Jade Richardson brings over 30 years of experience in the construction industry to Road Builders Corporation, a Native-Hawaiian owned small business.

As President and Owner, Jade’s notable accomplishments can be attributed to her unwavering commitment and ability to overcome obstacles. She understands the value of strong relationships and the importance of promoting a healthy work-life balance for all employees.

Located on the Island of Oahu, Road Builders offers a comprehensive range of construction services with an emphasis on asphalt pavement reconstruction and resurfacing. What sets Road Builders apart is their ability to work as a team with vision and focus in providing quality services.

As a woman entrepreneur, Jade has faced challenges in this male-dominated industry, and fully understands that you cannot take anything personally. “For me, I just do what I do, and I don't worry about anyone else,” she said. Jade also acknowledged that there’s still progress to be made in terms of inclusivity, but she’s witnessed positive changes over the years. In Hawaii, there’s greater acceptance of women in construction and more opportunities for women to own businesses in the industry.

Reflecting on her journey as a woman entrepreneur, Jade is most proud of the relationships she’s built over the years. These relationships have been instrumental in the growth and success of Road Builders.

Jade’s commitment to continuous learning led her to discover the MBDA Enterprising Women of Color Business Center through Central Pacific Bank. Recognizing the value of the Center, Jade enrolled in the YWomen in Business Accelerator, facilitated by Mariko Gordon, finding it to be an awesome experience. She appreciated the camaraderie among the women entrepreneurs and the resources provided by the Center.

“I truly enjoyed my experience with Mariko and the cohort. What an amazing group of women, and Mariko really is a bad a**!” Jade shared. “She’s given me a different perspective on the analysis of my financials. I really need to work more on the business and less in the business.”

Looking ahead, Jade’s goals for Road Builders include setting up a succession team and ensuring a smooth transition for the future. She recognizes the importance of an exit plan and is focused on the business’s strategic aspects, allowing the day-to-day operations to be handled by her capable team.

To her fellow woman entrepreneurs and small business owners, Jade offers the following advice: “Learn to get over your mistakes and setbacks, that failures are going to happen, and that how you deal with that determines whether you’re going to succeed. Construction is cyclical. You need to understand where you are in that cycle. Right now, I have to make sure I have everything in place so the company can continue.”