This month, we are excited to spotlight one of our newest team members, Mclane Goard! As a previous Synergy client, Mclane brings a unique perspective coupled with over ten years of industry experience to her role as General Manager.
Outside of work, Mclane loves staying active and engaged by working on her own renovation projects. She also enjoys going on hikes with her husband and dog, traveling to cities, visiting flea markets, and eating at her favorite restaurants.
Get to know Mclane in the Q&A below!
What was your path to becoming the General Manager at Synergy?
It was kind of an unexpected twist as I had just finished a remodel as a Synergy client!
I chose Synergy for our remodel because I had previously worked for a semi-custom local builder for a long time, working on all things related to construction such as design, marketing, and construction installation. Having had that experience working with an upscale construction company, I really appreciated that Synergy was using high-quality construction techniques and finishes. So, it was easy to choose them as a partner to renovate our home. Through the process, the General Manager opportunity opened up, and not to be cheesy but the “synergy” was there to join the team.
I also love the women-owned, women-led aspect. I’m already seeing it here, the communication and the level of care that women tend to have on details. I’m appreciating it already and I’m so happy to be a part of it going forward. Go ladies!
What skills are important to have in your role?
In this business, whether you’re a leader or just part of the team, it is vital to be able to communicate effectively with everyone involved. In a large-scale remodel, there are so many details to execute and it’s important that those details are conveyed for every aspect of the process, from the original design all the way through execution.
On a personal level, I think integrity is really important to the health of a company, as well as the relationship you build with your clients. The homeowners place an enormous amount of trust into the process with Synergy and at the end of the day we need to be able to make sure we can stand behind our work and our word at the end of the process.
What do you love most about home remodeling and design?
I have always been enthusiastic about design, from the overall vision down to the small details. I have especially enjoyed studying high-end design and developing similar looks that are achievable for all homeowners and creating spaces that make clients feel at home has always been my passion.
From the work aspect, I love that it takes a team to make everything possible and help homeowners realize their own dream spaces.
In the construction industry and in remodeling, there are so many different facets and moving parts. I love working with our team to support the many phases of the process, our in-house design team and carpenters, along with subcontractors, and vendors. It really takes everyone to show up and work together, both creatively and technically, to execute an exceptional remodeling plan and I find that process extremely rewarding.
What’s the most challenging aspect of your work?
Every day brings something new, which is both challenging and exciting at the same time. It could be a construction or design challenge that needs to be evaluated and then acted upon swiftly. Whatever it is, you need to be ready to tackle it as it comes across your desk or comes up in the field. Even as meticulous as the planning can be, you need to be ready for a curveball and ready to think on your feet and take action.
How did you start working in this field?
At the end of college, I happened to fill in for a friend who was working with a builder, and when they returned from vacation, we decided that it made sense for me to stay on board. I loved working with homeowners to create a custom space that was personalized to their specific needs and aesthetics. I also gained experience in manufacturing, where training and promoting a skilled workforce was key to our success. This exposure has given me a healthy respect for the construction industry and the various trades that make it a success.
What advice would you have for anyone who wants to work in home remodeling and design?
If someone is interested in a design-related career, I suggest starting at a specific company like a granite fabricator and really learn that process. They often have design showrooms and that would allow someone to get their foot in the door and allow for their design skills to evolve.
If someone is interested in getting into residential construction, I suggest an apprenticeship or work-to-train for the trades, in fields such as plumbing, carpentry, or electrical. There are also a lot of certificate-based programs that teach the basics of the construction trades without a big commitment to schooling which is often difficult while also carrying a full-time job.
