THE
PEOPLE
BEHIND THE BUILDING
Stories of Empowering Partnerships and
Building Capacity in Construction
Mike Ware, a seasoned union carpenter with over two decades of experience, embarked on a daring journey one that led him from the familiarity of labor to the realm of entrepreneurship One morning, he turned to his wife, Nikki Langley, with a vision: "Let's start our own drywall business " And so, Westview Building Inc was born
For a small business, every step into the industry is a challenge, and being a minority-owned enterprise adds an additional layer of complexity Mike and Nikki’s venture faced hurdles unfamiliar to larger counterparts, making each success a testament to resilience and tenacity. Navigating the competitive subcontractor marketplace demanded more than just skill; it required strategic partnerships and a support system that understood the unique challenges faced by businesses like Westview Building Inc.
Mike Ware Westview Building Inc. Mike Ware, Westview Building Inc. Mike Ware and Nikki Langley of Westview Building Inc with the 288 Harrison team
"We didn’t know, what we didn’t know when we started on this journey," Mike reflected. "It's the patience, support, and invaluable relationships with our project partners that have propelled us to where we stand today."
Their story is representative of the symbiotic relationship between small businesses and supportive partnerships. In the journey from bidding 1 to 2 jobs per week to managing 10, they found allies who believed in their potential. Yet, it's crucial to underline that the support and guidance provided mean nothing without the sweat equity Mike and Nikki invest every day The growth of their business is not merely a result of external support; it is a product of tireless effort, grit, and a determination to succeed against the odds
One of Mike and Nikki’s initial projects with NEI, Olmsted 100 in Mattapan, proved to be a crucial asset, contributing to the success of their subsequent projects. The challenges were real, but their willingness to learn and adapt propelled them forward. Today, standing on the construction site of 288 Harrison, the scale of their capabilities has grown exponentially. The scope now encompasses not just physical structures but the realization of dreams, with financial figures that reflect the magnitude of their journey.
Mike and Nikki’s story is a narrative of earned success a story of small business owners who defied the odds, overcame challenges, and grew not only in scale but in the depth of their expertise In the dynamic tapestry of Boston's construction industry, Mike Ware, Nikki Langley and Westview Building Inc stand as living proof that with hard work, supportive partnerships, and an unyielding determination, dreams can be built from the ground up
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Nikki Langley, Westview Building Inc.
Edgar Rodriguez NEI Laborer
Edgar Rodriguez, is an immigrant shaped by the transformative opportunities offered through the YouthBuild Boston program Edgar's journey, marked by resilience and raw talent, stands as a testament to the immense impact such programs can have on individuals, like Edgar, facing immense challenges from an early age
Growing up surrounded by the sights and sounds of construction, Edgar developed a natural affinity for the craft. Laying the groundwork for a raw talent that would later drive his professional journey.
The pivotal moment for Edgar came during a site visit to Morton Station Village with YouthBuild, where his passion for construction deepened. Just six months later, this experience paved the way for Edgar to find himself seated across from NEI's Dan Pope an encounter that swiftly propelled him into the world of construction, providing labor on the 288 Harrison project, underscoring the transformative power of his YouthBuild experience
Edgard Rodriguez, NEI Laborer
YouthBuild students with the Morton Station Village team
At YouthBuild, we specialize in workforce development, and contractors like NEI play a pivotal role in identifying and nurturing individuals like Edgar,” Duncan Coakley remarked “They are on the other side, ready to catch guys like Edgar as they strive towards fulfilling their potential
Now, Edgar's aspirations of becoming a superintendent are materializing, fueled by both his unmatched work ethic and innate talent. As the skyline of Chinatown evolves with the construction of 288 Harrison, Edgar Rodriguez becomes not just a part of the workforce but a symbol of untapped potential finding its way to the forefront. The partnerships between workforce programs and contractors, exemplified by Edgar's journey, showcase that when the industry is committed to fostering talent at its roots, we are able to offer life changing opportunities to individuals like Edgar who might have otherwise been overlooked
Together, Mike, Nikki and Edgar's stories weave into the vibrant story of Boston's construction industry a tale of ambition, adversity, and triumph Their journeys, symbolize the spirit of those who defy the odds to shape their destinies
Career Path Opportunities
and becomes a testament not only to the construction of physical structures but to the realization of dreams anchored in perseverance, opportunity, and unwavering determination
In this collaborative effort, dreams, aspirations, and the commitment to building a brighter future stand tall, echoing in every brick laid and every beam raised.
YouthBuild NEI Experience Business Owner Project Manager Site Superintendent Trade
Edgar Rodriguez with a classmate and Duncan Coakley, YouthBuild Superintendent