Born from Service: The Military Foundation of GBR
At GBR Roofing & Sealants, LLC, our story is deeply rooted in the values derived from our collective experiences in the military. This foundation has not only shaped our company’s culture but also guided our approach to business, setting us apart in the roofing industry. Our journey began with a vision inspired by the discipline, organization, and commitment to excellence that define military service, particularly the experiences of Brandon Willeford, co-founder.
Background and Inspiration
Willeford served in the United States Marine Corps in the Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) Service Support Group. MEUs are rapid response forces capable of conducting amphibious operations, crisis response, and special operations support. His time in the Marine Corps taught him invaluable lessons in organization, discipline, and strategic planning. He proudly carries these ingrained traits forward to all facets of his life.
Today, Willeford has brought these skills and values to the civilian world, helping to establish GBR Roofing & Sealants, LLC. Headquartered in the Houston Metro area, GBR operates nationwide, deploying crews along the Gulf Coast and for projects across the United States. Our company’s organizational structure mirrors military setups, using the Napoleonic Staffing System’s Section Shops (S-Shops) for administrative and support roles. Additionally, GBR’s operations are structured as a battalion would be, divided into platoons, squads, and teams. This clear chain of command provides a manageable span of control to ensure efficiency and effectiveness.
Integrating Military Core Values
At GBR, we have integrated several core military values into our company culture:
- Service-Driven: We prioritize exceptional service, focusing on client needs.
- Duty: We fulfill our obligations diligently.
- Respect: We treat everyone with the dignity they deserve.
- Honor: We uphold all values with true faith and allegiance.
- Integrity: We maintain unwavering honesty, transparency, and accountability.
- Discipline: We adhere strictly to rules and regulations.
- Commitment to Excellence: We strive for the highest standards in all endeavors.
- Teamwork: We collaborate effectively towards common goals.
- Resilience: We recover quickly from setbacks and maintain effectiveness under pressure.
These values are not just words on a page; they are principles we live by every day. They influence our decision-making processes, guide our interactions with clients, and shape our company culture. Our dedication to these values motivates us to consistently improve, ensuring we deliver safe, high-quality services while maintaining transparent communication with our clients.
Building Strong Relationships
Our military background significantly aids in building and maintaining strong relationships with our clients. We prioritize open, two-way communication, ensuring we are always responsive to client needs. Transparency and accountability are at the heart of everything we do.
One client put it best: “GBR distinguishes itself with thorough planning, a strong grasp of client requirements, and a proactive, attentive stance on issues. Their quick learning and forward-thinking approach impress. For me, the essentials are work quality, leadership excellence, an understanding of site and organizational demands, and reliability. GBR consistently delivers on all fronts, affirming their role as a key partner for our company.”
This testimonial reflects our dedication to client satisfaction and our proactive approach to meeting client needs. By treating every project with the same level of importance and attention to detail, we build trust and long-lasting relationships with our clients.
Supporting Our Veteran Team Members
Veterans transitioning to civilian life often find GBR’s familiar organizational structure and mode of operations comforting and supportive. This has earned us high praise from both potential candidates and current employees, highlighting GBR as an ideal workplace for veterans.
One of our veteran employees shared their experience: “Transitioning from the military to civilian life can be challenging, but GBR made it seamless. Our structure and values are very similar to what I was used to in the Army, making it easier to adapt and excel. GBR truly values what veterans bring to the table, and it’s a great place to continue serving in a different capacity.”
This positive feedback underscores our commitment to supporting veterans and providing an environment where they can thrive. Currently, one-third of our workforce consists of veterans, and we actively recruit veterans as often as possible.
Impact on Growth
Our unique organizational structure and robust support team have received extremely positive feedback from clients and stakeholders. Many are intrigued and impressed by our approach, which has significantly contributed to our growth. GBR’s commitment to military values not only shapes our internal culture but also fosters strong, lasting partnerships and business success.
Our clients appreciate our disciplined approach and the reliability that comes with it. By adhering to the values of duty, respect, and integrity, we ensure that our work meets the highest standards, building a reputation for excellence in the roofing industry.
Conclusion
GBR Roofing & Sealants, LLC exemplifies the positive impact of military values in business. Founded and led by veterans, we embody duty, respect, honor, integrity, and excellence in all we do. This foundation has fostered strong client relationships, supported our veteran workforce, and driven our growth.
As we expand, we stay true to these core values, solidifying our role as a leader in the roofing industry and a trusted partner nationwide. Our story is one of service, dedication, and relentless pursuit of excellence—values born from military service and reflected in every aspect of GBR.
Visit www.gbrwp.com for more information on GBR and the services we provide.
Article by Robert Rust, Chief of Staff at GBR Roofing & Sealants, LLC