As a premier residential remodeling contractor in Cypress, Texas, Christopher at Elevation Construction is committed to transforming your living spaces into the home of your dreams. His dedication to quality and client satisfaction makes him a trusted partner in any home renovation. With Christopher, you’re not just remodeling your house; you’re ensuring a seamless experience with a contractor you can trust. Trust Elevation Construction to elevate your home with precision and passion. His collaboration with Elizabeth Erin Designs further enhances the transformation process, combining design expertise with exceptional craftsmanship to create stunning spaces that truly reflect your vision.
When you think of construction, you might not immediately picture a former police officer and retired U.S. Navy Lieutenant Commander at the helm of a thriving renovation company. But Chris Tighe, the founder of Elevation Construction, is redefining expectations in the industry with his unique blend of military discipline, creative problem-solving, and an unrelenting passion for quality.
In a recent episode of Designing in 5D, Chris joined host Jodi Peterman to share his incredible journey from military service to running a successful property management and construction company. Here’s what we learned from their fascinating conversation.
The Military’s Influence on Construction
Chris’s journey into construction began in one of the most unlikely places: a forward operating base in Afghanistan. Tasked with overseeing the construction of operations centers, he learned invaluable lessons about managing resources, understanding plans, and leading diverse teams.
“I had to figure out everything from septic systems to electrical wiring,” Chris recalled. “It was a crash course in construction management, and it gave me the confidence to tackle any project by talking to the right people and finding creative solutions.”
This hands-on experience in a high-stakes environment shaped his approach to renovations today, teaching him to stay calm under pressure and adapt quickly to unforeseen challenges.
Elevation Construction: Built on Strong Foundations
After retiring from the military, Chris and his wife Linda started Elevation Construction, a property management and renovation company. What began as small-scale apartment renovations has grown into a full-service operation handling complex projects like converting an old bank into a coffee shop.
Chris attributes much of the company’s success to focusing on three key audiences: clients, internal team members, and subcontractors.
“It’s all about culture,” he explained. “When people feel like they belong and are part of something bigger, they’re not just working for a paycheck—they’re invested in the mission.”
Managing Expectations and Budgets
One of the most common challenges Chris encounters is managing client expectations, particularly when it comes to budget constraints.
“People don’t always know what they don’t know,” Chris said. “It’s our job to educate them. If your roof is leaking, it doesn’t make sense to spend $100,000 on a new kitchen first. We prioritize what will protect their investment.”
By providing clear, honest communication and offering realistic solutions, Chris ensures that his clients are informed and confident in their decisions.
Innovation in the Trades
Chris is passionate about modernizing the construction industry. He’s adopted remote team strategies, hiring administrative staff in Mexico to handle operations, finances, and quality control. This approach allows his on-site team to focus on what they do best—delivering exceptional results for clients.
“Construction will always need hands-on work,” Chris noted, “but the way we do business can evolve. Remote teams improve efficiency and elevate the quality of service we provide.”
A Legacy of Excellence
Looking ahead, Chris aims to expand Elevation Construction’s reach by entering the federal government market, tackling large-scale projects nationwide. He’s also developing educational resources to help other trades professionals streamline their operations and build sustainable businesses.
“I want to help others in the trades develop the systems and teams they need to focus on what they love while growing their businesses,” Chris shared. “That’s the legacy I hope to leave.”
Chris’s story is a testament to the power of grit, innovation, and integrity. Whether you’re in the construction industry or simply someone looking for inspiration, this episode of Designing in 5D is packed with valuable insights and takeaways.
Ready to hear more? Click here to listen to the full episode or click here to watch and discover how Chris Tighe is elevating the construction industry one project at a time.