TAUNTON — Joe DeVlaeminck built his skills working in the area construction industry for 18 years. He is currently working his way up as a manager.
Last year, Devraemink acquired the former Tom Bofferding Construction Company and formed his own company, Concrete Joe Construction. He said the business specializes in residential concrete work.
“The first year was pretty successful.” Devremink said. The company is currently preparing new projects for spring. “Actually, I'm already very busy.” He said.
Starting my own business was stressful, but also rewarding.
“It was really fun” Devremink said.
Devremink is a resident of Taunton and a 2005 graduate of Minneota High School.
“I went to college at Pipestone to do carpentry.” He said. After graduating from university, he took a job as a carpenter, but it turned out that he was not a good fit. “I didn’t like the carpentry part.” He said.
Devremink continued to work for Tom Bofferding. He found that he really enjoyed working with concrete instead. “With concrete, you always have to use your mind in different ways.” Devremink said. He said there is variety in the job and different ways to solve problems.
“I worked with (Tom) for about 18 years.” He eventually became a foreman, Devremink said. At the same time, he started some side businesses himself. When Bofferding decided to retire, he offered to sell the construction business to Devremink.
“I've always wanted to start my own business.” Devremink said. It was a big undertaking. Devre Mink received support from the Southwest Initiative Foundation's Microenterprise Loan program for him to complete the company acquisition and launch Concrete Joe Construction.
In many ways, Concrete Joe Construction builds on the foundation of Tom Bofferding Construction. Mr. Devremink continued to maintain the same staff. The new business would never have worked without them, he said. Mr. Devremink has four employees, and his sister also helps with office work, he said.
Concrete Joe Construction still serves the same customers as before, including local hardware and lumber stores and construction companies that need concrete work completed. Devremink said the business focuses on residential concrete work, from building foundations and foundations to floors and walkways. Devremink has also worked with stamped concrete and built a fireplace hearth, he said.
Although the company is based in Taunton, Devremink said he and his crew travel to work sites around the Marshall area.
“The first year was stressful just getting everything in place and staying on schedule.” Devremink said. Obtaining equipment was also a big hurdle in starting my own company. But business was growing.
Devremink said the difficult part of being a business owner is knowing that every decision now rests on his shoulders. There is also an added emphasis on producing quality work. “We want our customers to be happy.” He said.
Despite the challenges of starting the business, Devremink said he has enjoyed the experience.
“It’s fun to feel like I’m working for myself.” He said.