David Williams started his career as a field guy. After attending the University of Florida, he saw an opportunity to further his career and better himself. His entrepreneurial side kicked in when the opportunity to create his own business presented itself.
In 2009, I lost everything due to the downturn of the housing market and instead of finding a different means of supporting my family, I decided to open a company and go all in, said Williams. Many people thought I was crazy. However, my beliefs in my abilities and my understanding of hard work were all I had to go on so I took a risk and made it happen.
Williams enlisted three others to start GeoPoint Surveying Inc., a professional surveying and mapping firm, in August 2009. After 15 years in operations, GeoPoint has now grown to $35 million and over 300 employees across various states.
Under Williams leadership, the firm has opened four offices in the past five months with plans for additional locations. GeoPoint has also expanded from land development and construction projects to now include a subsurface utility department.
He has been involved with establishing the culture that has allowed GeoPoint to receive best places to work nominations/wins as well as one of Tampas fastest-growing private companies. He has also been recognized by the University of Florida as an outstanding alumnus award recipient by the UF School of First, Fisheries, and Geomatics Sciences program.
The growth of the business has not only allowed him to become a successful business owner/leader but allows him to continue to give back to employees through jobs and opportunities as well as the community, said his staff. David is always striving to do the best for all of his staff and puts himself second to everyone else.
According to Williams, successful leaders have a knowledge base of their services, understand what they are providing, provide quality work, have great communication skills and are always leading by example.
Leaders should always be in tune with the team they are leading and understand that not everyone is the same nor fits in the same box, he said. I have the ability to understand others on a deeper level to sense their emotions to bring comfort, problem-solving and support. Fostering a happy work environment with genuine care can help everyone reach their full potential and create a safe place for everyone.
