There is something to be said for the simple things in life. For Tyler Construction Group, simple yet intrinsic philosophies lead the way and are the pillars of the company’s success.
At Tyler Construction, each party is considered on an equal playing field throughout the construction process, from contractors to subcontractors and clients. The company prides itself on its ability to present viable solutions to any challenge that may arise during a project.
Founded by Walter S. Tyler in 1979, the company is headquartered in Columbia, South Carolina with “one-man” locations in Greenville, piloted by Vice President Greg Tyler, and another in North Augusta. Tyler Construction does, however, work throughout the state and into North Carolina, and Georgia.
Tyler Construction as recently as June of 2008 was known as Tyler Construction Company. Walter wanted to pass the company on to his two sons, Greg and Charles Tyler, and found that it was easier to start a new corporation than to sell it to them. Though Walt is still involved, Charles is currently serving as the company’s president and has been in the industry for 23 years.
With 50 employees and annual revenue of approximately $30 million, Tyler Construction serves the commercial and government sectors and has a unique niche: hard wood work for both public and private projects. Tyler also offers preconstruction services, budget estimates, scheduling, restoration and new construction services.
The company has a simple but effective approach to productivity: “hire motivated people,” says Charles. It does help, though, that Tyler is family-run and three of its project managers are family members. Tyler Construction does rely on subcontractors for all of its trades, making management of this aspect of each project “essential” for success.
For its in house employees, Tyler makes sure they are well-trained. The company takes advantage of its membership with Associated General Contractors (AGC) and partakes in its OSHA training classes. Tyler superintendents have completed their 30-hour training and Tyler also has a certified trainer in house.
Another important and yet simply philosophy that helps the company stays well-revered in its industry: “Keep them happy. You are only remembered by your last job,” says Charles when asked about customer service.
This coupled with the company’s dedication to partner with quality sub contractors is what ensures quality customer service for Tyler’s clients.
Marketing is completed in those sometimes forgotten resources, thanks to the advent of the Internet, such as phone book ads and local stadium bulletins as well as maintenance of the company’s Web site.
From Schools to the Government
A recent restoration project was completed for the Dent Middle School, located just outside Columbia in the Richland School District Two. Originally constructed in 1922, this is the oldest school in the district and began as just a two-teacher school. Tyler, acting as general contractor, completed the historic renovation of the school’s campus which is now the pride of the district. With five buildings totaling 57,000 square feet, new sidewalks, barricades, construction fencing, and a new foundation for an ETV tower were just some aspects of this project.
Tyler most recently started an upgrade project for Spring Valley High School’s football stadium. The school has invested about $7 million in the project to complete fancy brick work, new ticket booths, canteens, track restoration, and seating.
The company is also in the completion stages for another gymnasium and performing arts center project and performing arts center for C.A. Johnson Preparatory Academy.
One of Tyler’s recent government projects involved construction of a new Army Reserve Center at Fort Jackson in Columbia, South Carolina. “The Army is reorganizing and consolidating into four regions across the country,” says Charles. Tyler completed the design and construction phases of the 74,000-square-foot project.
Willing and able to follow some promising government jobs, Tyler recently opened its office in North Augusta. The company has also recently been pre-qualified to be on the team for work at the Savannah River Site. The various projects include the construction of a new nuclear facility that has an impressive $1 billion-plus budget, and will involve nuclear grade weapons being converted to make fuel for commercial nuclear reactors.
The Future and Guiding Philosophies
When asked about the future Charles replies evenly, “Steady growth is all we have ever done. We will try to hire a few new motivated people each year and watch our bottom line go up a little.”
Pressed further about his major concerns for the business, Charles calm response is: “I live by the golden rule,” referring to that religious theory which elevates the importance of reciprocity in each and every action. Guided and grounded in this belief, Charles is optimistic for Tyler Construction, even in the midst of the current economic decline. Given the company’s history and direction one can’t help feeling the optimism is well warranted.