Success Story…North Central Construction
Gary and Micki Rogers juggled project deadlines, overdue receivables and equipment maintenance issues for eight years. Like many small business owners, the couple knew first hand that the struggles and challenges can be hugely overwhelming. Upon reading an article in a local newspaper, the owners were led to Susan Urbach and the Oklahoma Small Business Development Center.
Susan recognized that North Central Construction in Stillwater was a sound business but needed some direction. She first advised the partners to save money by consolidating their equipment loans. Susan then showed them how to apply for the right kind of loan saving the company $7,500 a month as a result of that initial advice.
At first Gary was skeptical, “I wasn’t sure how a person with absolutely no construction background could help us,” said Rogers. “I thought service was most important, but Susan’s guidance showed us how important it was to manage your business.”
“We make better decisions now,” said Gary.
“Through the years, the OKSBDC’s counseling has enabled us to add new employees, improve cash flow, develop effective accounting procedures, and devise better pricing and marketing strategies,” said Micki, “And we got all that great advice free of charge!”
A family run business, the husband and wife team have also brought in their daughter and son-in-law. The Rogers all agree – having an unbiased, objective advisor can be a real plus. “From time to time we need someone from outside to help. The answer can be right in front of you but so hard to see when you are managing every aspect of the business,” says Gary.
Urbach has watched North Central Construction grow over the last five years, more than doubling their revenue and adding seven new employees to a multi-million dollar business. Have the Rogers outgrown the OKSBDC? “Not a chance,” says Micki. “We expect to sit down with Susan from time to time – we appreciate her feedback.”
Susan counters, “Now it’s time to take the next step and start looking at the future. We want them to continue to be successful.”
