River City Six – Tim Silknitter
Meet Tim Silknitter, owner of Gitt Construction (gittdbr.com).
Tell us a little about your business.
We are a design-build remodel and residential general contractor improving homes and clients’ lives by increasing home value and comfort through design, quality, value, integrity, and innovation. We were founded in 2004 by Mike Gitt.
How did you get started in the business?
I was blessed to grow up in a family with rental property, so I was swinging my first hammer at age eight and have never stopped. I have an architectural degree from UNL and worked with a few local architectural firms. I spent 25 years as a manager or director in the commercial opening industry for distributors and manufacturers. I purchased Gitt Construction in October of 2020 from Mike Gitt. I guess my background allowed me to take off where Mike handed it over to me.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally?
Growing a business in these uncertain times, and increased material prices.
What has been your most important achievement professionally?
Receiving recognition as a program developer and trainer for a corporate commercial company. It taught me that employees are driven by the support of their manager and company.
Tell us a little about your family.
I have been married to my wife Anne for over 20 years. As we like to say, “We have had five amazing years, a minute here, an hour there.” If you are married, you can appreciate the humor in that statement. I would not be who I am today with our her loving support. Our daughter Kate is a sophomore at Cottey College, and our son Colton is a freshman at Iowa State. I’m so proud of them! We also have two fur mutts, George and Walter.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life?
Deciding to own a business. It is rewarding and challenging.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off?
Riding our motorcycles while we build friendships and find unique places along the way.
What is the most interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know?
I absolutely love the Beastie Boys and Run DMC!
Who inspires you?
My late father, Duane. He always made today better than yesterday and never gave up. He could accomplish anything once he set his mind to it.
What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
“If you ain’t first, you’re last.” – Ricky Bobby.
If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be?
Relentless.
If you had a theme song, what would it be?
“Born to be Wild” by Steppenwolf.
What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life?
Smoking meats!
Which talent would you most like to have?
Glass blowing. I love Chihuly’s work.
What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why?
Miles for Heroes. It was started with Nebraska Veterans in support for those battling combat effects at home.
What is your favorite movie?
Deadpool or O Brother, Where Art Thou.
If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be?
Frank Lloyd Wright.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?
(402) 990-6682; tim@gittdbr.com; gittdbr.com.