
SHOUT OUT TO DISADVANTAGED BUSINESS ENTERPRISE (DBE)…
Brian Sims, CEO - Evergreen Sign Company (DBE Certified)
Why did you choose a career in the construction industry?
I chose the construction industry because it gives me a real sense of accomplishment, where I can see the results of my work firsthand. I enjoy using creativity and problem-solving on the job, and working as part of a team makes every project both challenging and fulfilling.
What do you love most about your job, trade, and/or specialty?
I love the signage industry because it mixes creativity with practical work, which makes it exciting. It gives me the chance to design and create signs that communicate a message, brand, or identity in a bold way. I enjoy seeing how signage can change spaces, guide people, and leave a lasting impression, all while being an important part of any business or public place. Each project is different, so there’s always variety and new opportunities to get creative.
What advice would you give to other people looking at a future in construction or the trades?
If you’re thinking about a future in construction or the trades, my advice is to dive in with a strong willingness to learn and work hard. Getting hands-on experience is really important, so don’t worry about starting at the bottom, it’s all part of building your skills. The trades offer plenty of chances for growth, stability, and even running your own business if you’re driven. A good work ethic and learning from those with experience can take you a long way. Also, be open to learning new techniques and tools because the construction industry is always changing.
How have your life experiences helped you to succeed in business?
My life experiences have been the foundation of my success in business. Starting without the luxury of a formal business education meant I had to rely on the school of hard knocks. There was no classroom or textbook guiding me, just real-world lessons learned through trial and error. Those experiences taught me resilience, how to bounce back from failure, and the importance of perseverance. Not going to college meant I had to figure things out on my own, which forced me to be resourceful and take calculated risks. When I started in business, I didn’t have a business plan, but I had a strong sense of intuition and a relentless work ethic. I learned early on that building relationships were critical, and knowing how to deal with people is often more valuable than anything you can learn from a book. Negotiating, motivating teams, and managing conflicts, these are all skills honed by being in the trenches..
What is the coolest project you’ve been a part of and why?
One of the coolest signage projects I’ve been a part of was the SR-99 tunnel project in Seattle. The SR-99 tunnel was a massive infrastructure project. Being a part of such a significant city project made the signage work especially rewarding. The tunnel required a variety of signage solutions, from safety and wayfinding signs to digital traffic displays. Each piece had to meet strict regulations and function seamlessly in a high-stakes environment. Seeing the signs in action once the tunnel opened, and knowing that they contribute to safer, smoother commutes for thousands of drivers daily, made this project incredibly fulfilling.
Evergreen Sign Company
1513 Central Avenue South
Kent, WA 98032
253.852.1354 i