While few local companies may boast annual revenues of more than $30 million, those behind the success of Exxel Pacific say the number of contracts signed is not the issue. "Volume is conditioned upon the people we have in place. We're really committed to getting the best possible people we can get, says Vice President Kevin DeVries.

"Team Exxel Pacific," as it's called, now numbers some 50 to 60 members. Each member is expected to respect not only the product, but the process. Above all, they must ensure certain standards are met at every site in safety, housekeeping, quality and organization. "Those are the building blocks," says Tim Spink, vice president and general manager.

According to Spink, Exxel Pacific ranks among the top 10 percent in safety qualifications of all members of the Associated General Contractors (AGC) of Washington.

Indeed, Exxel Pacific has built a reputation for excellence. Typically, clients approach the firm. Unlike most general contractors, Exxel Pacific rarely bids on jobs. Rather, it focuses on the privately negotiated market, providing a full turn-key, build-to-suit product. "We are a true design-build contractor," DeVries says. Exxel Pacific looks past mere sticks and bricks to the big picture.

Exxel Pacific was established in 1988, after the founders of Exxel Development decided they could do a superior job of construction on projects of their own design. The first assignment was a $3.5 million apartment complex in Burlington. Word soon spread about Exxel Pacific.

Today, Exxel Pacific is at work on projects near and far. It will soon complete a new facility for Peoples Bank in Mount Vernon, as well as several hotels along the I-5 corridor. Also in progress is a $6.5 million project in St. Louis, and one project valued at $13 million in Santa Rosa, Calif. All are the result of Exxel Pacific's ties to past and present clients, in addition to referrals from banks, attorneys and hotel developers. "They're all relationship driven," Spink says.

Doing it Right

Exxel Pacific prides itself on its expertise in the development arena, which permits greater insight into the issues faced by clients. Those at Exxel Pacific -- including DeVries, Spink, President Sid Baron and Director of Operation Bruce Eskeberg -- not only understand owners' positions, but can show them options never before considered. "We're strong in technical knowledge. We can separate the wheat from the chaff real quick," Spink says.

An owner can turn a project over to Exxel Pacific's staff, knowing it will be done right, on time and within budget. "It takes a lot to earn that comfort," Spink says.

Exxel Pacific goes the distance to help owners achieve their goals. It ultimately depends on its staff to meet those objectives. "You're only as good as the people around you," DeVries remarks. Sure companies pay lip service to the team concept, say Spink and DeVries. "We put our money where our mouth is. It's not just talk," Spink comments.

A Small Employee Pool

Unfortunately, it's becoming increasingly difficult to find long-term employees in the construction industry. DeVries says Exxel Pacific is looking to new graduates in engineering and construction management for its new superintendents and project managers. The company is willing to cultivate those who want -- as Spink puts it -- ownership in their careers and the company. In-house training is offered, as is upward mobility. After all, the staff needs to be knowledgeable about document sharing and teleconferencing to keep up Exxel Pacific's standards as far as 1,000 miles away. "We're truly in the information age," DeVries says.

Such technology is what's allowing Exxel Pacific to extend its reach beyond Whatcom County and across the country. A branch office in St. Louis is a possibility, as long as a solid infrastructure is in place. Yet, no matter how much Exxel Pacific may grow, it won't forget its dedication to quality and service or its roots in the community.

"Its base will always be in Bellingham," Spink says.