Who is this little book of MGC for?

Those of us who have been here for a while and have witnessed our evolutions and who want to know how to stay involved and on track.

Our new hires, who inevitably end up asking themselves, “Now I’m here, how does it all work?”

Potential new hires who are interested in MGC who want to make an informed decision about whether or not they want to come aboard.

Our business partners who are invested in MGC’s success and want to know the mechanics of things.

What is it for?

We’re going to attempt to answer the who, what, when, where, and why of Marksmen General Contractors. We’ll also try to answer some questions like:

“What’s this culture y’all keep talking about?”
“How does MGC work?”
“ What do all these acronyms mean?”

...and many more. Of course, this book is bound to cause more questions than it answers for our curious minds.

What's with the cowboys?

The western theme reflects the shared values between Marksmen GC and the cowboy: grit, clarity, courage, and conviction. Like the cowboy, we face the unknown, rely on our team, and get the job done with what we have. We value straight talk, earned trust, and quiet excellence. And it’s a natural fit, San Antonio is the birthplace of the American Cowboy, and it’s the place we’re proud to call home.

MGC: The Early Days

By Mark Baublit

Our story began in 2000, in a small shop where my father, Roger, and I worked shoulder to shoulder. Back then, we were Marksmen Construction and Millwork. With just two of us on the team, we took on millwork projects for custom homes and small commercial remodels. One guiding principle kept us on course: Focused on Excellence.

As the years passed, that focus helped us grow. By 2014,we reached a pivotal moment. I left my job as a Project Executive at Joeris, and teamed up with my brother-in law, Butch, to evolve our family business into what is now Marksmen General Contractors.

Today, we’re not just a company with a growing portfolio; we’re a team united by a passion for excellence. Our success isn’t measured by what we build, but by the dedication, talent, and heart of our people.

Whether you’ve been with us for years or are just joining the team, you’re part of something bigger. We embrace constant improvement, going above and beyond for our clients, and hold tight to our focus on excellence.

My dream for MGC is simple; that everyone finds their calling, that being here feels like working with friends, and that we are engaged in the important work God has put us here to do.

Lean in, give it your all, and enjoy every project!

MGC, Today, and Tomorrow

By Butch Dixon

In the early days, MGC was a small team trying to build a business that could sustain itself. Back then, a good client or a strong project was all it took to keep us going.

But as we grew, so did the challenges. Bigger projects and a larger team brought complexity and made it harder to stay connected. We realized we needed something more; a unifying purpose to guide us all in the same direction.

So, we looked inward. We adopted the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS), refined our core values, and started documenting the processes that set us apart. We expanded into new markets, broadened our scopes of work, and grew to $20 million in annual revenue, then doubled that. Still, we needed a clear target to aim for.

So, we set a ten-year goal: amaze every client, every time.

This goal isn’t just a lofty statement, it’s the heartbeat of everything we do. It aligns our mission and vision, keeps us rooted in our core values, and pushes us to elevate every interaction. It’s about doing the little things better than anyone else, over and over again.

Looking ahead, the road isn’t perfectly mapped, but that’s part of the excitement. We hold our plans with open hands ,and trust in God’s guidance. The best markets, clients, and projects often come from unexpected places, and we’re ready to adapt and grow with every opportunity. Our purpose isn’t just where we’re going; it’s about who we are today too. Together, we’ll amaze, one step at a time.

The Organization

Systems and structures and spreadsheets and scorecards are great. In fact, we couldn't exist without them. They permeate every aspect and department of our business. But when we talk about "the organization"—our corporate structure and how you fit into it—we’re not tied to a formula or one-size-fits-all approach.

We exist somewhere between the hierarchal working of the military and the spontaneity of a flash mob. We have enough structure to keep us aligned without feeling too structured or stuffy. Enough intentionality to stay focused without feeling controlling. Enough system to function without feeling like a cog in a big machine. What sets our organization apart is the way we collaborate across functions, levels, and departments. This flexibility makes us uniquely MGC.

We have built our business on the platform known as the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS). This system gives us a framework for setting direction, tracking metrics, refining processes, achieving goals, holding effective meetings, solving issues, and building the right team. Of course, as with most things; these are more guidelines than actual rules.

We keep things loose and adaptable because the world changes, and so do we. While our foundation is solid, we’re always evolving, innovating, and finding better ways to do what we do best. That’s what makes this organization not just a workplace but a place to grow.

The Departments

Each department and project team at MGC can feel like its own little island. They’re all strikingly similar in the ways that matter: values, mission, and heart. But uniquely different in the ways that spark innovation. Departments or teams might be miles apart in rhythm but every team has the same culture and values.

