Subcontractor Spotlight: Vision Painting and Decorating
Lakeside Alliance is proud to spotlight Vision Painting and Decorating, a second-generation and Black-owned painting company based here in Chicago. Responsible for all of the #ObamaPresidentialCenter painting, Vision Painting and Decorating will be one of the last businesses to complete their work on-site — helping to put the finishing touches on this historic monument.
Check out our Q&A with Vision Painting and Decorating President Edward “Eddie” McKinnie Jr.:
What led you to pursue the kind of work you’re leading today?
When I graduated high school, I had a choice: work, military or college. I needed some money, so I followed in my father’s footsteps and became a painter. Since then, painting has continued to grow on me and pull me back in despite the ebbs and flows. I took over my father’s business in 2009, renaming it from McKinnie & Sons to Vision Painting and Decorating. I enjoy slinging paint and, even though I’m not doing much of that now, I could still put on my painter’s whites and get out there. I have spent 35 years in the industry now.
What sets your business apart?
I truly believe it comes down to the quality of work we put out and the people we hire. Some people have not been given a second chance in life, or they may have a record, but we have never pushed anyone away because of that. We will give them a chance if painting is something they choose to do — and you have to choose to do this work. I adopted this from my father. He always gave people an opportunity to become a painter, to become a journeyman, to become a union tradesmen. If they don’t stay with us, that’s okay. We’re here to help them restore their life and get back on track.
What is something you like to do to motivate your team?
My approach is simple: treat everyone with respect. To be respected, you must also give respect. For some on our team, it’s also motivating to be a part of the vision to grow this company together. They know they’re a part of something special because there aren’t many Black, union contractors out here in the city.
What excites you the most about being a part of this historic undertaking?
One of the things that excites me the most is the fact that I am the only painter who can claim to have worked on both the Harold Washington Library back in the 90’s and now the Obama Presidential Center — the first Black mayor of Chicago, and first Black president of the United States. How is that for the circle of life? This project is a part of history that my team and I will be associated with. People will remember that for a few years before they forget, but I won’t. My children will know. My grandchildren will know. I can walk them through and say, “Granddaddy’s company did that.” The Center could have been in any other city, but it’s here.
What is your greatest hope for the outcome of the Center?
For the community, I hope the Center becomes a beacon of light and a place to be proud of. The President lived down the street around the corner from the place! He is part of Chicago. A part of us.
What advice would you give to others who are working to break into this industry?
Know that this is what you want to do. Get the education you need to be successful, and keep learning. In construction, you have to be able to adapt because no job is the same and no team is the same. Being able to adapt and stay patient is something that you need to be able to do. As long as you’re solution-focused and not problem-focused, you will be fine!