Today, we’d like to introduce you to Lonny Anger.
Hi Lonny, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers.
I had a 25-year media (radio) career which I absolutely loved. I worked with some incredibly smart people, clients, and customers. In 2016, my role was eliminated. I took a role as a COO of a company, but it was not the right fit for either one of us. I always enjoyed building things, so I decided to open up a construction company after getting my General Contractor’s License.
With the help of some very dedicated employees, we grew the business to where it is today. Our business model is to work in verticals where there is a lot of traffic, and therefore a need to renovate often – Hospitals, Schools, Offices, Airports, etc. We self-perform demolition, drywall, ceilings, and specialties. We recently opened another business – Custom Pickleball Courts – where we design, build, and restore pickleball courts, tennis courts, and basketball courts.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
When I lost my job in 2016, I was completely devastated. I felt very alone as if I was the only one going through this. I knew many people who ended up in a better position when this happened to them, but I couldn’t believe it for myself.
However, looking back, it was the best thing that ever happened to me professionally. So much so that when I hear of someone losing their position, I try to reach out to let them know that “everything is going to be all right.”
We’ve been impressed with Merrick Industrial Management and Custom Pickleball Courts, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
At Merrick, we specialize in commercial interior renovation, with a special focus on hospitals and schools. 100% of our business is repeat business or referral business. We are known to “always do the right thing”, even if it costs us more money.
Our clients know that if an issue comes up even after the project is complete, we are there to help. Our core group of employees take great pride in working for Merrick, and know that the project they are working on today is an “advertisement for the next one”.
At Custom Pickleball Courts, we self-perform most of the work with limited exceptions such as asphalt and lighting. According to the ASBA (American Sports Builders Association), the US needs another 25,000 courts built to meet up with the demand of the sport. All of our clients have given us rave reviews, in the short time the company has been in business.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
I was fortunate that my partner Steve had previously run a successful construction firm. However, we knew we needed to hire the right talent to get us to the next level. Our Vice President of Operations Jerry, has been with us since we opened.
Many other long-time employees such as Freddy, Paulie, and Alex have also had a major impact on our business. My best advice regarding this is to hire people who are smarter and better than you. If you do that, your job will be a lot easier.
