In 1976, our founder Richard M. Piper, began part-time night and weekend operations as Site Systems Construction out of his home in Rumney, New Hampshire. Within a few years, armed with an Allis-Chalmers backhoe/loader and 1972 Mack dump truck, he transitioned the business into a full-time operation designing and installing septic systems and eventually expanding to install utilities for what was then New England Telephone Company.

By the early eighties Dick sought to solidly establish himself in the construction industry and relocated the business to Plymouth, New Hampshire.  By the end of 1982 he had incorporated his business as R.M. Piper, Inc. and became qualified to bid on State projects. The company and its growing crew were focused on public utilities, water, sewer and telephone construction.

It was in 1986 that a young laborer, soon turned grade-man, John Bousquet, was hired and he quickly proved himself to be a fast learner with a lot of potential. He worked his way through the ranks, and by the early 90s had taken a role as estimator where he embraced the challenge of expanding the scope of work performed by R.M. Piper, Inc. and the bridge division was founded. In recognition of his talents and dedication to his company, Dick promoted John to Vice President in 1996.

The 90s were a period of growth and expansion for the company, which was challenging during this very competitive time period. The sustaining factor for R.M. Piper, Inc. was the willingness and desire to increase the scope of their projects to include heavy construction such as roads, bridges and dams. The company moved towards West Plymouth in 1996 and continues to run all operations from its Smith Bridge Road location.

In 1992 Dick’s daughter, Karen, spent her first summer in the office on South Main Street, and by 1994 was the full-time office manager and bookkeeper while pursuing her second college degree. She unwittingly discovered true enthusiasm for the industry and in 1997 embraced the opportunity to take charge of business operations as the Corporate Administrator.  

As we entered the new millennium, Dick assessed the past successes and future direction of his company and in 2005 he extended ownership in R.M. Piper, Inc. to these two key-partners to safeguard the successful continuation of the operation for decades to come.

In the years since, Dick, John and Karen have focused their efforts on building what started as a “one-man-band” back in the seventies, into the reputable, productive and skillful operation it is today. Having successfully completed hundreds of construction contracts and employing countless individuals over the years R.M. Piper, Inc. has established a prominent foothold in New Hampshire’s construction industry.

Looking forward, it is their perpetual commitment to the trade and willingness to embrace this evolving industry and its corresponding challenges that will be the fundamental catalyst for future success.