key areas helps to make them a well-rounded company which has proven over and over to lead to successful projects.
Dorchester School District Two
The supervision and leadership provided by Edcon’s project managers and superintendents has been outstanding. These individuals, in collaboration with Mr. Eddie Edwards, Edcon President, have been diligent in keeping the owner informed of the construction progress and challenges and have consistently solved potential problems before they arise.
The School District of Newberry County has been extremely pleased with the quality of workmanship in these facilities. Daily observations by the project superintendent and frequent visits by Edcon, Inc. staff are clear indications Edcon is committed to constructing first class educational facilities which the owner, contractor and community can be proud of.
Newberry County School District
Edcon not only delivered on their target dates, but they did so amid a pandemic. We were able to open three elementary schools, on time, and before the school year started. All of their project managers were very professional and approachable. During a major capital project, your relationship with the general contractor either gets stronger or strained. Our relationship definitely got stronger. I would without hesitation recommend them as a quality contractor.
Darlington County School District
We have had the pleasure of working with Edcon on seven different projects and under three different delivery methods…In the role of general contractor, Edcon worked diligently to coordinate subs, maintain project schedule, and work within budget all the while providing the level of craftsmanship and quality that CCPS expected. As with any construction project challenges arose and changes were made. Edcon worked closely with CCPS and the architect to develop solutions that best suited the project goals.
Edcon brings a refreshing presence to each project with their strong company culture, uncompromising values, and ability to make you feel part of the family atmosphere they’ve cultivated.
Calhoun County Public Schools
I have found EdCon to be reliable, trustworthy, and honest…They possess the knowledge and experience that is required to successfully build a school in today’s market. They have cooperate fully in allowing us to “Design to our budgets in lieu of Budgeting for the Architect/Engineer’s designs.”
Dorchester School District Two
Edcon was a great collaborative partner in helping to manage project costs, project schedule, and managing construction with school events and athletic schedules, delivering the project on schedule.
AAG Architects
Edcon is a family-run business that does quality work without additional oversight and direction. They aim to please and complete their work in a timely manner, often times in spite of outside issues that would throw others off course. Their professionalism, work ethic, and personalized customer service make them a top candidate for any facilities work.
Dorchester School District Two
Edcon continues to be leaders in the k-12 industry in South Carolina and are a great asset to our community. I have found them to be honest, forthright and extremely cooperative in each project I’ve had the opportunity, of which there have been 5, to work together. They understand school sites must remain Instruction, not Construction Sites. They consider student and staff safety as the top priority.
Lexington and Richland County School District 5
The general contractor provided superior work in all areas of the project and provided very good oversight and management of their subcontractors. Work was completed on time and to a standard that did not generate an excessive punch list. During the construction and the punch list EDCON provided remedies for all items in a timely and professional fashion. We are proud of this project and proud to have had the opportunity to work with EDCON.
CITY OF ORANGEBURG
While we had not worked with Edcon in the past, our research and recommendations reported nothing but high marks across the board. Our concerns of whether they could manage and complete multiple jobs and time-sensitive projects were quickly erased as we watched them juggle multiple challenges ranging from weather to logistical obstacles, all of which were handled without incident. We were very pleased – they not only worked seamlessly with our third-party project managers but our multiple projects were completed on time and well within budget. In addition, in light of the complications caused by COVID-19 when the country shutdown in March 2020 which was the last leg of our construction schedules, they were able to help us open 3 facilities for the start of the next school year – a pleasure to work with and very accommodating and would certainly recommend them to others.
Darlington County School District
There is not a better group of people to work with. They are all conscientious of work ethic, quality, and time frame. Thank you, Edcon Employees, for allowing me to continue being a part of your team to complete projects. Anyone considering this group for their project won’t be disappointed.
V's Cleaning Service
We have successfully used Edcon, Inc. on three projects with a guaranteed maximum contract. Edcon. Inc is competitive in pricing but most importantly, they take ownership of the job. They have provided the resources and expertise needed to successfully meet our request on every occasion. Edcon, Inc. truly understands what it takes to maintain a successful relationship.
Edgefield County School District
I found working with Edcon for the renovations of our HVAC system to be well planned and filled with support for our needs. If there was ever a concern, the Edcon team stepped up right away to resolve or support. Edcon team members were always accessible and positive in our interactions. This is a contracting company that I would eagerly embrace working on another project due to how considerate and professional they were from start to finish!
Midway Elementary School
Edcon is a first class company. They have the capacity to lead large projects such as new school construction as well as the expertise to take on challenging projects that involve working on occupied campuses. Edcon is customer-driven as they have always maintained the best interest of Lexington One. Their strong working relationship with the Office of School Facilities is another reason their projects are consistently successful.
Lexington County School District One
Edcon was extremely professional and always helpful in scheduling and coordinating with owner’s contractors during the construction. In my experience, the personnel and staff of Edcon, Inc. have been thorough and responsive during the construction process and during follow up and warranty periods. We look forward to continued successful construction projects completed by Edcon, Inc. I would not hesitate to recommend them on any construction project.
Jumper Carter Sease Architects, P.A.