Allen got an early start in construction. Allen's, father George Ballew taught him skills and blueprint reading. He worked for his father whenever possible. During holiday vacations and summers he worked for his dad who was a construction superintendent. After working at various trades Allen was promoted to project superintendent at only 22 years old. His first project was a clinical lab renovation at the U.S. Public Health Hospital in Carville, LA. His employer George E. Jensen also was instrumental in providing valuable administrative skills. After a few years in the field he was promoted to Estimator/Project Manager in the Mobile, AL office. In 1982 he left George E. Jensen Contractor's Inc. to join Dynamic Industrial Constructors, Inc. at the Uranium Enrichment Facility in Piketon, OH. There he worked as a Contract Administrator with more than $140 million in government contracts. In 1983 Allen and his wife Donna started the business.

Allen enjoys church, family and scuba diving. Donna and Allen have three children.