366 | Moving Forward Together Through Employee Ownership with Benjamin Gardner

Benjamin Gardner is the Chief Executive Officer of Dekker Designs and a working principal of the D/P/S commercial group, Benjamin is dedicated to improving the built environment using skills acquired from combined backgrounds in architecture, construction, and construction management. Benjamin has been with Dekker/Perich/Sabatini since 2001, and has led multiple project teams through all phases of planning, design, and construction administration. His years with D/P/S have given him a breadth of project experience that informs his unique understanding of the issues faced by developers, educators, and the communities in which the firm does business. Benjamin also has a long history of developing his family-owned properties, including hotels, a Montessori preschool and elementary academy that serves over 200 students, which he co-founded with his wife. They have recently developed a 78 bed senior living facility that is adjacent to the schools and it provides an intergenerational experiences for both seniors and students. His background provides him with a clear understanding of commercial real estate development, including mixed-use, retail, and civic properties. This episode is sponsored by the coaching company of the host, Paul Zelizer. Consider a Strategy Session if you can use support growing your impact business. Resources mentioned in this episode include: Dekker Design site LEED Certification What is an Employee Stock Ownership Plan? Positive Energy Solar Awarepreneurs Interview (ESOP company) Central New Mexico Community College Paul's Strategy Sessions Pitch an Awarepreneurs episode