If each team is an island, how does MGC stick together without sparking inter-team warfare or turning into a pirate ship? Simple: MGC is the country. We share the same core; the same values and guiding principles, whether at HQ or on a job site. It’s what keeps us united, adaptable, and successful while still allowing space for each team’s unique flair and style.

How does this big-picture logic apply to each department?

Operations

Our boots on the ground, Ops makes sure projects are executed with excellence and efficiency. They’re the engine that keeps MGC moving forward and thriving.

Accounting & Administration

The custodians of our financial health, this team ensures resources flow where they’re needed most while keeping things organized, balanced, and running like clockwork.

Risk Management

The ever-vigilant protectors, they identify challenges before they happen, safeguarding MGC and minimizing risk across every facet of our work.

Estimating & Pre-Construction

From winning the job to project hand-off, this team lays the groundwork for success. They ensure every project begins with a clear budget, timeline, and scope so Ops can do what it does best, build.

Marketing & Business Development

The voice and vision of MGC, this team connects us with new opportunities, builds relationships, and broadcasts to the world what we’re capable of achieving.

Human Resources (HR)

The nurturers of our culture, HR focuses on attracting, developing, and retaining talent while ensuring every MGC team member thrives both personally and professionally.

Information Technology (IT)

The digital backbone of MGC, IT keeps our systems secure, efficient, and cutting-edge, enabling seamless communication and operations across platforms and tools.

The Hands That Build Our Success

At MGC, success is a coordinated effort. It takes a collection of specialized groups working together across departmental lines to drive our projects forward. These teams reflect the depth of our expertise, the strength of our culture, and the commitment we share to deliver excellence in everything we do.

Leadership

The compass guiding our ship, leadership sets the tone and direction for the company. They provide the resources and vision needed to support the organization.

FOCUS

Our young leaders’ team, FOCUS, champions MGC’s culture and fosters a sense of camaraderie.

Project Teams

From a lean two-person operation to a fully staffed team with interns, carpenters, and multiple layers of management, our project teams are built to fit the needs of each job. No matter the size, every team shares one purpose: delivering excellence and bringing the client’s vision to life.

Our Project Managers take ownership of budgets, client relationships, and team coordination; and our Superintendents are the backbone of our operations.

Building Great Things with Great People

By Mandy Baublit
Our Greatest Asset: Our People

If you’ve been here for more than a day, you've probably heard it said: our people are our greatest asset. This isn’t some platitude, it’s at the core of who we are and we really mean it. We pour significant time and effort into finding, supporting, growing, and nurturing the incredible talent that is our team. No matter your title or department, we're all in the business of construction. Simply put, we’re nothing without great people, top to bottom.

What Makes Our People Great?

It starts with having the right people. You’re part of this team because you embody our core values. These aren’t just some words on a piece of paper or a wall in the office, they’re the guiding principles of how and why we work. They’re fundamental to everything we do.

But greatness doesn’t stop at being the right person. Being great also means being in the right seat. That means understanding the key responsibilities of your role, embracing them wholeheartedly, and having the capacity to see them through. In other words, it’s about getting it, wanting it, and doing it well.

When we have the right people in the right seats, we create a team truly capable of amazing every client, every time.

Core Values

Our core values define what it means to be “one of us.” They’re not just ideals we aspire to; they’re standards we live by every day. These values shape how we approach our work, how we treat one another, and how we show up for our clients and communities. They set the tone for how we collaborate, solve problems, and overcome challenges together. More than just words on a wall or a poster in a job trailer, they represent who we are and what we stand for.

Recognizing our people

At MGC, living our values is something we actively celebrate. Every team member, at every level, is encouraged to recognize colleagues who embody our core values in meaningful ways. These nominations are collected, reviewed, and shared quarterly, shining a light on the moments that make us proud to be part of this team. It’s not about competition or awards; it’s about appreciation, connection, and sharing real examples of how our values shape our success.

By celebrating these moments, we remind ourselves of the bigger picture: who we are as a team and the impact we have when we live our values to their fullest.

Better today than yesterday.

At MGC, we believe growth is a continuous journey, not a final destination. Each day is an opportunity to improve, refine, and evolve. Our focus is on striving for progress, not achieving perfection. We embrace accountability as part of our culture, recognizing that mistakes are part of the process. When they happen, we take ownership, learn from them, and take action to improve. By fostering a mindset of continuous improvement, we encourage collaboration, feedback, and the development of habits that drive better performance every day.

