Star City Six: Melissa Fisher
Tru-Built Construction is a full-service new construction and remodeling company specializing in both residential and commercial projects. Melissa Fisher is the CFO at Tru-Built Construction ( www.tru-built.net).
Tell us a little about your business. – The company was founded in 1999 by Bo Jones and Steve Powell while completing their degrees at UNL. Tru-Built has grown from a two man crew to a team of thirteen and has developed a reputation for our honesty and quality of work we deliver.
How did you get started in the business? – I started working on the completion of new homes in 2002 while completing my Interior Design Degree from UNL. Before starting at Tru-Built Construction in 2011 I specialized in kitchen design at Consolidated Kitchens and Absolute Kitchen & Bath doing both new construction and remodels. While kitchens are still a passion of mine, I thoroughly enjoy helping our team grow while being able to contribute on many of our construction projects.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? – Technology and staying aware of new products and programs has been my biggest challenge. Clients are always looking for new features and items for their homes so making this a priority is important.
What has been your most important achievement professionally? – The relationships I have made in the industry. It is very rewarding to see the end product come together on projects and it is only possible by the people who are involved. No one person is responsible or can take credit; I am blessed to have great co-workers and subcontractors to make our projects come together. This has given me the opportunity to turn clients into long-lasting friends.
Tell us a little about your family. – My husband Dan and I have been married 12 years and have two wonderful daughters. Ava is 9 and enjoys playing soccer, volleyball, and doing anything that gets her outside. Tess is 5 and loves dressing up, dancing, and copying everything her big sister does!
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? – Getting married and having children. They have humbled me and shown me what really matters most.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? – Spend quality time with my family exploring nature or crafting with my children.
What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? – I play on a volleyball league.
What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life? – Teaching others.
Which talent would you most like to have? – Mechanical skills. I can cause problems or break something just by looking at it!
If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? – Fashion Designer.
What local non-profit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? – The American Cancer Society. I lost my grandparents early to cancer and my father-in-law as well. Seeing what cancer does too many and to the families of the victims is something I wish on no one; I hope for a cure in my lifetime.
What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? – Skippy Jon Jones? My time is limited so children’s books are my current favorite.
What is your favorite movie? – Avatar.
What is your favorite TV show? – Modern Family.
What is your favorite local restaurant? – Lazlo’s.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – Call (402) 477-4663, email me at melissa@tru-built.net, or find Tru-Built Construction online at www.tru-built.net.