Dave Critser has been in the construction field since he was 16 and, after college, advanced from project engineer to project manager and eventually preconstruction manager. This led him to start his own company, Phoenix Construction Group, Inc., in 2012. Phoenix Construction Group provides a variety of construction services including, but not limited to, estimating, preconstruction management, design-build, general contracting, construction management and development for projects ranging from small interior remodels to multi-million dollar new construction.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally?
Every job/contract presents its own challenges, each one unique and seemingly insurmountable at the time, so it’s hard to pin down one as the hardest challenge. However, this is what I love most about the construction industry…the constant struggle to overcome challenges!
Tell us a little about your family.
I’ve been married for more than eight years to my wife, Stephanie, and we have two sons, Tregan (5) and Riley (4 in October), as well as our Yellow Lab, Maggie.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life?
On a personal level, becoming a father changes everything. From a professional standpoint, it has to be being laid off from my previous job because that was the catalyst for me starting Phoenix Construction Group Inc.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off?
I enjoy all time spent with my family, attending my kids’ activities and catching up on the DVR with my wife.
What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know?
As a kid, I loved the song Convoy and would listen to it all the time while I dreamed of becoming a truck driver when I grew up!
What are you the most proud of?
My family.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
“You have to learn to walk before you can run.” Sadly, I’ve never actually followed this advice, but it is excellent advice and the best advice I’ve ever been given.
What is the one goal you would most like to accomplish?
I really just want to have a successful, sustainable business.
If you could have a super power, what would it be?
X-ray vision! Imagine what that would do for me in this industry…being able to see inside structures and behind walls would make it infinitely easier to bid projects and prevent unforeseen problematic conditions!
What are your plans after retirement?
I can’t even think about retirement right now, I’m just getting started.
What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life?
When I was younger, I had some aptitude for art like drawing and painting. I loved doing it but I haven’t done it in years.
Which talent would you most like to have?
Being a better public speaker.
What is your favorite book or the last good book you read?
I can’t remember the last book that I read for entertainment – that’s really my wife’s domain. I usually have to read technical books, code books or operator’s manuals. When I have time, I read magazines like Men’s Health and Sports Illustrated.
What is your favorite movie?
Gladiator
What is your favorite TV show?
Castle
What is your favorite local restaurant?
We don’t eat out much anymore, but I always like Famous Dave’s or any good BBQ.
If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be?
Peyton Manning
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?
Via e-mail is best at dac@phxcgi.com or call (402) 339-1500 or check out our company at: www.phxcgi.com.