Women in Business 2022: Erica Royals
A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION CHAMPIONING OUR LOCAL WOMEN IN BUSINESS. PHOTOGRAPY BY JESSICA WHITLEY.
Piedmont Construction Group
Partner, Contracts Manager
107 Gateway Drive, Suite B, Macon
478-405-8907
eroyals@piedmontconstructiongroup.com
piedmontconstructiongroup.com
What is the mission of your business?
Piedmont Construction Group fosters the well-being of the entire project team in delivering exemplary construction services that exceed the owner’s expectations in time, value and quality.
What lessons did you learn because of the COVID-19 pandemic?
Technology is essential. It became quickly evident that Piedmont Construction Group was ahead of the curve regarding technology. Therefore, when Georgia shut down, we continued to seamlessly serve our clients with our employees working from their homes while staying connected to swiftly solve unforeseen problems due to the pandemic.
How do you define success?
Some mornings, success is to make it to the end of the day – a relatable notion for many, I presume. Ultimately, however, defining and accomplishing personal goals is how I define success.
What are you most excited about right now in our community?
The new Macon-Bibb County Amphitheater is what I am most excited about! I am fortunate to be a part of this project as Piedmont Construction is part of the design/build team. I look forward to the opportunities and economic progress it will bring to the mall area.
Why is Central Georgia a good place to do business?
Central Georgia is a great place to do business because there is a wealth of growth due to the various industries that support the area. In addition, the passionate community that strives to make Central Georgia thrive is commendable.
You might be surprised to know:
That our projects range from small classroom renovations, Chick-fil-As and campus-wide fiber improvements to sizeable multi-family housing, healthcare facilities, commercial builds and historic renovations.
What is the most gratifying part of your job?
The most gratifying part of my job is seeing our construction projects completed and how they positively impact the user or community.
What has been the most challenging part of being a woman in business?
It’s challenging to balance a career and home life while fulfilling personal goals; a lot is expected of women.
I admire women who: know who they are and are confident in their abilities.
What was the best business advice you ever received?
The best advice I have received was to be a lifelong learner. All businesses evolve and change; the best way to cope is to have an open mind and learn new ways to adapt.
I hope more women will: consider the abundant opportunities the construction industry has to offer.
How can women better support each other?
Women can better support each other by supporting young women. In my early years, women who had more experience helped me tremendously. That set an example for me to do the same and mentor others now that I am in that position.
How can men better support women business owners/leaders?
Men can better support women in business by advocating for equal pay and opportunity, utilizing their business services and referring others to do the same.
Looking back, I wish I had known: to never say no to an opportunity. One lesson or decision can completely change the course of your life.
In five years: I will have more experience to excel in my position and help others along the way.