George Garcia

Founder, GC Garcia, Inc.

“Love what you do and do what you love.”

Type of Business: Planning & Development Services
Based: Henderson, NV
Hails from: Chicago, IL

Years Co. has been in Nevada: 25
Years with Company in Nevada: 25
Employees with Company: 7

What was your first job?

Washing dishes in an all-you-can-eat restaurant.

What career advice would you give to your teenage self?

Find what matters most, not just money, and pursue it passionately and relentlessly.

What is an issue currently facing your industry an outside observer might not be aware of?

The diminishing supply of developable land coupled with the increased regulatory requirements that push land prices and development higher. This is driving an evolution to a more urban environment. What an incredible vibrant place southern Nevada is to be doing business globally and locally.

What is the best moment of your career?

Creating the firm GC Garcia, Inc. I describe it like the movie scene in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade. In order to find the Grail, he has to cross a huge deep chasm across an invisible bridge. It takes an enormous belief to take the first step to achieve your goal and when your foot lands on the invisible bridge, it’s a truly amazing, once-in-a-lifetime experience.

What would be the title of your autobiography?

Adversity, Change and Success.

Who in your life has been instrumental to your success?

My parents, especially my mother! They made education and college essential and instilled critical values, like the importance of family, and work ethic that stay with you forever. It was my first boss who helped me realize the value I would bring and pushed me along to a new plateau in my career.

If you had to live in another country for a year, which would you choose and why?

Sweden. As part of my family roots, history comes from there and its reputed quality of life, happiness, and business approach would be fascinating to experience and contrast to what we do and enjoy here.