Alabama Construction News is the states only bimonthly magazine dedicated to the commercial construction industry.
Issue link: http://acn.epubxp.com/i/795144
That "small idea" quickly boomed into a company that 20 years later has completed more than 400 projects totaling over $100 million in masonry contracts. The company also boasts a total construction project value at over $1 billion. And it all started out—and continues to be built upon three simple strategic philosophies: partner with a core group of clients, create an administrative operating system that is replicated and refined and follow the motto, which is plan your work and work your plan. "Gene instilled that in us, and I feel that this idea is a big reason behind our success," said Watts, the company's president. "We approach everything with this motto. When we generate an estimate or install masonry on any project, we put together a plan for that project to be successful, and then we implement that plan." While Borgosz left the company six years ago to pursue other career opportunities, Watts and company Vice President Eric Hicks were committed in continuing the traditions already established. In fact, company leaders had to put a strategy into action to get through the economic recession that started in 2008. "When the recession hit and times got tough economically, we had to create a strategy to get through it," Watts said. "We made the decision to focus our efforts on university type projects, and in the process we found a niche that really helped us survive through the tough economic times our industry experienced." The strategic decision to pursue collegiate projects not only helped the company survive, but also thrive. Selective Masonry has performed work for a number of universities, including the University of Alabama, Auburn University, Samford University, Mississippi State University, and the University of Mississippi. "Some when gene borgosz and jonathan watts started selective masonry in 1997, the idea was to establish a small commercial masonry company. of the larger projects we've done at schools like Auburn and Alabama have really helped define us as a company," Watts said. "Working for universities is very demanding, quality standards have to be very high and following the schedule is vitally important. By completing these projects successfully, we've really been able to set ourselves apart from our competition." Selective Masonry has also set itself apart from its competition by staying to true its name and focusing on a select group of clients. "That was always our original intent and part of how we chose a company name," Watts added. "While we, of course, want to develop new customer relationships, we focus on the core group of clients that have been with us from the beginning. We have developed some great relationships with our customers, and when they call and need our help, we are going to do everything we can to help them." That commitment to its customers and drive to always provide the best quality possible has driven Selective Masonry's leaders for 20 years, and it will continue to be the driving force for the future. "Our reputation means a lot to us, and we believe that you are only as good as your last project," Watts said. "We want to continue being proactive, not reactive. We want to stay ahead of the curve and continue making smart decisions so the company will continue to be successful." "...we put together a plan for that project to be successful, and then we implement that plan." 43 JAN-MAR 2017 AL CONSTRUCTION NEWS