Interview with Valerie Boyd, owner
Q: How did you get involved in this business?
A: My husband comes from a family of iron workers. They are a crew of amazing people who put their lives on the steel everyday. Learning about “working at height” and importance of the right “fall protection equipment” is always the top priority on every job. My husband, owning a structural steel company, has a vested interest in his employees working safely so they can make it home to their families every night. Safety has become a priority in construction, and fall protection has been listed as the No. 1 violation, according the Occupational Safety and Health Administration statistics. As a 100 percent women-owned business, small business enterprise and disadvantaged business enterprise, we are growing our business model to bid more government both state and federal work.
Q: What distinguishes you from other businesses in your category?
A: Certification is a distinguishing benefit. Getting these certifications through the city of Denver was not an easy task, but I hope we can help with requirements of the state and federal government when hitting necessary quotas. There is high demand for safety equipment during this time of increased construction. We have a local presence and are revealing a national online resource, , in the next month that will offer safety equipment sales from more than manufactures nationwide
Q: What do you like best about your line of work?
A: I have enjoyed learning the needs of the different lines of construction. We have realized the importance of hands-on training and tool-box talks with the crews. We are building our model around what the clients need and want: affordable, comfortable, quality safety equipment options. We have fall protection lines that are U.S.-made. Sometimes companies are looking for custom built options — we have that, too. I have loved learning and watching Colorado Safety Supply company grow based on what my clients need.
Q: What is your business’ biggest challenge?
A: I think our biggest challenge would be awareness. We are a new business and working with new clients everyday, but there are many business who could use our help. We are a growing business around our clients’ needs, so let us be aware of what you need.
Q: Something people might be surprised to learn about you or your business:
A: We have a warehouse/retail store off Sixth Avenue and I-225, but I like making deliveries to the businesses or their job sites. I like seeing what it is you’re working on and find out how we can help. As Colorado Safety Supply Company grows and we are finished with our remodel of the store, it will be open for public with extended hours. Today, call and we can meet there or I will deliver your product direct.
Profile
Business: Colorado Safety Supply Company
Address: 700 Billings St., Unit B
Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday
Founded: 2012
Contact: 720-299-1302,
Employees: 3