The Path to Better

Success at MGC isn’t about hitting a static target, it’s about making progress each day. This value encourages us to embrace accountability, challenge ourselves, and continuously seek ways to improve. Through innovation, problem-solving, and consistent effort, we grow together, advancing both our projects and our people toward excellence.

More than a business, more than a client

We believe in building relationships that go beyond the transactional. We’re dedicated to exceeding expectations, whether through offering unwavering support to our team or going the extra mile for our clients. By prioritizing relationships and taking the initiative to do more, we create an environment where success thrives, and partnerships flourish. It’s not just about completing tasks; it’s about cultivating trust, mutual respect, and genuine care that transforms projects into lasting connections.

Building Genuine Relationships

True success comes from building trust and positive relationships, both with our clients and within our teams. We aim to engage with others on a personal level, going beyond surface interactions to foster strong bonds. Whether anticipating client needs or recognizing the achievements of our colleagues, we prioritize relationships over transactions. By demonstrating care, offering exceptional support, and consistently going the extra mile, we create a culture where collaboration and success thrive, and where every connection is valued.

Integrity is demanded. Excellence is celebrated.

At MGC, integrity is the foundation of everything we do. It’s non-negotiable, the high road being the only acceptable path. Integrity isn’t something we just talk about; it’s a way of life and either you have it, or you don’t. But while integrity is essential, excellence is equally important. We recognize that integrity alone isn’t enough, which is why we celebrate excellence in all aspects of our work. By upholding both integrity and high standards, we create a culture where purpose and performance are intertwined, driving us to consistently deliver exceptional results.

Commitment to high standards & excellence in performance

We hold ourselves accountable to the highest standards, both in ethical behavior and in the quality of our work. A strong work ethic and dedication to excellence guide every decision, from day-to-day tasks to long-term projects. Our teams are encouraged to not only meet expectations but to exceed them, demonstrating creativity and innovation that elevate our performance. Recognizing and rewarding exceptional achievements fosters a sense of purpose, while sharing success stories and best practices inspires us all to continuously improve. With integrity and excellence as our guiding principles, we consistently aim to raise the bar in everything we do.

Client Successes: Defining Moments of Excellence

There is no single project that can fully embody MGCexcellence and client amazement. Every project faces its own unique set of challenges and setbacks, which means there is no singular "MGC way" for tackling them. It’s the thousands of small things we do that truly set us apart. Still, we want to share three examples of client successstories that set the standard for excellence and illustrate what we mean by "amaze every client, every time."

We hope these examples offer you a glimpse into our culture, inspire you to serve our purpose,and help build trust within MGC.

Whose success?

You may have noticed we called our projects client success stories, not MGC success stories or project team wins. The reason for this is simple. We are not the heroes of these stories. Sure, we can (and do) recognize our teams for their successes, but; our mindset ought to be that of Sacajawea to our client’s Lewis & Clark. Our role is to guide and support our clients to the realization of their goals, no matter how difficult the journey. By keeping our focus on their needs and aligning our actions with their vision, we can deliver projects that exceed expectations. These success stories aren’t just a reflection of what we’ve done. They’re at estament to how we’ve helped our clients thrive, grow, and succeed.

St. John’s Seminary: Event& Pilgrimage Center

Tucked behind Mission Concepcion, south of downtown, stood the forgotten remnants of St. John's Seminary. Years of neglect had taken their toll; the campus sat in disrepair, fading into obscurity. But within the Archdiocese of San Antonio, a spark of hope lit a vision to bring new life and purpose to the old campus. The Archdiocese embarked on their mission of renewal, with Marksmen GC as their contractor and guide.

Amidst the decrepitude and decay, they saw potential. Graffiti marred the walls, garbage littered the grounds, and the buildings were falling apart. Unforeseen challenges threatened to derail the project at every turn.

The structural instability of the chapel's glue-laminated beams threatened the building's collapse. As the project awaited redesign, the supply chain issues from COVID continued to disrupt the schedules. But the Archdiocese saw through the decay and the setbacks, sights set on a space with beauty and purpose.

As the project progressed, the transformation was nothing short of remarkable. Graffiti-covered walls gave way to pristine finishes. Connecting the buildings, the unruly courtyard transformed into a peaceful oasis. The chapel, now a pilgrimage center, glistened with new stained glass and restored glue-laminated beams. It welcomes visitors eager to explore the rich history of World Heritage Missions. The former cafeteria, now an event space, features a masterfully crafted acoustic ceiling and floor-to-ceiling windows. The other side of the building, originally the kitchen, hosts offices for Catholic charities. The bathrooms, adorned with hand-painted tiles, separate the two sides of the building.

