Williamson-Johnson: Building success

COEUR d'ALENE — Jim Williamson and Bruce Johnson started Williamson started from nothing but experience when they incorporated their general contracting and construction management company in 2003.

Their first job was worth $400.

"We worked with literally no income for six months," Williamson said.

Now, Williamson-Johnson's projects include Windermere buildings in Post Falls and Hayden, the River Cress Professional Building in the Riverstone development, and even the American Legion building in Post Falls — among numerous other new buildings and remodels.

The partners employ nine people full time, and their company provides top pay and benefits.

"We like doing our little part for the Coeur d'Alene economy," said Williamson.

The company specializes in building and remodeling commercial buildings, though it also has built custom homes.

"Commercial projects are our forte," Johnson said.

A big part of what Williamson Johnson provides is the kind of service that allows business owners to concentrate on their business instead of being distracted by the headaches of the building process, the partners said.

Typically, the company deals with people moving from one spot to another, with situations where scheduling problems can lead to lost rent revenue, Johnson said.

"We try to be very mindful of our clients' predicament," Williamson said.

Williamson's role in the company is to take the projects from concept to budget estimating —including helping the owners and architect find common ground. Johnson handles the financial side of the business and manages projects, either with Williamson or they divide up the work.

They are extremely involved with the projects.

"When you contract with us, you're dealing every day with the business owners," Williamson said.

"That's part of what we sell," Johnson agreed.

Both bring with them extensive experience. Johnson has an accounting and finance background and has worked in the construction industry for 13 years. Williamson has been in the industry for 25 years and has a degree in architecture, construction and engineering technology.

How well they do together shows in their clients' tendency to come back.

"Our repeat business is the kind of feedback we're looking for," Williamson said.

"I think people perceive value and they appreciate the service. It becomes a no-brainer kind of decision."