As George Brown College enters November, we will be showcasing amazing entrepreneurs to celebrate Global Entrepreneurship Week, November 18 – 24, 2019.
Ryan is a dynamic entrepreneur who turned his passion into a business by creating a brand that has garnered respect within the industry.
Ground Up Constructing is a full-service contracting firm that provides an innovative and professional approach to planning, designing and building residential or commercial spaces across the Greater Toronto Area. From bathrooms, basements, kitchens to full home renovations, Ground Up Constructing is there to help. The team of experts at Ground Up Constructing have completed hundreds of projects ranging from home to commercial renovations. Their diverse portfolio of projects and years of experience are strengthened by a solid reputation for quality workmanship, reliability, and competitive pricing. Ryan and his team are equipped and prepared to transform any space.
Ryan always knew he wanted to work with his hands. As a teenager, residential construction and finish carpentry became an integral part of Ryan’s life. At 16 years old, Ryan became heavily involved in carpentry and cabinet making by completing projects for friends and family. His successful, initial projects was partly due to the head start he received;being mentored by his father. Ryan quickly learned aspects of business processes and at just 20 years old, he managed the renovation and custom carpentry of a new bedroom. Ryan’s meticulous work ethic has produced satisfied customers and solid business relationships.
Ryan’s career started when he participated in a cooperative education placement within a cabinet shop in grade 10. He continued to work part-time and during summers in the shop until he graduated college. After college Ryan was hired as a carpenter working for a major construction company that specialized in residential and commercial construction. Again, Ryan was quickly recognized for his expertise and took on additional responsibilities. He was tasked with managing multiple projects, sales, and coordinating laborers. The projects were located all over Toronto and the GTA.
Through years of strategic and dedicated learning within the industry, Ryan had gained enough experience to become an entrepreneur. Ryan has used his decades of experience and expertise from a wide range of building construction projects to make his clients happy and excited to work with him. Ground Up Constructing’s long list of happy clients is a testament to Ryan’s professional approach to construction and dedication to customer service.
So we asked Ryan to share with us his experience that might help motivate others to consider life as a business owner.
Ryan, what’s your educational background?
I graduated from the Building Renovation Technology program at George Brown College. Once I completed college I pursued entry-level employment within construction.
What made you want to become an entrepreneur?
I have always wanted to be the decision maker, creating opportunities for myself and others and focusing on delivering quality and service to customers. It was important for me to create a safe-space for creativity, freedom and accountability. Consequently, those qualities became pillars of success for me. The lifestyle I wanted to achieve was more than a nine to five. There’s much more flexibility to the entrepreneurial lifestyle than traditional corporate life permits. It is hard work, but with that effort arises the capability to shape your life how you see fit.
Why did you create Ground Up Constructing?
Toronto has thousands of old homes. I saw potential to succeed in the residential renovation market, bringing them back to life with love and respect for their heritage and architectural integrity. I am passionate about learning, and learning is a life-long experience so I wanted to create a company where I can constantly sharpen my skills while being at the forefront of construction innovation. Creating Ground Up Constructing provides me with the ability to continuously seek more knowledge through formal education and on-the-job discoveries.
What success have you enjoyed so far?
I’ve managed to build a steady living, while growing a business, and earning respect from peers within the industry for my brand, along with the gratitude and satisfaction customers give Ground Up Constructing. Through years of sustainability and growth I have curated strong relationships with clients and co-workers.
What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs?
I would strongly recommend working for a company to learn all the subtleties of operating a business.
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