Cheryl McKissack Talks Generational Wealth, Thriving Black Business, Leadership + More

Summary

In this inspiring interview, Sarah McKissack, the fifth-generation President and CEO of McKissack & McKissack, the oldest minority and women-owned design firm in the U.S., discusses the company's rich history dating back to 1905. From her great-great-grandfather's journey as a slave to becoming a master builder, to her own mother's fight against racial and gender barriers in business, McKissack highlights the importance of entrepreneurship and representation in construction. She shares her experiences and insights on maintaining a legacy, the impact of the pandemic on the industry, and her commitment to nurturing the next generation of black professionals in STEM.

Takeaways

• 🏗️ The McKissack & McKissack construction firm has a rich history dating back to 1905, making it the oldest minority and women-owned design firm in the United States.
• 👥 Sarah McKissack is the fifth generation to lead the company, emphasizing the importance of generational wealth and black ownership in business.
• 🧱 The company's roots trace back to a great-great-grandfather who was a slave and taught the trade of brick-making, highlighting a legacy of overcoming adversity.
• 🎓 McKissack & McKissack's third and fourth generations were the first black licensed architects in the country, with licenses 117 and 118 in Tennessee.
• 🏛️ The firm has contributed significantly to the construction of HBCUs, colleges, and over 6,000 black churches, showcasing its impact on black communities.
• 💼 Sarah initially pursued a career outside the family business, but eventually took over after her father became ill, demonstrating adaptability and commitment.
• 🚧 The company has been involved in large-scale projects such as the World Trade Center and JFK airport, showcasing its capability in managing significant infrastructure.
• 💡 Sarah has started a new firm, Legacy Engineers, to mentor black engineers and promote black entrepreneurship in the engineering field.
• 🌐 The importance of MWBE (Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprises) programs is highlighted as a means to combat systemic racism and create opportunities for minority business owners.
• 🎓 Sarah's educational background from Howard University is underscored as a foundation for her success, emphasizing the value of a historically black college education.
• 👣 The script touches on the challenges faced by black professionals in the industry, including racial bias and the need for representation and mentorship.

Q & A

What is the significance of the year 1905 in the history of McKissack & McKissack?

The year 1905 marks the founding of the McKissack & McKissack construction firm, making it one of the oldest minority and women-owned design firms in the United States.

How many generations of the McKissack family have been involved in the business?

The current president and CEO, Sarah McKissack, represents the fifth generation involved in the business, with plans for the sixth generation to continue the legacy.

What is Sarah McKissack's view on combating systemic racism?

Sarah McKissack believes that the best way to combat systemic racism is through entrepreneurship, particularly emphasizing black and Latino ownership.

What is the story behind the McKissack family's entry into the construction industry?

The McKissack family's involvement in construction began with Sarah's great-great-grandfather, who was a slave and taught the trade of making bricks. After gaining his freedom, he gave 365,000 bricks to a wealthy family in Tennessee, contributing to the construction of the Cheers Mansion.

Who were the first black licensed architects in the United States, and how did they overcome racial barriers to obtain their licenses?

Moses McKissack III and his great-uncle were the first black licensed architects in the country, with licenses 117 and 118 in Tennessee. They faced repeated denials due to racial prejudice but eventually passed their licensing exams with the help of a sympathetic board member and went on to receive licenses in 22 other states.

What role did Sarah McKissack's mother play in the company's history?

Sarah's mother took over the business in 1983 after Sarah's father became ill. Despite having no background in the business, she successfully led the company, even suing the city of Nashville to secure work opportunities for black firms.

What impact did the Women's Business Act of 1988 have on Sarah McKissack's mother's ability to run the business?

The Women's Business Act of 1988 allowed women to borrow money from banks, which was not possible when Sarah's mother took over the business in 1983. This act likely facilitated her ability to secure financing and manage the business.

How has McKissack & McKissack contributed to the construction of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs)?

McKissack & McKissack have built numerous HBCUs throughout the South and the Northeast, significantly contributing to the infrastructure and legacy of these institutions.

What is Sarah McKissack's approach to maintaining a diverse workforce in her construction projects?

Sarah has implemented a workforce development program that not only provides opportunities for minority and women-owned businesses but also actively refers candidates to construction sites, ensuring a diverse and inclusive workforce.

How has the COVID-19 pandemic affected McKissack & McKissack's operations?

The pandemic initially caused some shutdowns, but many of McKissack & McKissack's projects were deemed essential and continued. However, the cost of doing business increased due to new safety protocols and material shortages.

What is Sarah McKissack's perspective on the importance of MWBE (Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprises) programs?

Sarah believes that MWBE programs are necessary to break through systemic barriers and should be expanded to increase the percentage of contracts awarded to minority and women-owned businesses, thus fostering more equity and opportunity.

What advice does Sarah McKissack give to young people interested in pursuing a career in construction or entrepreneurship?

Sarah encourages young people to study STEM fields, take advantage of internships, and explore various roles within the construction industry, such as engineering, architecture, human resources, and business management.