Meet Nick Ndah | Constructor of physical structures

We had the good fortune of connecting with Nick Ndah and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Nick, what’s one piece of conventional advice that you disagree with?
Never bet on an organization more than you bet on yourself

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I was a nosey kid that turned into an inquisitive young man with hopes of evolving into a thought leader. I firmly believe in trying anything once (that is legal). And not saying no to opportunities out of fear or without context. If you were to look at my resume, it could indicate that I jump jobs. However, I looked at every stop as a project opportunity to build something for the organization or build up myself. I think this is why I love construction so much. There is a beginning and an end to each project. And you can always look back and see the tangible fruits of your labor. I’ve physically smelt, touched, and seen things most only read about. Whether that’s sitting in a construction trailer on a mountain range in -40 degree weather in a northern British Columbia gold mine. Or building a first-class project management consultancy from 2 men and a truck to 300% year-over-year growth in the first three years of operation.

Nothing is easy when it comes to work and life. Conversations about work-life balance mostly talk about achieving balance. I believe “Balance” is camouflage for concession. Growing a company comes at expense of growing your abilities, as a partner, father, son, or friend. I haven’t fully figured out how to overcome these challenges short of cloning myself. But I know I will die trying to find the balance and the benefits that come with it.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I live in the Heights so I am biased toward the area. However, there is no better place in the city to live, work, and play. Anyone visiting us gets to be a part of our weekend walks. It starts with hoping on White Oak Bayou to the MKT area for brunch at Homestead. From there the journey continues to Yale Street for some shopping and drinks while the kids enjoy Donovan Park. You can exercise, have great food, get a nice outfit, day drink, and let the kids play. And be home in time for college football in the afternoon!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
At the risk of sounding cliche and boring, I must say my father. His tremendous ability to generate results from nothing. Coupled with his inability to succumb to traditional organizational bureaucracy has allowed him to venture into entrepreneurship without fear and achieve the same levels of success that rival corporate ladder climbers do without accolades.

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Image Credits
Credit – Nicholas Ndah