“We built our own house 20 years ago,” says Cindy Rhoades. It marked the beginning of her and her husband J.D.’s work in construction. “There was a lot that we did wrong, but we learned how to do a lot of stuff.”
J.D. gained additional experience working with Neil Kopp and later completing roofing projects with Gideon Dixon, Cindy’s cousin. “We also learned a lot from Tina Sundstrom when she was building inspector,” says Cindy. “She showed us new techniques and tips along with helping us understand code requirements.”
“I work a 28-day rotating schedule,” says J.D. of his work at the coal mines. “On the 14 days that I’m off from the mine, we schedule roofing projects.” Beyond roofing, the Rhoades have built a pole barn, remodeled a basement, and more.
In summer 2020, while the nation was grappling with a pandemic, the Rhoades’ business saw a bright spot. Over the summer, each of their sons, and their now daughters-in-law, ended up quarantining with them for at least part of the season. “Every member of our family worked on Wayne and Charlotte Daigh’s roof,” says Cindy of one project from that summer.
Beyond pulling in occasional help from their sons, J.D. and Cindy also employ young people in the community. While earning a little money, they gain important life skills. Cindy has long served as a math instructor for Eastern Wyoming College and has frequently helped in the math department at Newcastle High School, giving her much experience working with young people. Today she works for the construction business full time.
While the Rhoades have occasionally left business cards around town, their company has primarily grown by word of mouth. “We have gone from completing a roof or two a summer to a full schedule,” says J.D. He notes that an expanded tool selection has accompanied the growth. “We started out with one nail gun and a little air compressor.”
Most recently, they purchased a dump box trailer, no longer needing to borrow the 1955 vintage dump truck from a friend. While the use of the truck was appreciated, Cindy says she doesn’t miss shoveling shingles to lighten the load so the truck would lift to dump. “It was a great conversation piece, but I don’t miss it,” she laughs, noting that the truck had to be parked on a hill in hopes it would roll start.
Long-term, the Rhoades may pursue the construction business full time. For the time being, however, quality work and resulting referrals keep their calendars full. The company can be reached at 307-746-6481.
