How Metis Construction Services gained prominence helping Kent develop
Since its inception, Metis Construction Services has grown from two employees to 25. The company, which specializes in commercial facility maintenance agreements, tenant build-outs, ground-up construction and historic restoration, has also grown its revenue by more than 14 times what it was in its first year.
The company, founded by Julie Brandle, president, and Katie Wright, vice president of human resources, was able to apply its services to the $110 million redevelopment of downtown Kent, helping to renovate the historic Franklin Hotel, and with the redevelopment of Acorn Alley II, where it now leases office space.
The 2011 project was a big reason the company was able to grow rapidly, but Metis’ consistent hard work has led to a number of referrals and repeat business.
As the projects have evolved from facilities maintenance to large-scale projects, Metis has grown its staff by bringing on experienced superintendents and project managers who have worked in commercial construction.
As the company has grown, it has worked to provide a rewarding work environment for its employees, paying for their benefits, vacation, work clothing and setting up a 401(k).
Metis gives back to the community in much the same way as it operates in the market, preferring housing-related community services such as Habitat for Humanity and Rebuilding Together, for which Brandle sits on the board.
As Metis gives back, so have its employees who have volunteered on charity home building projects. The company supports these efforts by paying the employees’ wages for the time they volunteer, though many refuse the pay.
