Cale LaVoie is the Director of Commercial Construction at Valint Construction Services, renowned for his expertise in sustainable building practices. Born on May 29, 1973, in Baxter, Minnesota, Cale grew up with a profound appreciation for nature, which later influenced his professional path. With over two decades in the construction industry, Cale has become a respected leader, especially known for his projects within Native American communities that integrate environmentally conscious designs and technologies. His dedication to sustainable development and community enrichment has earned him numerous accolades. Cale is also deeply committed to mentoring the next generation of construction professionals, emphasizing the importance of balancing economic viability with environmental stewardship.
How did you get started in this business?
I began my career in construction management after completing my studies in Aquatic Biology and Construction Management. My initial interest in the environment naturally led me to focus on sustainable construction practices. My first real job in the industry was as a Jr Project Manager in Minneapolis, where I worked under a seasoned construction manager who really helped shape my understanding of the field.
How do you make money?
Our company generates revenue primarily through construction projects that we manage and execute for clients. This includes commercial, residential, and specialized projects like those for Native American communities, where we incorporate sustainable building practices. We bid on projects, secure contracts, and manage the construction from start to finish.
How long did it take for you to become profitable?
It takes years to establish a solid reputation and become profitable. In the construction industry, trust and proven capability are key, so once we demonstrated our ability to deliver projects successfully and sustainably, we started seeing more consistent profits.
When you were starting out, was there ever a time you doubted it would work?
Certainly, there were times of doubt, especially during the early stages when we were trying to carve out our niche in sustainable construction. The industry is competitive, and initially, it was challenging to convince clients to invest in green technologies and methods.
How did you get your first customer?
Our first major customer came through a referral. Networking played a crucial role in the early days. Our break came from a community leader in a Native American community who appreciated our commitment to sustainable building practices and recommended us for a significant project.
What is one marketing strategy that works well to generate new business?
Educational outreach has been highly effective for us. Hosting workshops and seminars on sustainable construction practices not only positions us as experts in the field but also brings our name to potential clients who are interested in green building.
What is the toughest decision you’ve had to make in the last few months?
Recently, the toughest decision involved choosing whether to expand our operations into new geographic areas amid economic uncertainties. After thorough analysis and projections, we decided to go ahead cautiously, focusing on regions that show a growing interest in sustainable building.
What do you think makes you successful?
I believe what makes me successful is dedication to sustainability and my hands-on approach in every project. My background in both environmental science and construction allows me to bring a unique perspective to the table, ensuring that our projects are both eco-friendly and economically viable.
What has been your most satisfying moment in business?
One of the most satisfying moments was the completion of a large-scale project that not only met all our sustainability goals but also received several awards for green building. Seeing a project come to fruition that will have a long-term positive impact on the environment and the community was incredibly rewarding.
What does the future hold for your business?
The future looks bright; we plan to continue expanding our sustainable construction practices and integrating more advanced technologies like AI and VR into our processes. We also aim to strengthen our educational initiatives to foster a new generation of construction professionals who are equipped with knowledge in sustainability.
What business books have inspired you?
“Building a Sustainable Business: A Guide to Developing a Business Plan for Farms and Rural Businesses” has been a great inspiration. It aligns with my values in sustainability and provides practical advice on creating a business that balances profitability with environmental stewardship.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
I would tell my younger self to stay patient and persistent. The road to establishing a niche in sustainable construction is not quick or easy, but it’s worth the effort. Always stay true to your values, and don’t compromise on what you believe is right.
Are you willing to be a mentor?
Absolutely, I am always open to mentoring young professionals in the industry. Sharing knowledge and guiding the next generation of builders and managers is not just a responsibility but a privilege. I believe mentoring is crucial for the continued growth and sustainability of the construction industry.