About

With a history of success that goes back decades, our company is built on rock-solid values which are the foundation for our success both today and into the future.

How It All Started

Bob Affholder

Robert "Bob" Affholder is a true pioneer in the trenchless technology industry, with a career spanning over 50 years in the underground construction field. His early life lessons learned growing up on a farm in Kansas as one of 11 brothers and sisters taught him the importance of hard work and the joy that comes from working alongside people you care about and respect. These lessons have been the foundation of his successful career, and his list of former co-workers includes some of his closest friends.

Bob's career began in 1958 as a laborer for Armco Industries Metal Products Division. However, his entrepreneurial spirit led him to start his own tunneling and boring business in 1968, Affholder Inc. He dedicated himself to building an organization of highly skilled, honest, and hardworking people who were committed to solving customers' problems. These principles have been the foundation of his 50+ year career and helped shape the trenchless industry as we know it today.

In 1987, Affholder Inc. went public as Insituform Mid-America and later merged to form Insituform Technologies (now Aegion). Bob served as Vice Chairman and member of the board of directors for ten years. He was instrumental in the development of the Insituform process, which revolutionized the trenchless industry.

In 2007, Bob reunited with former Insituform protégés Jerry Shaw and Tom Kalishman at SAK Construction. The company's goal was to return to the original roots of Bob's success - hiring the best talent, creating an environment where people are valued, delivering world-class services, and putting customers first.

Bob's contributions to the trenchless industry have been immense, and his leadership and industry expertise continues to be a valuable asset to Affholder and SAK Construction. As a founding member of both companies, he is proud of their success and the opportunity to help make others successful. With the newly christened Affholder company (formerly the tunneling division of SAK), the company is well-positioned for continued growth and success under the name that has become a legend in the underground construction field. Bob's legacy in the trenchless industry is undeniable, and his impact will continue to be felt for many years to come.

Rebuilding America's Infrastructure One Project at a Time.

Our Story

AFFHOLDER leads the way in delivering exceptional underground solutions for our customers. Since 1958, we have lived by the principles of our founder, Robert "Bob" Affholder - hire the best talent, create an environment where people are valued, deliver world-class services, and put the customer first. With a reputation for delivering top-notch results and a commitment to excellence, we are the go-to choice for demanding customers with the most complex projects. Our innovative approach and commitment to safety have earned us the trust of both the public and private sectors, with successful projects located across the USA. Experience the difference that 65+ years of expertise can make by choosing AFFHOLDER for all your underground construction needs.