Today we’d like to introduce you to Oriel Selver.
Hi Oriel, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My name is Oriel Selver I am a mother, business owner, and author. I am the owner of Selver and Co Construction. I earned my early education in Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands where apart from gaining exposure to the rigor and work ethic that comes with being taught in the Caribbean, I also gained a wealth of exposure to working along with others that had different ethnic backgrounds and cultures. My internal drive and perseverance were first sparked when I witnessed my father build from the ground up, a lucrative and successful business, Selver’s Air Conditioning, while residing in Providenciales. My dad was my first actual example of what an entrepreneur looked like, He had celebrity clients and some of the biggest contracts on the island.
My dad owns an air conditioning and appliance repair company in the Turks and Caicos Islands. After high school, I pursued my career in nursing but after watching my dad age I began to think about who’s going to continue the legacy he had started. I asked him “Daddy what’s going to happen to your company when you decide to retire, he replied I guess I will sell it.” That made me think about a beautiful legacy stopping where it began, so I told him I’d go to school for Air Condition Technology. I enrolled at Atlanta Technical College and after completing that program successfully I returned to obtain my Certification in Construction Management. I know that made him proud but that was only the beginning.
I began my construction management career in Atlanta, GA.at a prominent general construction firm, where I played an instrumental role as an HVAC technician while gaining experience as a Project Engineer and Estimator. I have worked on several high-profile projects while being promoted within three months to Project Engineer to Estimator work at the Obama Presidential Center. I assisted as an estimator managing the $500 MM, 225,000 SF of flooring, base, and ceiling based on CD interim documents. In addition to my professional career, I have over ten years of volunteer experience working with Habitat for Humanity, the National Association of Women in Construction, and Women in HVAC. I have also designed, developed, and taught classes as an Adjunct Professor with the Atlanta Technical College Continuing Education. I desire to help enrolled students and assist them in be the next generation of construction professionals by teaching safety and compliance in addition to important business-related skills.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
There was nothing smooth about this road. I’ve dealt with rejection even though I was qualified for the position. I’ve also dealt with sexual harassment, and this is never acceptable, but the best thing I did was join the National Association for Women in Construction Atlanta chapter. This beautiful group of women supports each other in all aspects of life but most importantly assists with maneuvering through this male-dominated field with grace and dignity, I am proud to be a member.
As you know, we’re big fans of Selver and Co Construction. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Selver and Co Construction specializes in material takeoff, cost estimates, vendor management, and site supervision. We are located in Atlanta Ga, but we have clients in several different states including Tennessee and South Carolina.
What sets the business apart is it’s female owned and operated. What I am most proud of is my recent accomplishment as an offer, I wrote a children’s book titled Connie Loves Construction. This book was written to bring awareness to the fact that women are present in the construction industry and to encourage the youth to follow their dreams. I instruct a few classes in the continuing education department focusing on HVAC and construction core.
What do you think about happiness?
My happiness comes from spending time with my loved ones. People often think things like money or luxury leads to happiness, but some healthy life practices may be the key. Simple experiences like spending time with friends and family or practicing gratitude may promote a healthier outlook on life.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.selverandco.com
- Instagram: @selverandco
- Facebook: @selverandco
- Linkedin: Oriel Selver
Image Credits
Charlie’s Photography – Charlie Mathurin Providenciales Turks and Caicos Islands Dionique Designs – Jasmine Jones Atlanta Ga
