by 
Heather Ferrill
Building Contractor, Co-owner Ferrill Construction Company, Inc.
Heather Ferrill is a native of Tampa, growing up in Brandon, Florida. She worked for years helping others succeed in business, but it wasn’t until 2003 when she began working with her husband David in the construction business that she saw the benefits of business ownership herself. Since then she’s received her building contractor’s license, “it was harder than I thought it would be and I am so thankful that I achieved it,” and helps her husband grow their business, all while raising their seven-year old son. Meet Heather.
1. What is the most interesting thing about you or your business?
It is an exciting time in construction. After seven years of just trying to keep our doors open we are prospering in so many ways. I think it’s interesting that we are a husband and wife team of building contractors. There are not that many women in construction and I love that we can offer clients the “he said/she said” perspectives.
2. What makes business ownership worth it to you?
I like being my own boss, working for myself and making my own way. In my first job out of college, where I stayed for 10 years, I worked really hard and when the company sold my bosses made a huge profit and I was left with very little. I swore to myself that if I worked that hard again it would be for myself.
3. Describe your typical day.
Up at 5:30 a.m. to meditate, do light yoga and prepare for the day. I get to the office at 7:30 a.m. after dropping off my son. My portion of the business is operations, so most of my day is spent coordinating, checking, double checking, and making sure we are in integrity as a company with our clients and subcontractors/suppliers. I work as hard as I can until it’s time to pick up my son. At that point I flip off the business owner side of me and focus only on family until my son goes to bed.
4. Would you ever trade running your own business for a 9 to 5 job?
No, I really wouldn’t.
5. What advice would you give to someone considering business ownership or entrepreneurism?
I’ve been working through this book called Traction. I recommend it as a way to organize your business and move forward with a great plan in place. Are there certain skills or traits they need to be successful? Be resilient. Keep moving forward.
6. Why do you think you’re successful?
I do my best to always operate with honesty and integrity. I treat people how I would like to be treated. These traits are not always common in the construction industry and I think they set us apart. What does success mean to you? That every night when I go to sleep and I recall the day I feel that I lived my best life ever.
