Building gratitude: How local builders are strengthening communities one project at a time

Omaha, Neb. – January 5, 2025 – Great builders do more than build homes – they build possibility. Across the country, companies using Buildertrend are finding the operational clarity and financial confidence to take on projects that strengthen the communities they call home.

Tankersley Construction is one of those builders, proving that when companies align their systems to run smoothly, they can focus their energy on the work that makes the biggest difference in communities.

The company, founded by Steve and Heather Tankersley, has become a model for what the next generation of builders can look like – entrepreneurial, community-centered, operationally strong and unafraid to take on the projects that require heart as much as skill.

When operations run smoothly, impact becomes possible

That balance of purpose and performance earned Tankersley Construction the 2025 Fred Case Remodeling Entrepreneur of the Year Award.

The award recognizes remodelers who show strong business acumen and innovation through specific entrepreneurial initiatives. Tankersley Construction did both, launching a paid internship program that consistently brings new talent into the company and turning complex community projects into profitable work that also elevates the industry.

“Entrepreneurship in remodeling isn’t just about how long you’ve been in business,” Steve said. “It’s about how you solve problems, how you treat people and whether your systems support the kind of work you believe in.”

Where others see risk, Tankersley sees opportunity

Today, their firm demonstrates how strong systems, clear financial controls and a committed team can give builders the confidence to say “yes” to projects that many others turn away.

Eighteen months ago, Steve saw a local news story about a grandfather and veteran whose accessory dwelling unit (ADU) had been left half-finished when the contractor went bankrupt. The project was tied up with liens and short on funding. Many industry peers told him to stay away.

“Everyone told us not to get involved,” Steve said. “But we knew we could rally people who wanted to help. Finishing the project was important but restoring trust in our industry was equally important.”

Steve knew this was the opportunity to do the right thing and show what good contractors can do together. He used his network of suppliers and trade partners to lower costs, secured donated or discounted materials and deeply reduced his project management fee while still covering costs and earning a small profit. The veteran was able to complete the ADU for roughly $150,000 less than it would have otherwise cost.

Tankersley Construction’s community impact is made possible by a strong operational backbone. “Our success gives us the freedom to choose the work that matters,” Steve said. “When your systems are solid, you can say ‘yes’ to the projects that change lives.”

Developing the workforce the industry needs

The Tankersleys saw the skilled-labor shortage not as a barrier, but as a calling. Their youth engagement initiative – including job site tours and paid internships – has already introduced six young people to real career paths in the trades. Interns rotate between field and office roles, creating a path for future carpenters, project managers and administrative leaders.

“Our goal is to inspire the next generation of skilled tradespeople while building a talent pipeline for our company,” Steve said.

A culture people want to be part of

The Tankersleys also built a workplace where people feel invested.

Employee engagement has been validated by an outside research firm and recognized publicly. Sacramento Business Journal has named Tankersley Construction a “Best Company to Work For” each of the last three years based on blind employee surveys.

The company has also formalized its commitment to community service through a benefit called Good Life Fridays. Team members are encouraged to take one paid Friday each month to volunteer or invest in their families – a policy that has strengthened both morale and retention.

“Our community trusts us with their homes and their hardest moments,” Steve said. “That trust starts inside our company. If our team feels supported and proud of what we’re doing, that shows up in the way we serve clients.”

How strong systems create capacity for builders to create more good

Tankersley Construction proves that when builders are not buried in spreadsheets, chasing updates or fighting fires, they can focus on the work that creates real impact. With stronger workflows and better financial clarity, they’ve built a business capable of serving clients in their community.

“Builders like Tankersley remind us why our work at Buildertrend matters,” said Charley Burtwistle, Vice President of Core Operations at Buildertrend. “When builders have the systems and support to step beyond day-to-day chaos, they create space for the work that lifts entire communities. We’re proud to stand behind people who build with purpose.”

Media Contact

Chase Moffitt
Public Relations & Content Specialist
Chase.Moffitt@buildertrend.com
(402) 980-4616 (call or text)

About Buildertrend
Great builders don’t simply manage projects; they run successful businesses. That’s where Buildertrend comes in. As the leading residential construction management platform, we give contractors the power to control their financials, schedules, team workflows and client relationships: all in one system. No more juggling disconnected tools or guessing on profitability. With nearly two decades of industry expertise, Buildertrend helps builders work smarter, scale faster and stay ahead of the competition. Learn more at buildertrend.com and on social media @buildertrend.

About Tankersley Construction
Tankersley Construction is a full-service remodeling and general contracting firm based in Rancho Cordova, California, serving the Greater Sacramento region. Founded by Steve and Heather Tankersley, the company blends commercial-grade construction discipline with a community-focused mission, delivering renovations, ADUs, additions and charitable projects with integrity, transparency and craftsmanship. Tankersley Construction is a multi-award-winning firm recognized by NARI, Qualified Remodeler and the Fred Case Remodeling Entrepreneur of the Year Award for excellence in leadership, quality and community impact. Learn more at tankersleybuilds.com.