Exercise Science major, Master’s in Business AdministrationOwner/Operator, Gaines Contracting LLC
Derek Gaines ’17 received his BA in Exercise Science before pursuing his MBA from Asbury’s Dayton School of Business. After earning his MBA in 2018, he launched his own business—Gaines Contracting LLC, which started as a residential remodeling company and has since shifted its focus to custom home building.
The construction world is nothing new to Gaines, having grown up with a father and grandfather who have both had successful flooring businesses. This experience paved the way for Gaines to start his own business.
“I wanted to take my love for business and combine it with something I had prior knowledge of, so that’s how I ended up in construction,” said Gaines.
Fostering relationships, building community and having clear communication are all skills needed in the construction world. Gaines spends time working with homeowners, subcontractors and his team to turn visions into completed projects.
“The best part about being in construction is being able to work side by side with homeowners and subcontractors to complete a project,” he said. “It is a great feeling whenever a job is completed and the homeowners are able to enjoy whatever it is they have been needing and/or wanting.”
Having received both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Asbury, Gaines had a lot to say about the impact the University had on him during his time here.
“Overall, the Business department had a huge impact on me. The idea of doing business God’s Way is a great basis of how everyone should approach their role in whatever profession they find themselves in. The significance of treating those around you, whether co-workers or customers, with respect and love, is great,” said Gaines.
His advice to current students:
“I would just say enjoy your time, it really does go a lot faster than you realize. Don’t take for granted the relationships that you will make and the friendships that will last a lifetime.”