* Price for profits: General Contractors always know that the price is the price. This company prices the jobs in order to be profitable while offering the commitment to quality and execution that is required to deliver an on time, problem free job.
Low-ball GCs need not apply.

* Above all, I observed a huge commitment to the reputation of the company. Everyone realizes that their excellent reputation is their meal ticket. Besides financial rewards of excellence, they are clearly proud of their name and are diligent to enhance it as well as promote it.

As I mentioned, I was there just to help out as they develop their service division. I have no doubt that it will flourish as their contracting division has because I see the same commitments are already rooted in the service division.

I came away very encouraged that there is hope for top tier contractors who are willing to commit to doing right things. To all of you who are committed to being the best at what you do, I salute you for giving back to this wonderful industry. You are doing something that I fear is becoming rare as so many business people seek to "cash in."

Maybe I'm feeling a bit of spill over from the overwhelming national pride I've seen lately ( and not just the US of A). Regardless, I've got to say I'm truly proud to be part of our profession and have been challenged to higher goals. It looks to me like whether you're in new construction or service work, it's still valuable to focus on being the best!