Today we’d like to introduce you to Jermel Lewis.
Hi Jermel, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My journey to founding Oak City Contracting is a tale of resilience, service, and transformation. As a first-generation American born in Springfield, Massachusetts, and raised in Northwest Georgia, my roots are deeply embedded in my Jamaican parents’ rich culture and resilient spirit. Coming from a large, close-knit family with humble beginnings, I learned early on the value of hard work, community, and the pursuit of dreams against all odds. Being the first in my family to graduate high school and college represents more than personal milestones; it signifies breaking barriers and setting new benchmarks for my family. My college years were a time of growth and challenge, balancing my studies with work in residential and commercial construction, all while welcoming my daughter into the world. Her birth marked a new chapter in my life, fueling my decision to move to North Carolina and delve deeper into my career.
Two days post-graduation, I arrived in Raleigh, North Carolina, eager to carve out a future for myself and my daughter. Here, I joined the roofing industry, starting from the ground up with door-to-door sales. This role was more than a job; it was a mission to serve and solve a significant problem affecting many homeowners. My time at MRN Contracting was instrumental, offering me a panoramic view of the industry’s challenges, particularly the stark disconnect between homeowners and contractors. I found a landscape marred by transactional relationships, devoid of genuine connection and understanding.
The idea to start Oak City Contracting was seeded by the community I aimed to serve. Encouraged by a client who saw the potential in my passion and approach, I leaped in October 2020—amidst the throes of the COVID-19 pandemic. This timing presented its unique challenges and offered a chance to rethink and reshape how we connect with and serve our clients.
Oak City Contracting was founded on the principle that every project is an opportunity to empower and positively impact a homeowner’s life. Our approach goes beyond roofing; it’s about building lasting relationships based on trust, integrity, and exceptional service. Despite the hurdles, we remain committed to growing and improving year over year, driven by the belief that our work can improve lives.
Today, as I reflect on my journey to becoming a business owner in Raleigh, I see a path defined by relentless perseverance, a dedication to service, and a deep commitment to my family and community. My story is a testament to the idea that great things can grow from humble beginnings. As I look to the future, I am excited about the opportunities to impact our community further, provide unparalleled service, and continue breaking new ground in the roofing industry.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The process of building our business has been filled with various challenges. Specifically, we faced operational issues that prompted us to take a step back and reassess our approach—ensuring that our processes aligned with our ambition to provide high-quality service and efficiency was essential. This required us to undertake a thorough strategic reassessment.
The challenge of cash flow is a widespread issue that many businesses encounter. Our organization was not immune to this challenge, which tested our resilience and resourcefulness. In response, we innovated our approach to managing our resources and successfully overcame the financial pressures we faced. This experience taught us the importance of effective resource management in achieving our goals and helped us develop a more robust, sustainable business model.
Knowing that 40% of businesses only survive up to their first three years is scary. However, this statistic highlights the importance of perseverance and strategic planning. Despite facing various challenges, we remained committed to overcoming them. We tackled each obstacle with determination and focus, which helped us navigate the common pitfalls that often trap new ventures. These efforts not only strengthened our foundation but also led to our growth. This journey has showcased our resilience and determination to succeed where others find difficulties, demonstrating our steadfast resolve to build a thriving business against the odds.
I appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Oak City Contracting?
Oak City Contracting is a team of highly dedicated professionals committed to protecting homes through top-quality roofing services. Our top priorities are our clients’ needs and homes’ safety, and we always strive to provide the best customer care and artistry. We offer a 10-year warranty on all roof replacements to guarantee our clients’ satisfaction. We stand out for our extensive expertise in both residential and commercial roofing. We provide many solutions, including leak repairs, storm damage restoration, and assistance with aging roofs. We use only the highest quality materials to repair and fortify roofs for years to come. Our approach is characterized by expert knowledge, free inspections, and a customer-centric philosophy, ensuring satisfaction and transparency throughout roofing. At Oak City Contracting, we value community and prioritize relationship-building with our clients. Our services are not merely transactional; we aim to provide peace of mind and lasting solutions for every client we serve. Oak City Contracting offers secure, stunning, and sustainable roofing solutions if you’re in the Raleigh, Triangle, or Sandhills areas of North Carolina. From the initial free inspection to the tailored proposal and project completion, we are dedicated to excellence and customer satisfaction, making us the top choice for all your roofing needs.
Pricing:
- Free Roof Inspections
Contact Info:
- Website: www.oakcitycontracting.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oakcitycontracting/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Oak-City-Contracting-100069439021192/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/oak-city-contracting
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/oak-city-contracting-concepts-pittsboro
