Star City Six – Nathan Lee
Gabel Construction (gabelconcrete.com) provides epoxy flooring, basement waterproofing, foundation repair, yard drainage and landscaping, egress windows, and snow removal. Nathan Lee is co-owner of Gabel Construction.
Tell us a little about your business.
Gabel has specialized in concrete pouring along with other services since it began in 1977. When my wife Haley and I took over in March of 2020, I brought my 30-year background in epoxy flooring to the company’s offerings. As a team, we strive to get each job done with the highest level of products and customer service.
How did you get started in the business?
I was introduced to the industry at an early age. My parents owned their own company called Midwest Floor Care, and I started working for them when I was 12. I eventually took over and renamed the company Epoxy Concrete Sealers. I then went on to partner with my brother, owning a percentage of a company known as Surface Sealers Inc. I was ready to take things to the next level, so Haley and I decided to take over ownership of Gabel.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally?
I’m a bit of a perfectionist, so I always want to make sure I give the best finished product.
What has been your most important achievement professionally?
Purchasing Gabel Construction. It was a huge step forward in my professional career.
Tell us a little about your family.
Haley and I have been together since high school, married for 22 years. We have four boys, all of whom have worked in my family businesses. Tyler is 27 and married to Gaby. They live in Kearney, and he works for Eaton as the head of maintenance and safety. Ashton is 24 and married to Cassie. He works for Tnemec in the product and tech services department. Hunter is a senior at UNL majoring in fishery and wildlife and minoring in criminal justice. His end goal is to become a game warden. Carter is a junior at Waverly High School, and he wants to get a degree in welding and then eventually take over Gabel.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off?
Golfing, hunting, fishing, boating, and camping.
What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know?
I have worked in almost all 50 states while carrying out projects for my companies.
Who inspires you?
My family.
If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be?
Giving.
What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
“Take only memories, leave only footprints.” – Chief Seattle
If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be?
Mechanical engineer.
What is your favorite movie?
Ford v Ferrari.
What is your favorite TV show?
Last Man Standing.
What is your favorite local restaurant?
Hacienda Real.
If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be?
Carroll Shelby, an American automotive designer, racing driver, and entrepreneur.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?
(402) 440-1857; gabelconstruction20@gmail.com; gabelconcrete.com.