by Paula Anderson
Second generation small business owners learned the value of hard work and perseverance from their father - Willie Richards. His experiences and life lessons in the construction industry prepared his twins for success. Terrell Richards and Wiley Richards are the co-owners of W&T Contracting Corporation. According to the website, W&T Contracting Corporation offers professional construction services, which includes sanctuary sewer evaluation systems, excavation, road building and rural access, rehabilitation, and field services. Terrell Richards and Wiley Richards credit their father for the work ethic they learned to become successful business owners. "Our father taught us to have no excuses," said Wiley Richards.
W&T Contracting Corporation was recently awarded a contract with Walbridge Construction - the General Contractor (GC) for Ford BlueOval City. "We bidded on the megasite project and received a $50M contract through a joint venture with Magnolia Underground Construction," said Terrell Richards.
Magnolia Underground Construction, Inc. is based in Byhalia, Miss. According to the website, MUC is a "resource for municipal, commercial and residential projects.""We attended outreach meetings, viewed website postings and focused on a joint venture. A bid was submitted in Oct. 2022 and the official award came in Nov. 2022," said Terrell Richards. The construction company has positioned itself over the years to bid on prime contract opportunities.
Courtesy photos
W &T Contracting Corporation has certifications with the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT), City of Memphis, Shelby County Government and the Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT). Although W&T Contracting Corporation has achieved success in the construction industry, there have been challenges as a minority-owned business.
"Minority businesses have blossomed over the last 15-20 years," said Wiley Richards. "I am blown away by the success."
"We are blown away about the diversity and inclusion," said Terrell Richards. "Construction opportunities are blossoming for minorities."
Terrell Richards shared advice for individuals who want to pursue a career in the construction industry.
"Find a mentor, learn as much as you can, make a plan, obtain general education about the industry and work for a company to gain experience."
To learn more about W & T Contracting Corporation, visit https://www.wtcontractingcorp.com/
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