Tamara Baker, CEO, Baker Design Build
In an interview with Invest:, Tamara Baker, CEO of Baker Design Build, talked about the steady demand for the company’s integrated design-build services, how the firm’s customer-centric approach distinguishes it from others, and the excitement over the potential of AI as the company focuses on navigating challenges related to timely project completion.
What was the last year like for Baker Design Build in terms of significant milestones and achievements?
The last year has been quite eventful. We had several goals we aimed to achieve over a three-year period, focusing on building a strong company culture, developing a recognizable brand, fostering camaraderie, giving back to our community, maintaining a strong pipeline of work and ensuring we had the right employees in the right positions. Additionally, we wanted to establish repeatable and reproducible systems throughout our company, all of which we have successfully documented and achieved.
In terms of services, such as your design-build practice or engineering and construction, have you seen more demand for some services than others?
There has not been a significant change in demand for specific services. We have seen a consistent demand overall. Primarily, we have focused on our design-build services, which integrate both design and construction. This approach has been in high demand because clients appreciate the convenience and efficiency of a one-stop shop. We handle the design, permitting, and construction all the way to completion. While we still offer standalone design and construction services, the design-build model has been our main focus for the past six years, and demand for it continues to increase as we also get things done in a timely manner.
What would you say sets your company apart from competitors for your clients?
The fact that we offer both design and building services, providing a seamless experience for our clients, is a significant differentiator for us. However, I believe what truly sets us apart is our commitment to excellent customer service. We do what we say we are going to do and treat our clients the way we want to be treated. Many companies offer similar services, but our team is exceptional. We have a low turnover, a strong sense of camaraderie, and we genuinely enjoy working with each other and our clients. Our focus is on understanding the client’s needs and delivering solutions in a timely manner. Effective communication is key, especially in today’s fast-paced environment. We ensure clients are informed about any delays, additional requirements, or tasks needed to complete their projects.
How do you approach client relationships to guarantee they receive quality solutions and a good overall customer experience?
We have a proven design-build process that we share with clients from the beginning. This process emphasizes communication, detailing every step from initial contact to project completion. We provide a visual graphic of the process so clients can understand and follow along. Our core values — Own It, Be Kind, Be Responsive and Find Your Groove — are integral to our operations. “Own It” means taking responsibility for your work and following through on commitments. “Be Kind” involves having a positive attitude, being respectful and treating others the way you want to be treated. “Be Responsive” means acknowledging communication promptly and in the same manner it was received. “Find Your Groove” is about knowing your job, getting your work done efficiently, and maintaining your daily rhythm. These values, along with our proven process, ensure our employees are well-trained and that we consistently deliver a positive experience.
Are you seeing any overall trends that are shaping construction practices in Jacksonville?
There are numerous trends shaping the industry. One significant trend is the adoption of artificial intelligence, which will undoubtedly transform our industry in various ways, though we are still figuring out exactly how. Another trend is the use of pre-manufactured systems, which can expedite construction processes and reduce costs. In the residential market, affordable housing remains a challenge. For commercial and industrial markets, finding affordable property or retail space is also a major issue. Overall, the trend is towards faster, more economical solutions. While some trends, like AI, are exciting, they also come with a bit of uncertainty. Nonetheless, we are eager to see how these developments will influence the future of construction.
How will business relocations due to downtown developments, such as the new stadium, and the overall population growth in Jacksonville, affect your business?
Everyone in Jacksonville will benefit from these developments. It will be a great place to live, work and play, open to everyone with access to the river and the stadium. The improved sidewalks, landscaping, and overall flow tied together with the new UTC roadway corridor will make Jacksonville a beautiful and fun place to live. It will put Jacksonville on the map nationwide, and I am excited about it. Jacksonville is a big city with different pockets and neighborhoods, each offering something special to the community. It is a great place to live.
How are you integrating technology to advance your construction projects?
We are always using new technology, whether it is an app, new software, or a communication tool. Most construction teams and design-build teams are equipped with apps, iPads, or tablets that make our lives easier. Staying on top of these tools is important, even though we change programs every few years. While transferring data is always a challenge, newer platforms usually offer better data, graphics and compatibility with other systems. It is constantly changing, and there is always something new.
What are the main goals and priorities for Baker Design Build in the next two to three years?
We are hiring right now and looking to grow our company. We have about 27 employees and aim to reach around 40 in the next two to three years. We are also looking for new office space. Some exciting projects include the reconversion of certain streets in Downtown Jacksonville from one-way to two-way streets, making it more user-friendly for both pedestrians and drivers. We are also excited about the new stadium and how the entertainment center will link to downtown. Being part of these landmarks in Jacksonville is thrilling for us.
