It Takes Grit and Perseverance to Follow Your Dreams- Walk the Talk

We're thrilled to introduce our special guest, business owner Mai Vu in today's Breaking Barriers Newsletter. Mai is a true testament to grit and perseverance. She has exemplified what it means to chase one's dreams relentlessly, overcoming obstacles and embracing challenges along the way.

In this issue, we delve into Mai Vu's entrepreneurial journey with Elevated Restoration, exploring how unwavering determination has shaped the path and inspired others. Uncovering the story behind Mai's success and insights into the power of persistence in realizing one's dreams.

BB: What inspired you to start your own business in the subcontractor/construction industry?

MV: Starting my own business was something I hadn’t considered until the tail end of my employment with my previous employer, but the decision really took shape after working in the industry and realizing that I wanted more control over the quality of work and the relationships with clients. I was grateful for the experiences??I gained working for my previous employer, but I knew I could build something different that aligned more with my vision and values. It wasn’t easy, but I’m passionate about the work we do and the team we’ve built.?

Being a woman in a male-dominated industry has required a lot of grit, but it has also given me a unique perspective. I’m proud of the reputation we’ve earned over the last five years, and I’m motivated to keep growing and pushing boundaries.

BB: 2. What specific niche or area of construction does your business focus on?

MV: Elevated ER, focuses on the restoration of properties damaged by flood, fire, mold, and asbestos. We provide a full range of services, including remediation, reconstruction after a loss, and demolition, whether it’s for a small project or a large-scale commercial job. A key area where we add value is supporting general contractors by taking on the demolition aspect of their projects. I saw an opportunity to create a specialized company that not only handles the complexities of restoration but also supports other businesses in the industry.

BB: Can you describe what it was like to establish yourself in a predominantly male-dominated industry?

MV: Establishing myself in a predominantly male-dominated industry has definitely come with its challenges, but it’s also been incredibly rewarding. I knew from the start that I would need to be confident in my abilities and determined to prove myself through the quality of our work.

There were moments where I had to work twice as hard to be taken seriously, but I embraced that as an opportunity to demonstrate my commitment and expertise. I’ve found that earning respect in this industry is about showing up every day with integrity, resilience, and a strong work ethic, regardless of gender.

I’m proud of what my team and I have built over the past five years. We’ve gained the trust of clients and general contractors by consistently delivering results, and that’s what drives me forward. While there have been obstacles, I’ve also encountered a lot of support, and I believe that diversity, including having more women in this field, can only strengthen the industry as a whole.

BB: What inspires you and keeps you motivated during the?challenges?of entrepreneurship?

MV: What inspires me and keeps me motivated during the challenges of entrepreneurship is the understanding that small business owners like myself play a crucial role in our local economy. We depend on the support of our community, whether it’s repeat business or new customers choosing to work with local companies.

Cash flow is vital for us, and managing it can be tough, especially during the slow seasons. During those periods, it’s easy for doubt to creep in, and it can definitely take a toll on your mindset.

But what keeps me going is knowing that perseverance, adaptability, and the relationships we’ve built with our clients and community are what sustain us. I remind myself of the bigger picture—the difference we make in people’s lives and the long-term goals of the business. I stay motivated by focusing on how to weather the slow times strategically and prepare for growth when things pick up again. Every challenge is an opportunity to learn, grow, and ultimately, strengthen our business.

BB: What obstacles have you encountered in terms of access to resources, funding, or networking?

MV: Like many small business owners, I’ve faced my share of obstacles when it comes to accessing resources, funding, and networking. Securing funding is and can still be a challenge.

I had to work harder to prove my business’s potential and credibility to gain access to financial resources. Networking also presented its own hurdles. Breaking into established circles within the construction and restoration industry required persistence and a lot of effort.

However, I’ve found that building genuine relationships and delivering quality work over time helped open doors that might not have been accessible at first. While the journey hasn’t been easy, these obstacles have taught me resilience and pushed me to be creative in finding solutions. I’m grateful for the community and industry partners who have supported me along the way, and I’m proud of the progress we’ve made despite the challenges.

BB:?What have been some of your most rewarding experiences in running your business?

MV: One of the most rewarding experiences in running my business has been seeing the impact of our work on the lives of our clients. When someone’s property is damaged by a flood, fire, or other disaster, they’re often dealing with a very stressful situation. Being able to help restore their property and bring a sense of normalcy back to their lives is incredibly fulfilling. Another rewarding aspect has been building a strong and dedicated team. Watching my teammates grow in their roles and knowing that we’re all working together towards a common goal is a source of pride for me.? Finally, being able to contribute to my local community by providing jobs and supporting other small businesses has been a highlight. It’s not always an easy journey, but these rewarding moments make the hard work and challenges worth it.

BB: Can you share a success story or a project you are particularly proud of?

MV: One project that stands out for me was a large hazardous waste remediation job that I was entrusted with. This particular project was significant, not just in its scale—totaling around half a million dollars—but in the responsibility it demanded I managed the entire process, from hiring the environmental consultant to overseeing the project from start to finish, including the reconstruction back to pre-loss condition.

It was a complex and demanding workload, but I was able to deliver beyond expectations, thanks in part to the support and trust of my clients. What makes this project special to me is not just the successful outcome but the opportunity it provided for me to realize my own capabilities. It was a moment of growth for both me and my company, and I'm incredibly grateful for the trust my clients placed in me. Their confidence allowed me to stretch my limits and set a new standard for what Elevated Emergency Restoration can achieve.

BB: What advice would you give others (both men and women) who want to become involved in the construction/subcontractor industry and also advice specifically for women??

MV: My journey in the commercial restoration industry has taught me several valuable lessons, and I’d like to share some advice for anyone looking to get involved in construction or subcontracting, regardless of gender.

First, educate yourself continuously. The industry is constantly evolving, and it’s crucial to stay updated on the latest practices, regulations, and technologies. When I started Elevated ER, I faced significant challenges, particularly because I launched right before the COVID-19 shutdown. I had to learn how to market and brand my business effectively in a highly competitive environment.

Taking courses and seeking advice and mentorship from experienced peers were vital steps in my growth. Second, build a strong network. Relationships are everything in this industry. Whether you’re working with clients, subcontractors, or other restoration companies, having a reliable network can open doors to new opportunities. For example, I was able to take on larger projects by partnering with smaller companies and leveraging their labor resources, which allowed me to expand my capabilities and deliver on bigger jobs.

For women specifically, my advice is to believe in your capability and assert your place in the industry. Construction and restoration have traditionally been male-dominated fields, but that shouldn’t deter you. I’ve found that competence and confidence go a long way. Demonstrating your expertise and consistently delivering quality work will earn you the respect you deserve.

At the same time, don’t be afraid to ask for help or guidance. I’ve relied on my network and mentors to navigate challenges, and it’s been instrumental in my success. Lastly, stay resilient. The construction industry can be tough, with its ebbs and flows, but perseverance pays off. The challenges I’ve faced—like managing a large hazardous waste project or an?interior tenant improvement project —helped me realize what I’m capable of and set the stage for future successes.

No matter your background or gender, if you’re committed to learning, building relationships, and staying resilient, you can carve out a successful path in this industry.

Thank you Mai Vu for sharing your entrepreneurial journey. For those who want to learn more about Elevated ER click on the link below for information or to reach out them directly.

Thank you for joining us this week. We hope you found inspiration and valuable insights in our latest issue. Remember, every challenge is an opportunity in disguise, and persistence is the key to unlocking your dreams.

Stay tuned for more stories and updates, and as always, keep striving and believing in yourself. Until next time, stay motivated and take care!

?? CB