A unique approach by C.W. Woods Contracting services on the new $50 million Bessemer City High School helped to open doors for minority contractors.  Work began on the school in the fall of 2008, was completed in December 2009, and opened January 2010.  Chris Woods, the firm's president, served as the project manager but his role in the project was about more than the contract, rather developing and nurturing relationships.  "It takes a contractor to help a contractor," said Woods. 

By working directly with each individual contractor, Woods helped to come up with value-engineering ideas that maximized cost savings to the owner.  The project was broken down into manageable packages for individual contractors to bid upon.  Woods said, "There was a minority bidding just about every package."  Packages included masonry, metals-structural steel, carpentry work, thermal-moisture, etc.  Woods oversaw their work throughout the course of construction, but also provided project administrators, which helped the contractors manage his staff, and helped them to be more efficient.  "We worked together as a team," said Woods.

The Birmingham Construction Industry Authority helped certified contractors prepare to bid the packages.  BCIA Certified Contractor Ron Sellers of KIMRO Painting was awarded the painting contract.  Sellers admired the hands on approach Woods took;  "He (Woods) was visible on the job site on a regular basis.  It was easier to get questions answered," said Sellers.

"Minority and women-owned contractors are highly skilled in their own areas of expertise, but many have not had proper training on the administrative side of the business", according to Woods.  Others may struggle with a lack of access to capital or even how to gain information on industry trends and upcoming jobs.  Woods approach to the Bessemer High School project gave minority contractors a level playing field.  "Everybody is given a fair opportunity to compete," said Woods.