At Tenhulzen, continuous improvement is at the core of our philosophy. Our founder, Scott Tenhulzen, has played a pivotal role in leveraging industry resources to elevate our operations, team, and company culture. A significant part of this journey has been through embracing growth through Remodelers Advantage, a premier organization dedicated to fostering growth and excellence among remodeling professionals nationwide.
Our Journey with Remodelers Advantage
We initially got involved with Remodelers Advantage through engagement with one of their dedicated coaches. Over our 25 years in business, we’ve brought in coaches at different growth stages—each providing invaluable insights into company structure, staffing, processes, systems, and measurable KPIs for individuals. These coaching relationships have expanded our perspectives and helped us navigate the complexities of scaling our operations.
When we reached a point where we agreed that it was time for a new challenge, we embraced the opportunity with guidance from our business coach to join Remodelers Advantage’s Roundtables. This exclusive community unites hundreds of remodeling firms across the country—creating a collaborative environment where open sharing and mutual accountability thrive. It’s a platform where industry peers set goals, share strategies, and hold each other accountable, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
Moreover, the Roundtables offer access to proven systems covering HR, production efficiency, real-time data management, and more. While initially intimidating, these systems quickly prove their worth in driving operational excellence, creating the best team and client experience possible, which is part of our mission
A Deep Dive in Philadelphia: Learning from Buckminster Green
Recently, Scott had the privilege of participating in a case study review in Philadelphia, focusing on Buckminster Green—a well-respected local remodeling firm known for their expertise in whole-house renovations for row houses. Our group, comprising 14 contractors from across the country, visited Buckminster Green’s offices, interviewed staff members in small groups, toured a jobsite, and enjoyed an evening of camaraderie over dinner and drinks.
This immersive experience provided actionable insights that reports and virtual meetings simply can’t deliver. A key takeaway was the importance of explicitly defining what success looks like for the team. While their company culture is strong, the firm recognized gaps in certain areas with accountability and communication—and they are actively making changes to address these areas now that they’ve identified them.
What is wonderful about identifying areas of opportunity for others is that you can usually relate this easily to your own business. Providing feedback for Buckminster mirrors feedback for our own company and we then get to partner together and hold each other accountable for overcoming the challenge and then moving on to the next one.
Key Takeaways for Enhancing Accountability
A core takeaway was the need to implement measurable goals at the team level—so every member knows whether they are winning or losing at any point in a project. For us at Tenhulzen, this aligns closely with our ongoing efforts to instill discipline around tracking hours, setting expectations, and planning workflows more intentionally. We believe that developing these habits leads to better project outcomes, improved client experiences, and more fulfilled teams.
Reflections on Leadership and Humility
Beyond the technical and operational insights, the experience reinforced the value of humility and openness among industry peers. Sharing both successes and struggles—whether dealing with staffing challenges, organizational structures, or personal growth—is what builds genuine camaraderie. The high-performing yet humble nature of these contractors serves as an inspiration and reminds us that leadership is an ongoing journey of learning.
Celebrating Craftsmanship and Personal Growth
Finally, seeing the outstanding work being produced by another remodeling firm was truly inspiring. It reminded Scott—and us all—of the importance of taking time for reflection and self-appreciation amidst relentless pursuit of improvement. Taking the time to reflect on growth over the 25-years of home projects in King and Snohomish Counties, enriches our own sense of purpose.
Looking forward, Scott and the team are excited about deepening relationships within the Remodelers Advantage community. Our next meetings are scheduled for the fall in Arizona and a spring case study in Oregon, promising new insights and friendships in the pursuit of excellence.
