For Robert McDonald, President & CEO of Excel Custom Contractors, no two days are ever the same, and that’s exactly how he likes it. As the leader of a thriving family-owned business specializing in custom outdoor living spaces, his schedule is packed with meetings, planning sessions, and hands-on collaboration. Mondays begin with field staff meetings focused on safety and job updates, followed by check-ins with his project manager and estimator. The rest of the week blends strategy and connection, from leadership development and vendor meetings to site visits and production reviews. “Every day, I’m balancing leadership and operations, but at the end of the day, it’s all about keeping our projects and our people moving forward.”
Celebrating 25 years in business, Excel Custom Contractors has become known for exceptional craftsmanship and a commitment to going above and beyond code to ensure quality and longevity. The company designs and builds everything from decks, pergolas, and patios to pavilions, sunrooms, and custom fireplaces. They also offer hot tubs, saunas, Blackstone griddles, and outdoor furniture, helping homeowners create truly personalized outdoor retreats. What makes Excel stand out even more is its deep family foundation. Robert’s wife and three of his four children work alongside him. “I never told my kids they had to join the business,” he says. “They wanted to be part of it. That’s something I’m really proud of.”
That commitment extends to the company’s team of in-house carpenters, who are trained and mentored to meet Excel’s standards. “We strive for excellence in everything we do,” Robert explains. “Our lifetime labor warranty, which we’ve offered since 2009, is our way of standing behind that promise.”
Robert has been a NARI Milwaukee member for more than 15 years, and his involvement has been integral to his company’s success. “Being part of NARI sets you apart,” he says. “It means you follow a code of ethics, do the right thing, and have an organization that supports you when challenges arise.” Beyond the professional credibility, he’s found tremendous value in the community and collaboration that NARI fosters. Robert serves as Chair of the Tour of Remodeled Homes, sits on the Home Show Committee, mentors students through the NextGen program, and is currently a candidate for the Board of Directors.
Among all the events, the Spring Home Improvement Show holds a special place for him. “It’s such a great opportunity to connect, not only with homeowners but with other industry pros,” he says. “Even during slow times, I’m out on the floor networking. That’s when some of the best conversations happen.”
His advice for new members? “Join a committee,” Robert emphasizes. “It takes time and energy, but what you gain, including the networking, the partnerships, and the understanding of the industry, is invaluable. And of course, go to the After 5s!”
After 25 years in business and more than a decade of NARI involvement, Robert remains as passionate as ever about raising the bar for the remodeling industry. “NARI has helped me grow as a leader and as a business owner,” he says. “It’s more than an organization. It’s a group of professionals who care about doing things the right way.”
To learn more about Excel Custom Contractors, click here.