Our History

GMI Contractors, Inc. was founded June 23, 1994 by Stephen Gilchrist and James McDonald, and with only 5 employees they began to make a mark in the Architectural Glazing Industry. GMI has since made significant contributions to the fabric of the Philadelphia Skyline and neighboring communities that has improved and grown infrastructure to support its growing and diverse population. Whether New Construction or Retro-fit to Historic Renovation, GMI has a proven track record for excellence.

Stephen and James began their careers in the Apprenticeship Program for District Council 21, The International Union of Painters and Allied Trades. As they made their way through the Apprenticeship Program they both realized very quickly that their vision and entrepreneurship would drive them to start their own business and in only 1 year after graduating, GMI Contractors, Inc. became a reality. Steve and Jim have taken a hands on approach with their employees and clients delivering quality and value on all of their projects.

GMI was one of the first local glazing contractors to successfully complete a unitized curtainwall system at the Science and Education Center at Temple University for Turner Construction. GMI also took part in the 21st Century Libraries Initiative, installing glass facades at the Tacony and Logan branches of the Philadelphia Free Library. The company’s savviness with design and understanding the intricacies of many systems have earned them notable projects. GMI has been part of award-winning projects and teams recognized with sustainability, design, and construction honors. The company is proud to have contributed to the Philadelphia skyline

Today, they are joined by third owner Michael Lopuszanski. Everyone at GMI works equally hard to deliver the best customer service and project results. GMI has grown into a multi-million dollar organization that works hand in hand with Architects, Owners, Developers, Construction Managers, and General Contractors to deliver turnkey glass and glazing solutions. We have earned our reputation of quality design and construction through hard work, knowledge and expertise.

Notable Project

GMI has been involved in significant projects across the region, annually completing 5-10 major works. Recent work includes the Kimpton Hotel Monaco in Old City, Courtyard by Marriott at the Navy Yard, Piazza at Northern Liberties, Dalian on the Park, Germantown Academy, 500 Walnut, and University Square. The multi-family BRIDGE development won an AIA NY Design Award of Merit in Sustainability and a Green Building United Groundbreaker Award for design-build firm Gluck+. Currently, GMI is working on a 47-story high-rise at Broad and Spruce.

Industry Leadership

GMI contributes to industry leadership through membership in the Architectural Glass & Metal Association (AGMA), Building Owners & Managers Association International (BOMA), the Finishing Trades Institute of the Mid-Atlantic, and District Council 21. President Stephen Gilchrist serves on a labor/management committee dedicated to furthering the union glazing industry in the Philadelphia and South Jersey region.

Markets:

  • Schools & Universities
  • Multi-Family Residential
  • Hospitals & Healthcare
  • Institutional
  • Commercial
  • Historic Replacement

Services:

  • Pre-Construction Design & Consultation
  • Budgeting & Value Engineering
  • Furnishing & Installation of All Glazing
  • Historic Window Replacement
  • High-Rise Glazing Specialists
  • Interior Fit-Outs

Our People

Stephen Gilchrist: President & CEO – 215-781-8991 X 301
sgilchrist@gmicontractors.com

James McDonald: Vice President & CEO – 215-781-8991 X 302
jmcdonald@gmicontractors.com

Mike Lopuszanski: Sr. Project Manager & CEO – 215-781-8991 X 307

mike@gmicontractors.com

Heather Marseglia: Controller – 215-781-8991 X 303
hmarseglia@gmicontractors.com

Liz Lopuszanski: Estimating – 215-781-8991 X 304
liz@gmicontractors.com

Dirk Hodorowski: Estimating –215-781-8991 X 305
dirk@gmicontractors.com