Ferguson Construction dates back more than 100 years and remains one of the largest commercial builders across the Miami Valley. The company, based in the Dayton area, operates four regional offices. Doug Fortkamp, president of Ferguson Construction, shares his construction industry forecast for 2023.
This article was originally posted by the Dayton Business Journal here.
How would you assess 2022 for Ferguson and what are some of the key projects?
Overall, 2022 was a very strong year for Ferguson as we worked our way out of the pandemic slowdown. The unprecedented supply chain delays created unique challenges and opportunities for our team to overcome. In an environment of ever-changing conditions, we were able to collaborate with our clients to develop creative solutions that enabled their vision to move forward. This heightened level of creativity has remained and sparked a wonderful energy within Ferguson. Through it all, we have stayed focused on crafting spaces that enrich lives, enhance workplaces and celebrate communities.
How do you foresee 2023 for the company?
I foresee 2023 as an overall positive year. Although there are multiple factors in the world that we continually monitor, there are plenty of reasons to be optimistic about the overall growth and workforce development in the Miami Valley region. Post-pandemic, we have witnessed our younger personnel approach their careers with a refreshed vigor. It is a positive sign and we look forward to cultivating their growth, both for their personnel development and the success of our company.
What are your biggest challenges in 2023 and how are you addressing them?
Our biggest challenge will be preparing for the retirement of several employees, each with over 30 years of dedicated service. These team members emulate Ferguson’s core values through their performance and set a positive example for others. Ferguson has been working diligently to grow and develop other team members to fill these future vacancies. Many have embraced the opportunity to take on new and expanded roles. As someone who has also grown professionally through this industry, I am proud of these young leaders and their passion for building on the foundation set by their predecessors.
What are you most optimistic about in the New Year?
I am most optimistic about the continued development of our next generation. As Ferguson maneuvered through the pandemic, we challenged our team members to bring forth new and creative ways to serve our clients. Through this, we have witnessed many team members, in all facets of the company, rise to the occasion. We continue to implement these ideas and are excited about how new forms of technology, communication, and team sharing can elevate our performance for each other and our clients.
What are some of your company’s initiatives or projects planned for 2023?
We are excited about the projects we are working on that will positively affect the lives of many within the Dayton community. Within Ferguson, one of our largest initiatives is the relocation of our Dayton office to Ludlow Avenue in the spring. This facility is designed to foster continued growth within this region and provide an open, collaborative environment for our clients, subcontractors, and team members.