Brenton Giliam, Tommy Hopp, and Erik Wilcox, co-owners of FWD Construction and Deckorators® Certified Elite based in Anchorage, Alaska, discuss their journey in deck building and their use of Deckorators products.
Q: Why specialize in decks specifically?
A: TOMMY & BRENTON: We specialize in decks for several reasons. First, decks are unique, as they represent the largest outdoor project for homeowners. They offer an exciting space for entertainment and family gatherings, something people plan for extensively. Deck building is also relatively simple to grasp, making it an accessible specialization. Moreover, we find immense joy in building decks, considering them the most enjoyable construction option. In Alaska, it's essential to work outdoors during the summer, making deck construction a perfect fit for our business.
From a business perspective, specializing in decks allows us to excel in one area rather than spreading ourselves thin across various construction types. We aim to be the best at what we do, and we believe we've achieved that status in deck building in Alaska. Our goal is to extend our expertise to the lower 48 states and continue delivering exceptional work there.
Q: How did you end up using Deckorators for the first time and partnering with the company?
A: TOMMY, BRENTON & ERIK: We discovered Deckorators through social media and influencers within the construction industry. Observing experienced contractors using this product on platforms like Instagram and YouTube piqued our interest. Upon further investigation, we found that Deckorators offered numerous benefits, such as minimal imperfections, excellent texture, color options and suitability for various climates. The quality of the product and the positive experiences of using it encouraged us to give it a try.
Our initial experience with Deckorators Voyage decking left a lasting impression. The straightness and overall quality of the boards were impressive. We saw Deckorators as a high-end product and took great care in its installation, ensuring that screws were perfectly aligned and color-matched. As a result, we decided to exclusively use Deckorators Voyage Decking for our high-end decks, providing our clients with a superior product that was easier to install and offered better quality. Our decision was influenced by the product's attributes and our commitment to delivering the best to our clients.
Q: What does the future of FWD look like?
A: TOMMY, BRENTON & ERIK: We aim to solidify our position as the best deck builders not only in Anchorage but in all of Alaska. Our focus is on enhancing the client experience, aiming for FWD Construction to be synonymous with the best contracting experience possible. We also have ambitions to expand our operations beyond Alaska and build decks in various parts of the United States. Our goal is to create a nationwide brand known for its dedication to clients and top-quality products.
Internally, we are committed to continuous improvement. We strive to make each year better than the last, set higher goals, and create a company that runs efficiently and effectively. Our vision includes training our employees to be self-sufficient in building and providing them with valuable life skills such as problem-solving, communication, and discipline. Ultimately, we see FWD Construction as a platform for developing not only exceptional builders but also outstanding individuals who respect others and contribute positively to society.
