Today we’d like to introduce you to Shannon Burke.
Hi Shannon, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
RDS is a proud three generation — soon to be four generation — family business with deep roots, strong values, and a clear vision for the future. Our story began in 1996 when my grandfather, Don Stricklin, founded the company with a simple mission: install high quality residential doors with honesty, craftsmanship, and care. In those early years, we partnered primarily with Lowe’s stores across the Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex, becoming known for reliability and exceptional workmanship.
For the first 22 years, doors were our specialty. In the early 2000s, we expanded into windows, steadily building a reputation for quality and trust throughout the region. But 2017 marked a turning point. We shifted away from big box installations and began working directly with homeowners — a move that allowed us to offer a more personal, relationship driven experience.
A year later, following the passing of my father, RDS entered a new chapter as a 100% woman owned business. That transition strengthened our commitment to service, integrity, and community connection.
Today, our family continues to shape the company’s future. My daughter, now in college, contributes to our marketing and social media during school breaks and from her campus in Denton. She insists this isn’t her long-term path — but in a family business, everyone pitches in, and every contribution matters. I know that firsthand. I worked for my father off and on throughout the 90s while exploring other opportunities, but when I had a baby on the way, I came home — and home meant helping the family business grow.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Struggles are the name of the game in construction. From the economy to labor issues to family drama it all presents challenges to overcome. In the early years my cousins worked as installers and my grandfather operated from a distance as my father ran the day to day. My sister ran the office for a while, and I soon took over – so family drama and changes can sometimes be a struggle. I know every time we changed directions, from doors to include windows and them moving away from the big box and going out on our own were all challenging times that brought about doubt but also offered opportunities. As I reflect on this question, I think back and see now that the struggles were just pathways to growth. We must change with the times. My dad was not a social media fan (we did not even have a website) and was not excited about taking our business operations online. I remember the NEXTEL days – that was how we communicated!! But look at us now! So struggles… yes but they all lead to the next chapter
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I genuinely love the work I do. Every day, I have the privilege of helping people improve their homes, elevate their comfort, and enhance their quality of life. That passion shows — 93% of our business comes from word‑of‑mouth referrals, a testament to the trust our community places in us.
My favorite projects are window replacements, though we handle doors as well. I’m constantly learning the ins and outs of the craft; staying curious and growing is one of my core goals. I surround myself with smart, experienced people in the industry and make it a point to build strong connections so I’m always in the know.
What I enjoy most is meeting homeowners where they are — walking through their needs, their goals, and their budget, and strategizing together to find the perfect solution. Because we’ve lived in the Garland community our entire lives, these aren’t just customers. They’re neighbors. Improving their homes means improving their lives, and that’s a responsibility I take seriously.
I always give my best price up front. My dad used to say, “We’re not here to make a million dollars — we just want to feed our families.” That philosophy guides every estimate I write and every job we take on.
Our roots in the community run deep. We’re active members of the Garland and Rowlett Chambers of Commerce and proud supporters of organizations like Good Sam, Nexus Recovery Center, and Grace Matters Here. Giving back isn’t a marketing strategy — it’s who we are.
RDS isn’t just a business. It’s a legacy of craftsmanship, family, and service. Giving back is at the core of everything we do.
Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
I am a firm believer in God’s path. How I ended up here is His plan but there were some serendipitous challenges that seemed to open up to lead me here today. When we changed the structure in 2017, I was scared and unsure that was the path, but my dad seemed adamant. He really didn’t share his vision with me (he may not have really had one) so when he passed less than a year later, I had to figure it out along the way. I had started getting us an online presence (website, Facebook ect) and started slashing expenses and the first couple of years were rough. But then came 2020 and things turned around. Although the world was upside down mine was just beginning and we started to take off. I wasn’t sure of the direction, but I just kept the Faith and followed my gut. I knew the business, I knew the office side of things…. I just had to learn how to put it all together – and I did or I am. Every day is a new challenge, and I continue to take classes on business and connect with others in the industry. I remember my dad saying, ” Shannon, you know more than you think you do” That phrase has given me courage and inspiration to keep trying. I love running my own business. Although I work a lot, I have the flexibility in my schedule to be a mother, wife, and an active part of my community.
Pricing:
- We only offer midgrade or higher products so pricing varies
- pricing also varies due to size and style of windows
- the average price you might spend with standard windows installed is about 550.00-700.00 depending on location and style of house
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.rdswindows.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rds.doorandwindows/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rdswindowsllc
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannon-burke-rdswindows/
Image Credits
Lake point Photography – for cover photo
