Shop Talk : Travis Reed Construction

Shop Talk

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March 5, 2011

Shop Talk : Travis Reed Construction

Travis Reed Construction 360 Jersey Road, Delhi Owner: Travis Reed Established: 2001 Employees: One

Anonymous Daily Star The Daily Star Sun Mar 20, 2011, 09:40 AM EDT

Shop Talk is a weekly column featuring locally owned and operated businesses. This week, we talk to Travis Reed of Travis Reed Construction in Delhi.

How long have you lived in the area?

I have lived here 29 years.

Tell me about your business:

I am a general contractor with experience in all aspects of my field. In this area, I have worked on numerous new builds, home remodels, barns, decks and have recently made the Hamden Church handicapped-accessible. I also have vast experience with finish work.

Describe a typical day in your business:

There are no typical days in my field. I am constantly working on something different each day.

There is the actual work along with meeting clients and writing up estimates, getting materials and the paperwork side of things.

How did you get started in this line of work?

I started working in construction when I was 15 years old. My buddy and I were hired to do work for a local tai chi camp in Andes.

I have stuck with it ever since, and I just continued to gain more and more experience until I decided to start my own company 10 years ago.

Where do you see this business in five years?

In this economy, it is tough to stay busy.

In five years, I would like to have enough work to hire on other workers and stay busy all year long.

Describe a memorable moment in your workplace:

The day I finished my first new build was a proud day for me.

What have you learned from your work?

No matter how big or impossible the task seems, if I work hard, I can accomplish anything.

How do you define success for your business?

If the customer is happy with the job, I have succeeded.

What are some advantages as well as drawbacks of doing business in this area?

An advantage of doing business in this area is that since I grew up here, I know a lot of people that will hire me to work when they need something done. They know me, they know what work I have done, and I am not going to move on, this is my home. A disadvantage is that there is not always work available.

What is the most challenging part of what you do?

Job estimates for remodels can be difficult, because you never know what you'll find during demolition.

The most enjoyable?

I like the change of scenery. Whether it is inside or outside, I am always working someplace new and on something new.

What sets you apart from your competitors?

My attention to detail sets me apart.

What advice would you give to someone trying to enter your field of work?

This is a tough line of work in this economy. You have to be extremely dedicated.

Shop Talk interviews are conducted by Terry Hannum. For information, call The Daily Star at 432-1000, ext. 217, or e-mail news@thedailystar.com.