With 25 years of industry knowledge, Johnnie Eichor has started Prime Demolition, offering industrial demolition, scrap management, asset recovery and laydown yard cleanup to the Gulf Coast and beyond. Eichor has held nearly every position in the demolition industry, working on several of the largest demolition projects in the past 20 years.
BIC Magazine recently visited with Eichor to learn more about opening Prime Demolition, sharing his knowledge and experience with others, and how the company will move the demolition industry forward.
Q: What led you to start Prime Demolition?
A: In November 2014, I started Prime Demolition, and it was the next step forward for me. Being in the industrial demolition industry for 25 years and working with some of the top companies, I moved through the ranks and the next logical step forward for me was to start up a company. With all the knowledge I possess, the best thing I could do is give it back to the industry.
Q: What has been the most pivotal moment of your career?
A: It seems every step along the way has been a pivotal moment in my career, because I needed all those steps to form Prime Demolition. I have done everything from working the torch, performing structural preparation, working the equipment, to being in management. Now, this chapter with Prime Demolition seems to be the peak of the mountain. Just like I rose through the ranks of the industry, I expect Prime Demolition to rise to the top of the industry.
Q: What is your best management tactic?
A: Over the years, my best management tactic has been to empower employees. I try to teach them the policies, procedures and rules, and then let them take that and run with it. I’ve found if you empower your workers, it promotes intervention. It makes them want to speak up and create a sense of ownership. It’s also equally important to continuously give them the right training and support to grow.
I believe letting the employees make decisions that affect the company will give them a sense of ownership with a strong team mentality. Working with your people and teaching them all aspects of the business will give them a greater appreciation and understanding of their value. I personally hire and interview everyone who joins the Prime Demolition team.
Q: What is the biggest news at Prime Demolition right now?
A: We are looking at a substantial amount of work coming to the Gulf Coast in the near future. I feel very strongly Prime Demolition is going to get a good percentage of that demolition work. The company is up and running, and we’re fixing to flex our muscles. Prime Demolition will be on the forefront by offering the latest technology, and we have great people. We have been active with bidding on many different projects throughout the U.S. while pursuing additional jobs in refineries, chemical plants, power plants, pumping stations and terminal facilities.
Q: Are the ideals and culture of your company what you initially envisioned?
A: Yes, I want to share my knowledge and experience with others in the industry, whether it’s with customers or our internal employees. For example, using the right machine for the job eliminates downtime and maintenance cost. This will reduce our risk man-hours and save our customers time and money.
For more information, visit www.primedemolition.net or call (713) 997-9233.