Joey McWilliams, senior vice president of Gulf Coast Operations for Summit Industrial Construction, has more than 37 years of professional experience in heavy industrial construction, maintenance and turnarounds. He is responsible for all sales and operational activities for Summit’s new Houston office, which is looking to expand the company’s profile in the Gulf Coast region.
BIC Magazine recently visited with McWilliams to learn more about him, his experience in the industry and his management tactics in establishing the company’s new office.
Q: What led to your position at Summit Industrial Construction?
A: My decision to join Summit was made while discussing the vision and business ethics with Chairman Jim Watson and President Jeff Johnson. They have a clear understanding of the market, eagerness to take on challenging projects and, most of all, investing in the growth of the company. I have been very fortunate to be part of some major companies and work with some of the best people in the industry in my 37 years on the Gulf Coast, but Jim and Jeff made a solid impact and it was good to hear the clear direction coming from the owners. They explained the Summit values; we’re the best at what we do and we treat everyone with honor and respect.
Q: What is the most important part of your position?
A: “Grow our people and grow our workload.” Represent Summit from all aspects as we grow in the Gulf Coast region, with a major emphasis on business development and developing key accounts. Building a new office requires recruiting and developing the “best of the best” in our industry, including best practices.
Q: Are you looking to grow in new markets or expand in current ones?
A: Absolutely, this was a key reason for my recent move to Summit. Summit has been predominately in the Atlanta geographical area and working in other states. Summit is licensed in over 40 states and looking to grow in both new and current markets. We opened the office in Houston to grow these markets in the hydrocarbons, power and chemical areas. Summit is committed and open to acquisition and mergers to support and expedite this growth. We’re hoping to grow our team as we grow our workload.
Q: What’s the most important thing a person should know before taking a career path similar to yours?
A: Like what you’re doing and get involved. Through the years, it has allowed me to learn the technical and credibility side of the industry. I have learned some hard lessons and made some career changes that have dictated my career direction, but I would not hesitate in starting the journey again. In the construction and maintenance work force, it’s one big family and I have the highest respect for the industry and what it has provided to me and my family through the years. Someone new getting into the industry, I would tell to get involved and be a participant in the local organizations in the industry — this is a great way to meet your fellow workers as well.
Q: What is your best management tactic?
A: You build on relationships. That’s what the industry is about — not only clients but employees as well. You build it on core values and culture — treat everyone with honor, dignity and respect. The employees are the key; without a strong team behind you there would not be a Summit. I think one of my best traits is I try to build the best team behind me with the best people who can support me. Build an organization with good relationships, setting clear objectives, motivating and communicating effectively with your team.
For more information, visit www.summit.us or call (281) 941-4541.
