Igor Zikus Mentor
- Russian
- English
How I can help
My professional background
I work for Traylor Brothers a large nationwide Heavy Civil contractor. My current assignment is on the North Portal Bridge Project where I’m responsible for project management, staffing, procurement of material suppliers, establishing relationships with potential subcontractors, and ensuring the construction plan is both strategic and comprehensive. The project scope consists of replacing the existing Amtrak bridge with a new bridge, and the project value is $1.6 billion.
Previously I served as the Project Manager during the pursuit of the $3.2 billion HRBT project and as an Operations Manager where I led the team through contract negotiations with the VDOT and managed contractual and strategic relationships with key suppliers and the design team.
In my previous roles I also served as a construction manager where I was responsible for all contractual obligations, execution strategy, and maintaining and improving company relationships with small and socioeconomically disadvantaged businesses, the local contractors on matters related to small business subcontracting and supplier diversity.
Throughout my career, I led construction operations on some of the United States’ largest and most notable construction projects – including both, Tunnel and Bridge project projects across the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast where my career started.
How to work with me
What I can offer
In the past several years I have been asked to provide training and assistance to disadvantaged business enterprises to help these businesses grow, become self-sufficient, and more competitive in pursuing federally funded contract opportunities. I really enjoyed sharing the knowledge and helping owners strengthen their infrastructure and providing advice on how to increase capacity and the company’s profitability. My areas of expertise are listed below. I can provide a big-picture view of how large contractors work with small businesses and how small businesses can capitalize on those opportunities. Project management Proposal writing Risk management Human resources Safety Business plan preparation Construction management Cash flow review Contract documents Procurement requirements/regulations
My expectations for a successful mentoring relationship
I expect an open two-way communication and commitment from both parties, and I also hope to see that my advice can help entrepreneurs grow their businesses.
How entrepreneurs can prepare before we start
Make a list of strengths and weaknesses of their business, and where they see their business in 5 years.