Michael Martin is a seasoned construction professional with over 27 years of experience in the industry. Born and raised in Massena, New York, he discovered his passion for building early on, which led him to pursue a degree in electrical construction and maintenance at Canton Tech. In 1998, Michael relocated to Albany, NY, where he honed his skills with companies like BBL Construction and Jackson Demolition. In 2019, he founded MRM Construction Services, LLC, a residential remodeling company focused on quality craftsmanship, innovation, and customer satisfaction.
Under Michael’s leadership, MRM Construction has become known for integrating sustainable building practices and cutting-edge technologies like smart home systems into their projects. His commitment to staying ahead of industry trends while maintaining a personal connection with clients has earned him a strong reputation in the field.
Outside of work, Michael is a devoted father to his two daughters, Jessica and Miranda, and enjoys outdoor activities such as hockey, hunting, snowmobiling, and boating. His dedication to both his family and his craft reflects his values of hard work, integrity, and a passion for excellence.
What led you to pursue a career in construction?
I’ve always had a love for building things and working with my hands. Growing up, I was fascinated by how things were put together, from homes to machinery. That curiosity turned into a career when I decided to study electrical construction and maintenance at Canton Tech. The satisfaction of seeing a project come to life from the ground up is what drew me into this field, and it’s what keeps me motivated to this day.
What has been the most rewarding part of running your own construction company?
The most rewarding part is definitely the relationships I’ve built with clients. There’s something special about turning someone’s vision into reality, and the trust they place in me to make that happen is something I don’t take lightly. Seeing a client’s reaction when they walk into their newly remodeled home makes all the hard work worth it.
How do you approach problem-solving on the job?
In construction, you have to expect the unexpected. I always try to stay proactive by anticipating potential issues during the planning phase. When problems do arise, my approach is to stay calm, evaluate all the options, and get input from my team. Clear communication and having a solid plan B are key.
What are some current trends in home remodeling that you’re excited about?
I’m really excited about the integration of smart home technologies and sustainable materials. Homeowners are looking for energy efficiency and convenience, so we’re incorporating things like smart thermostats, lighting systems, and advanced insulation. The push for green building practices, like using reclaimed wood and eco-friendly materials, is something I’m passionate about as well.
What’s one of the biggest challenges you’ve faced in your career?
One of the biggest challenges has been managing growth. When you start out, you’re doing everything yourself, but as the business grows, you have to learn how to delegate and trust your team to handle different aspects of the job. It’s a tough transition, but building a solid, reliable team has been essential for MRM Construction’s success.
How do you ensure a project stays on time and within budget?
It all comes down to planning and communication. We set clear timelines and budgets from the start, and I’m constantly checking in with my team to make sure we’re hitting those benchmarks. I also believe in being transparent with clients about any unexpected changes or additional costs, so they’re always in the loop.
What role does client input play in your projects?
Client input is everything. At the end of the day, it’s their home, and I want to make sure we’re delivering exactly what they envision. I spend a lot of time up front talking with clients about their needs, preferences, and budget, and I keep them involved throughout the process. It’s all about collaboration.
How do you stay motivated in such a demanding industry?
For me, motivation comes from the end result. There’s nothing like stepping back at the end of a project and seeing the transformation. Plus, knowing that we’re improving someone’s living space—making it more functional, beautiful, or energy-efficient—gives me a lot of pride. That, and I genuinely enjoy the work. No two projects are the same, so there’s always a new challenge to tackle.
What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned as a business owner?
Patience and flexibility are key. In construction, things don’t always go according to plan. Whether it’s a supply delay, weather issues, or something unexpected on-site, you have to be adaptable. I’ve learned to keep a level head and approach every challenge as an opportunity to find a solution.
What do you see as the future of residential construction?
I think the future is going to be all about sustainability and technology. We’re already seeing a big shift towards energy-efficient homes, and I think that’s only going to grow. Smart home technology will continue to evolve, making homes more connected and easier to manage. I’m also excited about advancements in construction methods, like 3D printing and modular building, which could make homebuilding faster and more affordable.