Deck Expo Series: Building Better: The Craft, Content, and Leadership of Jeremy Wilkins

Building Better: The Craft, Content, and Leadership of Jeremy Wilkins

In this episode of the We Love Deck Builders Podcast, April Edwards sits down with Jeremy Wilkins, co-founder of Deck Van Gogh and the creator of @DeckMasterJ. With over 20 years of experience in the trades, Jeremy has not only mastered deck building but also built a business focused on education, transparency, and innovation. From ultra-lean leadership to real-time client designs, Jeremy shares his journey and his approach to creating a successful deck company and brand.

Jeremy’s insights go beyond just building beautiful decks; they delve into leadership, systems, and building a community-driven brand. His approach to growing a company reflects his deep commitment to making a positive impact, both in the industry and in the lives of those he works with.

Jeremy’s Journey: From Construction to Innovation

Jeremy’s passion for construction began at an early age, influenced by his family’s entrepreneurial spirit. Despite early challenges in the industry, Jeremy’s drive and love for building kept pulling him back to the trades. His diverse experiences, from working at Home Depot to managing teams at Office Depot, shaped his approach to business. These experiences helped him develop a deep understanding of systems and processes—an understanding that would eventually lead him to launch Deck Van Gogh in 2017.

Deck Van Gogh: Streamlining the Deck Building Process

Deck Van Gogh wasn’t just about building beautiful decks—it was about solving the inefficiencies that exist in the industry. Jeremy and his partner Max Griffin created a software solution to bridge the communication gap between the sales team and builders, allowing for seamless project management. Their software helps design and estimate decks in real-time with clients, eliminating delays and improving accuracy in material calculations and job scheduling. This system is a game-changer for deck builders, helping them reduce errors and save time while improving their bottom line.

Key Lessons on Leadership and Transparency

For Jeremy, leadership is about more than just managing a team; it’s about creating a transparent, educational environment where people can thrive. His commitment to transparency has helped him build trust with both clients and employees. Whether it’s sharing the challenges and successes of running a business or providing educational content, Jeremy believes in giving back to the community. His approach to leadership emphasizes integrity, clear communication, and the power of ongoing learning.

The Future of Deck Van Gogh and Its Software

While Deck Van Gogh has already made a significant impact in Greenville, Jeremy and his team are working to expand their innovative software to help other builders streamline their operations. The software is still in development but has already proven to be an invaluable tool for the company. Jeremy is excited to eventually offer the platform to a wider audience, helping deck builders optimize their processes and increase profitability. The goal is not just to scale Deck Van Gogh but to help the entire industry improve its systems and efficiency.

Jeremy’s Philosophy: Helping Others Succeed

Jeremy’s core philosophy is simple: help others succeed by creating systems that make their jobs easier and more efficient. Whether it’s designing a deck with a client in real-time or providing educational content to other builders, Jeremy is committed to helping others grow and improve. He believes that business owners should focus on systems first, then scale. Trying to grow without the right systems in place only leads to chaos and burnout.

Final Advice: Systems Before Scaling

When asked for advice for deck builders who want to grow but feel stuck, Jeremy’s message is clear: “Focus on your systems before you scale. Trying to grow without solid systems in place will lead to chaos. Take the time to perfect your process first, then scaling will feel natural.” This advice speaks to his experience and understanding of the struggles business owners face when trying to grow too quickly.

Jeremy’s journey is a testament to the power of innovation, leadership, and integrity in business. Whether you’re a deck builder or entrepreneur in any field, his approach to business is one worth following.

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