Title: Owner

Company: Gates Construction, Inc.

Location: Rougemont, N.C.

Sue Gates has been in the construction industry for more than 15 years. In 2000, she opened her company, Gates Construction, Inc., where she oversees all aspects of the company. Initially, she became involved in her profession because she had an early interest in land and construction, and helped her father subdivide his farm land. Ms. Gates has a background in construction as a foreman in custom builds.

Throughout her work-week, Ms. Gates oversees on-site jobs from start to finish, handles design and estimates, budgets, works with clients, and handles contracts and negotiations. During these tasks, she draws upon her expertise in construction management and business, as she has taken coursework in the topics at NC State University. In five years, Ms. Gates plans to continue on the same road, grow the business and make more investments in properties.