During Black History Month, we have an opportunity to uplift the voices and experiences of the Black community, ensuring that their stories are not only heard but also valued and celebrated. That’s why we’ve chosen to engage with one of the minority-owned businesses (MBE) contributing to the development of Intuit Dome, shedding light on their role in building this world-class arena.
Can you share the journey that led you to establish your minority-owned business with us?
George Harriott: I started in the industry in 1993 in the construction boom. I began as a superintendent in the Alamo Dome in Texas. We started with school auditoriums and smaller venues. We rode the wave to what it is today. We are a minority-owned company, but I firmly believe it should not just be considered that, we are much bigger than that. There is a philosophy that my father shared with me, and that was, if you perfect your craft, then the money will come.
What is your role for Intuit Dome?
GH: We are installing all the ornamental metal and are a subcontractor for Sightline Commercial Solutions. They are the manufacturer, and we do the installation for them. We have worked with them throughout the country. Some of our past work has been at the arena in Palm Springs, Madison Square Garden, Barclays Arena, Nashville’s soccer stadium, and BMO stadium for the LFC.
How did you start your career?
GH: I was approached in San Antonio as I was working in the Alamo dome and a person who worked for the arena association, who had seen me work hard, asked if I had thought about starting my own company, and they helped me start it. Someone saw something in me that perhaps I didn’t see in myself, and I took the chance and rose to the occasion. It started as a public seating company, worked on Dodger Stadium with the renovation and Magic Johnson theatre located in Crenshaw. Someone instrumental in my success was Paul Foster, he owns a construction management firm. He took time out of his day to mentor me and that is something companies need to do more.
As we celebrate Black History Month, what message would you like to convey to individuals and organizations about how they can help minority-owned businesses?
GH: I think it is imperative to support the right company. It’s about someone who deserves and wants the opportunities and not just base it on their color. You want someone that embraces it. Mentoring to minority-owned businesses is key. The bigger companies need to choose someone they want to work with and not just because you are made to work with them, because that’s when I have seen minority businesses fail, they will do the work that is needed to succeed beyond the one project.
Thank you, George, for giving us the opportunity to spotlight the experiences, challenges, and achievements of a minority-owned disadvantaged business, especially during Black History Month. Your insights and inspiration are invaluable for businesses aiming to be a part of major projects like Intuit Dome.