Loren Wood Builders Testimonial
by Ben Watters
Loren Wood Builders did not start out with dreams of being a builder. However, as a High School math teacher he worked on the side and during the summer breaks to supplement his income as a carpenter. With a math background putting the puzzle together on a project was very enjoyable. Naturally Loren started doing some projects on his own.
By 2010 and during a downturn in the economy Loren decided to build full time and left the world of academics. While Loren was working hard putting projects together, he struggled understanding the business of running a business. Wife Lindsay worked full time as well helping with bookkeeping, financial advisor and mother to three young children.
Growing up in Danville Illinois, Loren’s only business experience was as a worker for his father’s factory. The most important part of working for his dad, David Wood, was observing how he treated people. Employees were treated as valued partners. That is the model Loren would use as he grew his business.
As Loren’s business started to grow, he leaned on David for business and financial advice, as well as moral support. This was invaluable as David was an experienced and successful entrepreneur. David’s mentorship was a key part of Loren Wood Builders growth.
David was not the only mentor as Uncle Rick McCanse, a builder in the Chicago area came to Bloomington to help and be a part of the business. His expertise and council played a huge part in the success of the business.
Loren Wood buys almost exclusively from Bender Lumber and says Bender Lumber has been “instrumental in his success”. Loren takes on some tough jobs and sometimes in hard to reach locations. Bender Lumber and their logistics team always develop a safe plan to successfully place materials near the job, regardless of the logistical challenges.
Bender Lumber salesman Terry Dodson works hand in hand with Loren. Loren said he has never heard Terry say “No” to any request. Terry admittedly says he can do that because the team at the Bloomington store “takes pride in getting the job done”.
Loren has a team of over 60 employees which range from the trades to architects who will help his clients from start to finish. Loren’s two main goals are to be the most sought after design build company in Southern Indiana and to be one of the best places to work in his field. At Bender Lumber our goal is to be the best in support of our customers like Loren Wood Builders.