Katie Fermin

Katie, you have a drywall business. What led you to this?

I grew up in the world of construction, and after having my four boys, decided it was time to jump back into the game. I quickly discovered my love for drywall, so I developed and grew my company from that.

What’s your favorite thing about what you do?

My favorite thing is working closely with homeowners and bringing their vision to life.

What’s your superpower?

Raising four sons, two of which are twins!

In the past, what have been your biggest obstacles in business? What helped you overcome those obstacles?

Some of my biggest obstacles have been establishing my reputation and people’s trust. Working hard every day to build relationships with people has helped me get to where I am today.

What is a piece of advice you’d give your pre-career 20 something self?

Don’t make yourself smaller to keep others comfortable. Blow that lid off and be who you were always meant to be.

If you have a bucket list, what’s your favorite thing you’ve checked off?

My bucket list is mostly travel-related. This year I’ve been fortunate enough to experience many new places including Jamaica (my favorite)!

What gets you up in the morning?

The thing that gets me up in the morning, besides my 4-year-old, is knowing that I am doing what I love and that I get to make a living working with some pretty awesome people along the way. I am super motivated by the daily hustle and knowing that the sky is the limit for me.

How would you like people to describe you or see you?

My hope is that when people think about me, they feel that I have been a positive influence or contributor in their life in one way or another.

When in your life have you felt most confident and why?

I am the most confident and content at this stage in my life. I am surrounded by people who love and support me and who want to see me succeed personally and professionally.

What has been your greatest achievement professionally?

My greatest achievement professionally is creating a successful company from literally nothing, and being the sole owner/operator of it all.

What is your favorite trait about yourself?

My ability to relate to people. Regardless of your background, ethnicity, experiences, etc, I love learning about people and their stories, and I genuinely take interest in whoever I’m engaging with.

Do you have any exciting ambitions for the future?

Yes! To make C3 a million-dollar company.

Are there any myths you’d like to bust about your profession?

I work in a male-dominated industry. Occasionally I run into someone who questions whether or not I am capable of handling my drywall business. I’ve yet to let anyone down and I don’t plan to start now.

What advice do you have for those starting a new business?

It’s hard as hell, but it takes a special kind of person to gamble on themselves and to do what it takes to be successful.

Do you have a favorite motivational quote?

“When things get tough, remind yourself that you are a warrior. Warriors don’t give up. Period.”

Katie Andrews is the owner of Core3 Drywall and specializes in residential and commercial drywall repairs, custom texture matching, and new drywall for remodels, additions, and more.