As described in previous newsletters, a series of LED lights will be installed along the Bridge Deck to illuminate the Arch Ribs and will have the ability to be programmed to change colors for special occasions. In charge of all this intricate installation is Disadvantage Business Enterprise (DBE) firm VT Electric, Inc.
Tony Tran, President of VT Electric, started his company just over 20 years ago and has worked on lighting projects throughout Southern California. His firm has installed roadway lights and traffic signals along the 405 Freeway in Orange County and decorative lighting systems as part of a beautification project in Beverly Hills. But the Sixth Street Viaduct Replacement Project (Project) is the largest operation VT Electric has worked on so far.
As each part of the Projects is constructed, Tony's team must embed their power conduits and wiring within the rebar and other elements tightly packed within the concrete. All of this preparation will allow VT Electric to install the color-changing LED lights once the Bridge Deck and Arch Ribs are completed.
Tony immigrated to America from Vietnam when he was just 14 years-old. He worked part-time for a contractor to help pay for his BS degree in Science and Engineering, then worked as a chief estimator and later as a general manager. These experiences taught Tony how to anticipate costs and meet project budgets. So why shouldn't he start a company of his own?
In 1999, Tony did precisely that when he started VT Electric. At first, the company focused on small projects with quick turnaround times. Over time, he was able to position the company to take on larger projects until it became what it is today. "Grow slowly but surely," Tony advises other DBE firms and entrepreneurs. "Stay determined and reinvest in [yourself] and in the business."
Entrepreneurship may seem like a long journey, but Tony has a mantra to remind him how to achieve his company's goals:
Stay true to what you are doing.
