FORE construction inc

We pride ourselves in our experience and knowledge of the construction industry, enabling us to work with our clients from the inception of their project, through the design stages, to completion and occupancy. We can assemble a complete qualified team of design and engineering professionals or can bring together the proper subcontractors to design-build any project. We let the client’s needs and budget direct us down the proper path of success. We work with our clients offering value engineering and pricing options, creating a proverbial shopping list of items. This enables our clients to get the most they possibly can at the most efficient price. Whether we need to assemble the complete team, work with the client directly, or with their team, we have what is required to complete any project we tackle. 

Who We Are

Incorporated in 2009, however, we have an abundance of knowledge and experience in the industry. FORE is a cohesive team that had previously worked for a local GC for many years. Fore's president assisted in the building of the former operation in early 1983 and helped build it from a two person company to one that employed over 135 people with an annual volume of approximately $43 million. He worked with each and every member now at FORE for many years, which helped in forming the current FORE team. FORE specializes in interior construction but has the knowledge and experience to perform many other services such as ground up construction. Over the many years in the industry our team has worked with companies such as Dell from their inception through their extremely fast growth years. We’ve worked on Congress Avenue, built medical facilities, large industrial manufacturing facilities and have even performed a good deal of work at ERCOT. So while we may be a fairly new GC we believe our background and experience would hold up against others.

Our Founders

R. Steve Franklin, President/Project Manager

Steve was born and raised in Houston, Texas where he met his wife, Debbie, of 34 years.

The early stages of Steve's career began at 16 where he worked as a residential painter's helper. He grew knowledgeable in all facets of the residential industry, and from there he continued to pursue his passion to advance in construction. In 1980, Steve and his wife relocated to Austin, Texas. Steve began his career in the commercial construction industry, working as an electrician. In 1983, he co-founded a local commercial general contracting firm which grew into one of the largest tenant finish contractors in the central Texas area.

Over the years, Steve has worked with Dell, Inc., formally PC Limited, as an estimator, project manager, and superintendent. He also worked with Trammell Crow, in the early 80's when they were largest developer in town. As Austin grew, and Trammell Crow spawned other companies, Steve followed, maintaining long-term relationships. He has been closely involved in the growth and prosperity of his "home", witnessing Austin turn into a thriving metropolitan area.

As President, Steve will oversee all facets of Fore and he will also serve as Lead Project Manager.

Mark Laurence, Senior Estimator/Principal

Mark currently lives in Taylor with his wife, Kathleen, and five young children, where he was born and raised.  Mark attended the University of Texas at Austin and received his degree in Bachelor of Science and Architectural Studies.

As Fore's Estimator, Mark is extremely knowledgeable and seasoned in preparing cost estimates for all types of building construction, both new and renovation, for over 10 years.  He is responsible for the development of project budgets during the preliminary design phase in pre-construction consultation with the owner/client and the architect through the final pricing stage.  Mark determines budget and cost control techniques and provides cost evaluation throughout design development to final bid documents.  Mark tailors his procedure for the highest level of communication between our clients and the project personnel on all matters of scheduling, purchasing and cost control.  He reviews cost reporting procedures and data with the project staff, the owner and the architect to determine adherence to the project budget.

Leslie Schwertner, Controller/Principal

Leslie relocated from Mesquite, Texas to pursue a career in Austin.  She now resides in Taylor with her husband, Cody, and their two daughters.  At the age of 19, she began her career in the construction industry as a receptionist and quickly worked her way through the ranks due to her strong desire for success.  She continued her advancement with a General Contractor in the Austin area for over six years. 

As Fore's Office Manager, she will stay close to all projects from start to finish, including proposals, contracts, subcontracts, purchase orders, permitting, job set up, submittals, certain accounting functions and follows them through the close out phase.  Leslie also oversees the maintenance of spreadsheets, logs, quarterly reports, pre-bid proposals and the day to day functions of the company.  Leslie also assists with insurance issues, PR packages, website, and other various tasks that promote Fore to clients and vendors in the industry.  Leslie oversees the maintenance of OSHA 300 safety logs, safety meetings, injuries, and safety plans.  Overall Leslie’s position requires knowledge in all aspects within the company to better serve each department.