I started building houses with my grandfather at the age of 14. He was very “old school” in his ways and we self performed all facets of construction on those houses, including all mechanical work, concrete, framing, roofing, trimming, etc. By growing up this way, I learned the importance of delegation, subcontractor specialization, introduction of new technology and how vital they are to the building process. I learned so much by being forced to perform all of those duties and I believe it makes me a more well-rounded builder because I can truly say ”I did it all!”. 

I graduated high school from Hershey, Nebraska near North Platte and attended the University of Nebraska-Lincoln where I met my wife, Alexis. Even though, I graduated with a degree in Industrial Technology Education, I did not choose the teaching route following my undergrad career, but I still use a lot of the skill sets I learned there, such as CAD, Building Technology and Small Engines. Following college, I worked in commercial construction for 3 years while doing side jobs building my own business by referral when, in February of 2009, my first son was born. After he was born, I was not able to work on additional side jobs, so I decided that if I did not pursue my dream of owning my own business, then I never would. In June of that year, I gave my notice and started what is today, Trademark Builders. I started out by changing light bulbs at commercial businesses that led to tenant finishes and bathroom and basement remodels that then led to building new homes. We have assembled a great and loyal group of subcontractors and here we are, 6 years and 4 kids later, and we couldn’t be more blessed!

-Jay Hiatt