A Legacy Built on Relationships

At Creative Construction of Wisconsin, no two days look exactly the same.

Samantha's role includes overseeing projects, working closely with clients, coordinating with crews, and helping solve the unique challenges that come with restoration and historic construction work. Over the years, however, her responsibilities have evolved beyond day-to-day operations.

"As the company has grown, my role has shifted from focusing on the immediate tasks to leadership, mentoring, and long-term planning," she explains. "Today, a large part of the job is building relationships, developing our team, and making sure we continue to maintain the quality and reputation we've worked hard to build."

That emphasis on relationships has been a defining characteristic of Creative Construction of Wisconsin for generations.

"We've always tried to treat our employees, customers, and partners with honesty, respect, and loyalty because relationships matter to us," Samantha says. "We take a long-term approach to the business and genuinely care about the people we work with."

Craftsmanship Rooted in History

One of the things that makes Creative Construction of Wisconsin unique is its specialization in restoration and historic preservation.

Many of the projects the company takes on require a deep understanding of older building methods, materials, and construction techniques—skills that have become increasingly rare. Over the years, the team has worked on many significant historic structures, including multiple Frank Lloyd Wright properties.

"Many of our projects require a unique level of craftsmanship and attention to detail," Samantha says. "That experience has really helped shape who we are as a company."

While technical expertise is important, Samantha believes the company's reputation has been built just as much on trust, responsiveness, and a commitment to quality.

Investing in the Future of the Trades

For a company with more than a century and a half of history, it would be easy to focus solely on preserving the past.

Instead, Creative Construction of Wisconsin has become one of NARI Milwaukee's strongest supporters of workforce development and industry outreach. The company has been a longtime supporter of the NARI Milwaukee Foundation, Outreach Committee, and especially the Next-Gen Trades Challenge program.

"The future of the skilled trades is something we care deeply about," Samantha says. "Programs like Next-Gen Trades Challenge help introduce young people to opportunities they may not otherwise consider."

For Samantha, the excitement comes from helping students discover careers that allow them to build something meaningful and lasting.

"There's a great sense of pride that comes from working with your hands, solving problems, and seeing the finished product at the end of the day," she says.

She also hopes more young people understand that careers in the trades offer far more opportunities than many realize.

"The trades aren't just jobs, they're careers. There are opportunities for growth, entrepreneurship, creativity, and financial stability. Success doesn't always have to follow a traditional four-year college route."

The Value of NARI Milwaukee

Creative Construction of Wisconsin's commitment to the industry naturally extends to NARI Milwaukee. For decades, the company has remained actively involved because of the organization's focus on professionalism, education, and collaboration.

"NARI has always been much more than an industry association," Samantha says. "It's a place to build relationships, learn from other professionals, and stay connected to the remodeling and construction community."

Those relationships have proven invaluable over the years.

From networking events and educational programs to volunteer opportunities and workforce development initiatives, NARI has helped expand the company's perspective while strengthening its connections throughout the industry. One area that stands out most is the organization's outreach efforts.

"The workforce development programs have had a particularly meaningful impact because they directly support the future of the trades," Samantha says. "Seeing students become excited about the industry and helping create opportunities for the next generation has been extremely rewarding."

Preparing the Next Generation

As the next generation of leadership becomes more involved in both the company and NARI Milwaukee, Samantha sees firsthand the importance of continued learning and professional development.

"The construction industry is constantly evolving," she says. "Materials, technology, building codes, and customer expectations continue to change."

Programs like NARI's Business 201 classes help develop the leadership, communication, and business skills needed to navigate those changes successfully.

"No matter how long you've been in the industry, there's always something new to learn."

Advice for New Members

When asked what advice she would give newer members, Samantha keeps it simple: "Get involved early and consistently."

Whether it's attending events, volunteering, joining committees, or building relationships, she believes active participation is the key to getting the most out of membership.

"NARI provides incredible opportunities to learn from experienced professionals and connect with people who genuinely want to help each other succeed. The relationships you build can have a lasting impact on both your business and your career."

Looking Ahead

While Creative Construction of Wisconsin remains committed to preserving historic structures and delivering exceptional craftsmanship, Samantha is equally excited about the future of the industry.

"We're proud of the team and reputation we've built over the years," she says. "There are certainly challenges ahead, but there are also tremendous opportunities for growth, innovation, and attracting a new generation into the skilled trades."

For a company built on 150 years of history, that's a future worth investing in.

To learn more about Creative Construction of Wisconsin, click here.