From Commercial Construction to Contracting Confidence

by Kimberly Randle - July 2, 2024

When Jonathan Rosson established his business at the age of 21, he could never have imagined that one day his core client would be the government.

T and J Construction of Western Arkansas, LLC, based in Mena, has grown and expanded substantially over the years, now not only supporting Rosson and his family, but a number of crews that he mobilizes to work in various areas of the state as needed.

In the beginning, Rosson built a reputable commercial business known for roofing and heavy equipment work. As the demand for his commercial services grew, Rosson looked at some other business arrangements to support his business expansion and then started looking more seriously at government contracting. He bid on some things locally that he knew that he could manage, and then started to get more familiar with the process of seeking solicitations and responding to his proposals.

With each contract he won, Rosson gained more confidence. Then in 2020, in the midst of Covid, he was awarded a major contract in Oklahoma that, when all was said and done, totaled almost three-quarters of a million dollars. It propelled his business to a new level. He also started looking into not only federal government opportunities, but those at the state and local level, which he has successfully performed, as well. His most recent contract award with the U.S. Forest Service totals $20,600.

Rosson sought the assistance of the Arkansas APEX Accelerator to help him stay up to date on the evolving government contracting landscape. Initially, his counselor helped him with his federal SAM registration, and in recent years, Procurement Counselor Kimberly Randle has assisted Rosson with expanding his visibility into diversified opportunities and clarifying some contractual requirements and responsibilities.

When Randle inquired what Rosson enjoyed most about working with the government, he did not miss a beat in stating that the professionalism of the contracting officers with whom he has worked has made a tremendous impression on him and motivates him to complete each contract efficiently and thoroughly. He also wanted to convey that Arkansas APEX Accelerator has played a key role in helping him gain the know-how, capability, and capacity to go after a wider range of contract opportunities, which has allowed his business to continue to grow and prosper. He encourages others to take advantage of Arkansas APEX Accelerator services, all at no cost, and to not overlook the potential benefits that government contracting offers small businesses.  

To see how Arkansas APEX Accelerator can assist you in securing state, local, or federal government contracts or for more information on our services that are offered free of charge, please contact us at APEX@uada.edu.