Matthew Childress, Wisconsin market president, Gorman & Company
What are the most challenging and rewarding aspects of your job?
The most challenging portions of my job are the current macroeconomic conditions. Interest rates, construction costs and inflation are making it very challenging to finance important affordable housing projects in communities. The most rewarding portions are the permanence of the work. I can have an idea, and a few years later, people are living in a community that makes their lives better.
Who do you look up to or admire in business and why?
What I admire is the affordable housing development community. It is an incredibly resilient and practical group. It is truly remarkable how much other developers are willing to help each other out. If you don’t know the answer to something, there are typically a few people ready to help you figure out the problem.
What has been the high point of your career so far?
Reaching a point where I am comfortable with who I am and confident that the approach I am taking is the right path. Leadership takes courage, and when you have the “aha” moment that it is OK to disrupt things, life can be incredibly fulfilling.
Thinking back on your career, what advice would you give your 21-year-old self?
Every choice you make is the right choice. Don’t second-guess moments that feel like setbacks. All of the experiences that are coming will give you the strength and conviction to make an impact on people’s lives.
What would you say are the best things about living and working in Dane County?
As a lifelong Wisconsinite, I love the seasons. Dane County is a wonderful place to raise a family. My family really enjoys attending things like the farmers’ market or watching soccer games at Breese Stevens Field. Dane County is a great place to work in affordable housing. The local community is very collaborative and buys into the importance of everyone deserving a place to call home.
Do you have any secret talents or abilities that people would be surprised to discover?
I have an amazing memory, but I am terrible with names. It doesn’t make any sense.
