Walk into our building and look at the 1979 donor plaque, and you will see a list of names that built this state. One name in particular stands out. It is notable not just for its longevity, but because it is quite literally the physical foundation of our landscape: Dolese Bros. Co.

Founded in 1902, Dolese is one of Oklahoma’s most enduring institutions. What started as a modest operation hauling crushed limestone has evolved into the state’s backbone for concrete, asphalt, and construction materials. If you have driven on an Oklahoma highway, walked through a local school, or crossed a bridge in this state, you have likely stood on Dolese’s work.

By the time the Oklahoma Engineering Foundation was establishing a permanent home for the profession in 1979, Dolese was already a household name in the industry. Their $1,000 contribution back then was a significant gesture. It was not just a donation; it was a vote of confidence in the future of Oklahoma engineering. They understood that the materials are only as good as the minds that design their use.

The partnership between a materials giant like Dolese and the engineering community is a perfect match. Every project is a collaboration between design and execution. By supporting a dedicated space for engineers to gather, Dolese was not just investing in a building. They were investing in the collective brainpower that would continue to shape our skylines.

Nearly 50 years later, Dolese remains a constant in an ever-changing industry. Their name on that original plaque serves as a reminder that while technology and markets shift, the need for rock-solid infrastructure never does. As we celebrate our 50th anniversary, we are proud to look back at the foundations Dolese helped us pour, both in concrete and in community.