August 28, 2020

DISTRICT MANAGER SPOTLIGHT: BRETT BONNER

by Star Building Systems

DISTRICT MANAGER SPOTLIGHT: BRETT BONNER

Name:

Brett Bonner

Hometown:

Eufaula, AL

Field Sales Region:

Southern Pacific

Number of Years at Star:

3

Educational Background (college, university, degree, certifications, etc.):

Civil engineering degree from Auburn University and licensed professional engineer

How did you get started in the construction industry?

As a small child, I wanted to be an architect. My best friend and I built a 5-story tree house from lumber yard scraps before we made it to 9th grade. I started as a metal building design engineer right out of college.

What does Star Building Systems provide for their builders that set them apart from the competition?

Tools that actually price buildings in the field, continued training and personal service give Star Builders a huge competitive advantage in their market.

What makes Star Building Systems so effective?

Builder partnerships and teamwork. Builder partners who create and understand the scope of work for their project backed by a team of production and service is the key to success in the metal building industry.

Describe your day-to-day operations of a Star District Manager:

Windshield by day, computer screen by night.

What is something unusual that you’ve seen in the field?

California’s longest zipline. It soars from the ridge line over a private ranch that’s home to many Star buildings, not limited to farm buildings. The ranch has indoor soccer, basketball and volleyball, a shooting range and an amphitheater. The recreation is all for an annual employee retreat weekend.

What are the most common questions you receive from Star Builders in your region?

How long to get engineering? Can you help with this plan check response?

What’s the best thing about being a Star District Manager?

Making friends with builders. My district is far from home. It is great to have relationships around my territory that extend beyond SBS and discounts.

What is one piece of advice you would give to Star Builders?

Use Fastar whenever possible. Fastar pricing can be crucial when competing for low complexity work. With some creativity, it can provide an advantage for some projects.

Most memorable Star Building Systems moment:

My first National Sales Meeting. We were in Cancun, Mexico. I’ll never forget walking into the main meeting room and getting a true feel for the size and excitement.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I enjoy being outdoors. I like to play golf, rock climb, snow ski and camp in the backcountry. I also love football, cooking and yard games so tailgating is a favorite of mine.

Favorite sports team:

Auburn Tigers

Favorite celebrity:

Doug Clark

Favorite song:

Currently a timeless one, The Times They Are A Changin’ – Bob Dylan 1963

First concert:

I don’t recall the first. I’ve seen some great ones though. I was at Tom Petty’s last show.

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