In 2008, while I was working for a general contractor, I started to think about next steps in my career. Although I enjoyed working on the contracting side of the commercial real estate business, I was looking for a new challenge. The engineer in me decided getting more involved with projects during the pre-construction phase would be extremely rewarding, as it lends itself to explore more creative opportunities.
After 16 years of working as an estimator and project manager for three Philadelphia area based general contractors, I decided to focus on assisting clients as an owner’s representative. I was fortunate enough to be exposed to multiple commercial verticals within the industry. With this experience, it shouldn’t be that difficult to get going, right? Well, not really.
Unfortunately, the idea came to me in the beginning of the great recession. Resumes were sent, companies were not hiring. I knew what I wanted, but I didn’t give up. Much of my persistence and inspiration came from the birth of my beautiful daughter, Brooke, born in early 2009. As I was cherishing my time with her, I began to think about starting my own firm. As Brooke began to crawl, walk, and talk, she gave me the confidence to start fresh. Even though things would probably begin slowly, there’s nothing wrong with taking baby steps as you start something new.
In April of 2010, The FGX Group, LLC was born.
I quickly learned many hours of networking would be required to establish the relationships needed to generate business. More importantly, I learned it’s not about what others can give you, but how you can help others. In order to be successful within any industry, helping others is a key ingredient – it’s that simple. And let’s face it, it feels good to help other people, doesn’t it?
Throughout the last decade, The FGX Group has worked with many clients, architects, engineers, consultants, testing/inspection companies, contractors, furniture dealers, signage vendors, security firms, phone/data vendors, and relocation companies, just to name a few. We have and will continue to create fantastic relationships with all of our project team members. There are too many to thank individually, but you know who you are. We thank everyone for their help in producing many successful projects throughout the last 10 years and look forward to continuing to do so for many more.
Our success is credited with identifying three key qualities we look for in business partners – like, trust, and integrity. By focusing on those qualities, solid, lasting relationships have been formed. We can honestly say many of the friendships developed will be for life.
In addition to owner’s representation/project management, we have also added related commercial real estate services with the help of our many business partners:
1) Cost Estimating Services for Design Firms
2) Onsite Construction Inspection Services for Lenders
3) Property Condition Assessments (PCA’s)
4) Real Estate Expert Witness Testimonies
I appreciate everyone who has helped and partnered with The FGX Group along the way. Under these unusual and difficult circumstances, I hope everyone is staying safe, and I can’t wait to eventually celebrate this milestone with all of you. I look forward to working on more fun and successful projects in the future, and truly thank you for your loyalty and friendship.
Cheers to 10 more!
