Matt Henderson Construction Testimonial
by Ben Watters
When is it appropriate to tell a client “No”? According to Matt Henderson “Never”. Matt believes, even if the request was not something he specializes in, his customer has honored him with the question and a problem to solve. Matt will make every effort to network or connect his customer with the entity or person who is an expert. Matt feels by being the solutions company he will always be in the right place to secure the contract when in his skillset.
Matt is a remodeling contractor specializing in kitchens, baths, windows, and other Home Improvements projects. He started his business, Matt Henderson Construction, after working in the lumber and building materials business under our Bloomington Bender Lumber store manager Ed Craig, then with “Payless Cashways”, a lumber chain of years gone by. This is where Matt built a foundation and inquisitiveness to learn many skills that he uses today.
Getting his construction business started in 2003, Matt started flipping homes for investors who allowed him to try any activity he felt he wanted. Digging into framing, roofing, and even tile work expanded Matt’s expertise. Soon Matt was ready to take on contracting work outside of the investor group.
To grow, Matt needed help. This help came in the form of “trust”. Matt needed to be able to sell higher-end and expensive remodeling jobs but had little working capital. By managing a small credit account from Bender Lumber and creatively managing due dates and scheduling, Matt was able to expand his business. Today this would be called a Managers Account.
Matt says, "he opened his business with an F150 and some tools". Bender Lumber has helped Matt expand his company, and by not saying "No" partnered with him.
Matt’s “never quit” attitude came from his grandfather, who was a WWII vet that would give Matt tools, instead of toys, for Christmas. Matt admittedly says he was always interested in construction and tools more than pen and paper. He has a few schoolteachers who would attest to that.
Matt has a long list of people he gives honor as helping him be the man he is today, from former coaches, community leaders, and even former Bender Lumber store managers. Today Matt partners with our local Bedford Bender Lumber team of Salesman Darren Kenny and Manager Melissa Hilkey. These two make sure Matt has what he needs and gets the supplies he needs when he needs it.
Matt is open to what the future brings, as change is inevitable. Until then, he is committed to saying “yes” to his many clients who depend on him to provide a quality job without a corner cut. Thanks, Matt, for trusting Bender Lumber to be the Company to partner with as you grow your influence in the area.