Jayme Massa

From Family Business to Industry Leadership

Jayme Massa began his career with Centennial Contractors at just 14 years old, working for his father in the company yard while later continuing to work there as a student at Black Hawk College.

In 1994, Jayme earned an Associate in Arts degree before transferring to Illinois State University, where he completed a bachelor’s degree in accounting in 1996.

After graduating, Jayme returned full-time to Centennial Contractors and steadily worked his way through the company’s leadership ranks. When he joined the business full-time in 1996, Centennial employed approximately 13 field employees. Under his leadership as president, the company has grown to nearly 80 employees and earned recognition throughout the construction industry for its professionalism, quality work, and community involvement.

Investing in Workforce Development

Jayme has dedicated significant time and expertise to helping strengthen workforce training opportunities throughout the region.

He serves on the Black Hawk College Highway Construction Careers Training Program Advisory Board and played a key role in helping launch the HCCTP program after the college received grant funding. For more than a decade, Jayme has partnered closely with the college to help students gain hands-on industry experience and access to essential training resources.

His support has included helping determine the equipment and tools needed for the program, securing discounted materials, assisting with facility needs, and helping establish the HCCTP shop in one of his buildings. He also upgraded electrical infrastructure to ensure the facility could properly support the program’s operations.

Building Stronger Communities

Beyond his professional work, Jayme has consistently supported charitable organizations, education initiatives, and industry advancement efforts across the Quad Cities.

He has served on the Illini Hospital Board, chaired the Local 18 Cement Masons apprenticeship training program, and contributed to numerous community and school initiatives, including activities supporting Alleman Catholic High School.

Jayme also serves on the board of Industry Advancement for Union Construction and was a founding member of QC Build, helping promote careers and opportunities within the skilled trades.

In addition, he has supported Make-A-Wish Foundation fundraising activities and community events, including the Walk-a-Thon and family sponsorship initiatives, continuing his longstanding commitment to helping others and strengthening the community.