Building Opportunity: Evelyn’s Journey

For Evelyn, building a business has meant more than starting a company, it has meant building a life rooted in resilience, family, and opportunity.

Her journey began alongside her husband, who first arrived from Honduras with experience in millwright construction. With years of hands-on work in the field, he developed the skills and confidence to eventually take a leap and start something of his own. Together, they decided to pursue that vision, stepping into entrepreneurship as partners in both business and life.

Like many small businesses, their beginning was uncertain. Early on, they often heard, “If something comes up, we’ll call you.” Opportunities were limited, and consistency was hard to find. Their first major break came through Keen Project Solutions LLC in Iowa, who gave them an opportunity that lasted two months. Shortly after, however, they experienced an eight-month period without work, where it tested their determination and forced them to question whether to continue.

They chose to keep going.

Since then, their path has changed significantly. What started with uncertainty has grown into steady work, larger projects, and expanding crews. Today, Evelyn and her husband co-own Friends Millwright Construction, established in 2019, and JE&BA Millwright Construction, launched in August 2022. While both businesses are rooted in millwright work, each has its own focus. Friends Millwright Construction specializes in machinery, particularly corn processing systems, while JE&BA Millwright Construction focuses on building structures, warehouses, metal work, and dump systems.

Their work now takes them across multiple states, such as Nebraska, Iowa, Illinois, and Ohio, with the potential for even broader opportunities in the future.

Behind this growth is a deep understanding of the industry and the complexity of building a construction business. A process that is far from simple that it requires navigating insurance, hiring employees, and completing certifications and trainings, such as welding, forklift operation, and OSHA requirements. Safety is a central part of their work and remains one of their highest priorities across every project.

Evelyn’s own journey into business ownership has also been shaped by her commitment to learning. She began by enrolling in Centro’s GED classes and later continued into business courses, where she developed foundational skills in planning, accounting, and operations. Even tasks like using spreadsheets and managing digital tools were skills she taught herself along the way, strengthening her ability to support and grow the business.

Although the idea for their business began while living in Iowa, Evelyn always intended to return to Nebraska. In 2021, that vision became reality when they moved back, establishing a home base with the space needed to store trailers, equipment, and materials essential to their work.

In the early days, Evelyn and her husband did everything themselves such as, working long, physically demanding 10-hour days in the field while also managing the logistics behind the business. Today, their roles have evolved, but they remain deeply involved in every aspect of operations. Together, they handle bids and contracts, purchase equipment, ensure trailers are fully stocked, and hire team members. They have also built a network of workers they can call on when new projects arise.

The nature of their work is constantly moving. Projects often require travel, long stretches of consecutive workdays, and time away from home, something Evelyn admits was not always easy. Initially, their goal was to keep the business small and invest in properties over time, creating stability and allowing for more time with their children. While their path has shifted, they have remained focused on balancing growth with family priorities. That balance is what makes their journey especially meaningful.

Today, despite the demands of the industry, Evelyn and her husband have created a life where they can be present for their children like attending school activities, sports, and everyday moments that matter. As parents of four—three girls and one boy—their home has become a central gathering place, reflecting Evelyn’s strong commitment to family and community.

In addition to her work in construction, Evelyn continues to stay engaged in learning and leadership spaces, including Centro’s Latina Leadership programs and classes that support personal and professional growth. Her motivation to keep learning has played a key role in her journey, helping her adapt, grow, and lead with confidence.

Looking ahead, their goal is to continue expanding their business in a sustainable way, moving toward more contract-based work rather than hourly projects, allowing for greater stability and long-term planning. Evelyn’s experience reflects the reality that building a business takes time, persistence, and the willingness to learn continuously. It also highlights the importance of relationships and connections. Seeking guidance, listening to different perspectives, and building a network of support have all played a role in shaping their path.

Her journey is a reminder that even when the road is uncertain, dedication and resilience can lead to meaningful growth, not just in business, but in life.