Can a story about a manhole inspire you?

By Luma Wealth on December 18, 2019

Learning from a Luminary Leader’s Uncommon Path to Success

More than 30 Luma Wealth clients and guests toasted to the success of Luminary Leader, Tari Rivera, founder and president of Regency Construction Services, Inc., one of the largest construction services companies in the Cleveland region. With quiet confidence and humor, Tari took the audience along as she described her journey. She began working in her grandfather’s engineering firm as a teenager, being lifted into manholes as an intern on a large engineering project, graduating as the only female in her engineering class, working and learning from her first professional job and finally, founding Regency Construction Services, Inc. with the vision of competing with national firms to deliver customer focused, quality construction solutions.

Building success one “yes” at a time
During the 25 years since the company’s founding, under Tari’s leadership, Regency has evolved from partnering with more established firms to bidding against “friendly” competitors and winning large, complex projects. Today the firm’s portfolio includes work with Cleveland Clinic, MetroHealth Systems, First Energy Stadium, St. Joseph’s Academy and the Cleveland Zoo.

Committing to an inclusive environment
Aside from revenue success, Tari is most proud of Regency’s ability to demonstrate its commitment to diversity and inclusion. The impact of the firm’s recruiting and co-op efforts are seen in the firm’s workforce profile ─ the firm counts 38% of its professional staff as female in an industry where 10% is the average.

Sharing her inspiration
Throughout the conversation, Tari freely answered questions and shared her tips for success. As an avid reader, she cited Becoming by Michelle Obama as a favorite inspiration. When asked what she’s learned along the way, Tari said, “Don’t be afraid to ask for things. I’ve learned that you only get what you ask for.” She recommends always being prepared with facts and figures and doing the homework it takes. And she touted the benefits of having a trusted group of outside advisors to act as a sounding board and provide specialized expertise.

Celebrating women
For the Luma Wealth attendees, the engaging evening continued with cocktails and food in the Regency boardroom. In parting, the lively group expressed appreciation and anticipation for the next Luminary Leaders event.

Luma Wealth’s events are designed to inspire women to succeed and are held throughout the year. Please join us as we learn, connect and celebrate together.