In the end, the Archdiocese emerged triumphant, their vision realized, their mission fulfilled. The project stands as a testament to a team that discovered clarity amidst the chaos. The completion of St. John's Seminary did more than restore a couple of old buildings. It revitalized a community, redefined a construction process, and realized a vision for the future of the San Antonio Missions.

North East ISD: MacArthur High School Performing Arts Center

In the bustling hallways of MacArthur High School, there was one notable shortcoming: a top-notch Performing Arts Center reflecting the excellence of the rest of the campus. The school longed for a space where creativity could flourish alongside academics. However, the path realizing this dream would not be easy with the many challenges, both known and unknown. It would require accuracy to navigate the maze of obstacles associated with upgrading a building in the middle of an old campus.

With seasoned staff and a capable design and construction team, North East ISD began this ambitious project. At every turn, new challenges emerged, testing their resolve. But with each dilemma, the team had the chance to use their skills and discover a winning solution. The largest hurdle was finding, recording, and relocating vast amounts of utility lines and foundation piers. Construction noise had to stay low to avoid bothering students and faculty, since the building is in the center of the campus. The final challenge was severing open the building and aligning the addition with the existing structure. Each step required the utmost accuracy from planning through construction.

The expanded curriculum was the true measure of success resulting from the completion of the Performing Arts Center. Despite the many adversities, the end result was truly extraordinary. The facility features a mural wall at the entrance, a centerpiece that reflects the spirit of the school. The renovation expanded existing programs like band and theatre, while the addition added modern orchestra and dance spaces. Students now have the resources to pursue their passions.

The project is a true case study in the power of accuracy and collaboration. The entire team demonstrated unwavering commitment to achieving North East ISD’s vision. The Performing Arts Center transformed the center of the MacArthur High School campus. But more importantly, it enriches the lives of all who pass through its doors.

NEISD MacArthur High School Performing Arts Center line drawing

Bexar County Emergency Services District 7: Fire Station 115

In northwest Bexar County, fields and farmland once stretched into the hill country. However, recent years saw an explosion of growth, transforming the area. Retail shops and neighborhoods replaced the once-abundant farms and ranches. With the area’s growth, Emergency Services District 7 faced an increasing need to build a new fire station. The district aimed to establish a fire station as both a symbol of safety for the community and a home for their firefighters.

They faced obstacles on various fronts when they decided to build Fire Station 115. The construction of the new station would occur on the property of the existing station. This meant that essential emergency services would share limited road access with the construction site. Keeping the project within budget without cutting corners introduced another layer of complexity. It required a careful balance between cost savings, quality, and operational efficiency. Their journey unfolded as a story of resourcefulness, adeptly navigating logistics and finance.

Emergency Services District 7 teamed up with their design and construction partners to address each of their issues. Together, they devised clever plans aimed at meeting the needs of both the present and the future. During construction, they implemented smart phasing strategies to keep the station operational. This ensured that lanes for the fire trucks were always open and that there was enough parking for construction and the firefighters. Enhancements to the design also provided cost savings without sacrificing quality. The district collaborated with the team to choose a new insulated CMU brick. This brick would give the station the traditional appearance of a fire station and the benefits of modern materials.

The highly visible presence of the completed fire station created an immediate impact in the community. People felt safer knowing there was a new fire station nearby. And the firefighters were happy too because they were better equipped with their new home-away-from-home. It all happened because of Emergency Services District 7’s commitment to doing things the right way. They proved that sticking to their values could bring together a top-notch team capable of making great things happen.

MGC Core Process: Blueprint for Success

At MGC, our approach to everything is driven by a straightforward yet powerful philosophy: Plan with Precision, Communicate with Clarity, Execute with Excellence. These principles aren’t just steps; they’re the foundation of how we redefine the construction experience. Every department, ever project, every time, reflects our commitment to accuracy, transparency, and unmatched craftsmanship. It is how we go about amazing every client, every time. Here’s how we put this process into action.

The Marksmen Mindset

More Than a Process: This isn’t just a set of steps, it’s a mindset that shapes every decision, every interaction, and every project. From concept to completion, it’s how we ensure excellence.
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Always Improving: After every project, we ought to be asking: How can we refine the way we plan, communicate, and execute? Continuous improvement isn’t an option; it’s a priority, and a core value.

Our Commitment: At MGC, shortcuts don’t exist. Every detail is a reflection of our values, and every project is an opportunity to build something remarkable.