Discovering your true calling and aligning it with professional success is no easy endeavor. It is especially challenging to embark on this chosen career path as a single parent later in life. But for Big Sky Construction’s General Manager, Dina McMichael, climbing the ladder to success was quick, driven by passion, resilience, and determination.
“I found myself in my mid-40s not knowing what I wanted to be when I grew up. I learned that, over the years of teaching and being a stay-at-home mother, I was still building tangible skills that I could apply to my career,” McMichael said. “So, my advice to anyone is that it’s never too late to make a goal and chase a dream. I hope that I have also given my children the confidence that they can do anything, no matter when they start.”
However, McMichael attributes her current successes and accomplishments to her upbringing during those developmental years. With a father who taught her to be independent and a mother who reinforced the importance of pursuing her passion and taking on the responsibilities that come with it, she quickly realized that professional. success and personal satisfaction come from having a hardworking, motivated mindset.
As a high school athlete participating in both track and field and cheerleading, she learned the importance of communication and collaboration while staying attuned to the details that contribute to success.
“I disciplined myself, spending countless hours at the track working on the small details,” she said. “During one track practice, we spent hours focusing on breathing when running. So, being detail-oriented was instilled in me, and I still carry that into my business today.”
As the years passed, she fully realized her true passion for construction and renovation. She would often watch houses on websites like Zillow and follow established contractors and developers on television and social media. But while her interest in the industry was always a priority, it never overshadowed the importance of raising her four children.
“I was focused on being a mother, but life threw something unexpected my way,” she said. “My husband passed away, and becoming a widow forced me to pivot my plan…I realized time waits for no one, and it was time to start chasing my own dreams.”
Initially a client in 2020, she enjoyed observing the entire process of Big Sky Construction’s renovations to the main floor of her home. This was the spark she needed to seek involvement and employment with the company. She quickly reprioritized her own passions and interests in the construction industry.
“Through the renovation of my home’s main floor, I gained a better understanding of the scope and sequence of construction and realized that a well-run project equals a happy customer,” she said. “Starting with the company as a project manager, I applied my previous management skills from my teaching, sales, and office management to different areas of the business. In my current role, I get the best of all areas of the business. I still build relationships with our clients and oversee projects from the management perspective.”
Now sitting as the company’s general manager, McMichael oversees the entire company, leveraging her eye for detail and love of home renovations. Having been with the company for over three years and completing an average of roughly 50 residential and commercial projects per year, she understands the essential need for teamwork, collaboration, communication, and driven talent.
“From expanding Reformation Brewery’s catering and event space, to helping new businesses like CardCo in East Cobb and Playground Adventures in Holly Springs bring their visions to life, we’re proud to play a part in helping local businesses grow,” she said. “On the residential side, nothing means more to us than helping families create spaces that feel like home…We treat every project with the same level of care and craftsmanship… helping restore not just their homes, but their peace of mind.”
Currently celebrating 17 years in business, McMichael is grateful for the talented team members who make it all possible. And under the leadership of Dina McMichael, who leads by example with compassion, integrity, and an unwavering focus on service, Big Sky continues to raise the bar for the client experience. With Dina’s career only just beginning, she is excited to continue growing with Big Sky as they expand into other markets and states.
To learn more about Big Sky Construction Services, visit their website at www.BigSkyBuilt.com or contact Dina McMichael directly by calling 770-316-6782 or email Dina.McMichael@BigSkyBuilt.com.
