Melinda Markus

CEO
Markus Homes, Inc.

A passion at an early age to see projects from start to finish developed into a career path for Melinda Markus of Markus Homes Inc. Markus’ love for people and the outdoors have crafted a perfect fit for a career in construction. “I have always had an aptitude for structural and creative design,” she said.

Markus sought out a university with a degree program in construction and design, which took her to the University of Missouri for her formal education. Markus Homes was founded more than 20 years ago when women in construction were a rarity. This quickly became a strong positive as clients felt they had “that female touch and understanding” that added to their home-building experience.

Q&A

Hometown: Little Rock, Arkansas.

What attracted you to your career? It has been my aptitude and desire from an early age. I have always loved the process of learning what makes things work.

First big break: In the beginning of my career, I was contracted to build two large custom homes on the Chenal golf course, a custom home for a very talented fashion designer, and almost 20 years ago, Entergy moved many of their executives to Little Rock. I had the privilege of building many of their homes. I received a great education in energy conservation in construction, which I have used throughout my career.

One word that describes you: Do I have to use one? Positive energy.

Hobby: Spending time with my family and friends is at the top of the list. Most of my best friends are people I met while building their homes.

Volunteer work: I am on the advisory board at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock for the Construction Management and Civil Engineering Department — what a great career path for students. This department has some of the most enthusiastic professors I have ever met.

What you love about what you do: I love driving through the neighborhoods of Little Rock and seeing the many homes I have built over the years. I have always said, “I want to build homes, not houses.” What a great feeling to know I have been a part of this process.

What is the accomplishment you are most proud of? I was selected to build and design two Symphony Designer Showcase Homes in the Hickory Grove neighborhood in Little Rock.

What’s one fact about you that others would be surprised to know? I am a Segway enthusiast. I will ride them at any opportunity.

As a child, I spent hours … doing anything outdoors.

What is your personal motto? Always give 110 percent.

What is left on your “bucket list?” Cruise, beach, lake, cruise, beach, lake, cruise, beach, lake … I would like to rent a yacht for four-to-eight couples for a week in the Caribbean.