Today we’d like to introduce you to Bill Courtney.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Bill. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I graduated from SMU with MBA, Austin College in Sherman undergrad. Was hired by an entrepreneur from Dallas named Jim Clark. Went to work for his 20 person company in Ohio. The company has since grown to almost 1500 employees through acquisitions and organic growth. CDBS is the largest manufacturer of metal framing in the nation which is used a primary building component in commercial construction. My personal journey involved working for the original owner, owning it myself and then being acquired by American and Japanese publically traded companies. My experience transcended managing a small single location in Ohio through CDBS’ current count of 17 facilities nationwide including the Dallas manufacturing facility.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Many bumps/learning experiences:
Growing- Learning how to manage scale (small to big)
Technology- When I began my career the latest invention was a fax machine, cell phones and computers completely transformed how we did business
M&A-acquiring companies required attention to developing and communicating CULTURE to successfully integrate and assimilate them into the greater whole
Economic downturns in a cyclical business- BIG one- managing through the GREAT RECESSION of 2008- many hard lessons- how to manage deep cost cutting without discarding resources and talent for the future
Things I have learned- have a high tolerance for pain/Be resilient/Have a sense of humor/ be humble, accountable and accessible
So, as you know, we’re impressed with ClarkDietrich Building Systems – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
– Largest metal framing, cornerbead and metal lath manufacturer in US
– Over 1,400 employees, 17 locations
– Market leader in metal framing solutions for the Commercial construction market
Our resume of projects include Freedom Tower, AT&T Stadium, Yankee Stadium, Apple Headquarters, etc. If it is a large complex commercial construction project, we are the first choice provider.
So, what’s next? Any big plans?
CDBS continues to grow and acquire. Still meaningful upside for the commercial construction market even though it is being constrained by labor shortages due to low unemployment and a tight US border policy
Personally, after 34 years, I am stepping down in my role as President/ CEO to pursue other interests effective April 1, 2018. I will continue to work part time for the Board of Directors in an advisory role.
Contact Info:
- Address: ClarkDietrich Building Systems
9050 Centre Pointe Drive
West Chester, Ohio - Website: https://www.clarkdietrich.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/clarkdietrich
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ClarkDietrich-Building-Systems
- Twitter: ClarkDietrich@CLARKDIETRICH
Getting in touch: VoyageDallas is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
