Today we’d like to introduce you to April Smalls.
Hi April, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My story is one of transition driven by ambition and discipline, starting with six and a half years in the United States Army, culminating in achieving the rank of Staff Sergeant (E-6). Reaching that peak was my proudest moment, but it also became the catalyst for realizing my potential outside the military; I recognized the leadership and project management skills I possessed and decided to apply them to build something for my own community. Following my separation, I intentionally gained experience in commercial real estate and government work, before making a bold move with my wife to Houston to pursue my true passion. To master the residential market, I spent a year working for a major home builder, gaining invaluable, hands-on knowledge of the construction pipeline. This learning served as the immediate launchpad for founding Highmark Builders, my residential construction management company. Today, we stand apart by making meticulous project management and communication skills honed by my military experience the core of every project. I am here in Houston, focused on building community, becoming a trusted resource, and providing clients with an unparalleled service that guarantees comfort, assurance, and high-level professionalism from start to finish.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It has certainly not been a smooth road, and one of my most significant challenges upon leaving the military was adjusting to civilian life. The constant high-alert state the need to always be moving or doing something had become my normal. Post-service, I recognized that I was often too uptight and overly stressed, and I began identifying the behavioral impacts of that demanding environment, from a guarded nature to challenges with personal space. My journey since then has been about learning to relax, practicing self-grace, and intentionally slowing down. On a personal level, this process has allowed me to embrace my authentic self; I’ve had the space to lean into my more feminine side, to simply ‘be a woman’ who is building her life and career while allowing herself to enjoy the journey.
Professionally, I have consistently chosen to enter and lead in male-dominated industries, and that presents its own set of hurdles. While I haven’t faced anything truly extreme, I often encounter the subtle challenge of authority: when discussing a project, clients are frequently more inclined to address my male partners or colleagues first. Unlike the military, where rank asserted my position instantly, here I must repetitively and clearly assert my expertise and authority. This requires constant vigilance and confidence. Finally, like any entrepreneur, I face the ongoing challenge of building community and consistently acquiring new clientele—a demanding but welcome part of growing Highmark Builders.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Highmark Builders?
Highmark Builders is known for bringing structure and strong project management to residential remodeling. My company stays busy because clients trust the way I run projects. I handle scheduling, communication, trade coordination, and quality control with a level of organization that makes the entire process easier for homeowners, realtors, and investors.
I specialize in kitchens, bathrooms, flooring, home upgrades, and listing-ready improvements. What separates my brand is the way the work is managed from start to finish. Every client receives clear expectations, daily updates, and a single point of contact they can rely on. Realtors appreciate how quickly I can prepare a home for the market. Homeowners feel supported, and investors value the accuracy and accountability built into every project.
I want readers to know that Highmark Builders stands for reliability, structure, and communication. Beautiful renovations matter, but the way a project is managed determines the experience. That’s the part I take the most pride in.
Where do you see things going in the next 5-10 years?
Over the next five to ten years, I see the remodeling industry staying strong. More homeowners are choosing new construction homes with the most basic finishes, then bringing in contractors like us to customize and upgrade those spaces. At the same time, there’s a growing group of buyers who prefer older homes and fixer-uppers because they want character and see the value in transforming a property. Both paths lead back to remodeling. No matter the market conditions, people will always want to personalize their homes, fix what isn’t working, and create spaces that fit their lifestyle. Our industry isn’t going anywhere, and companies with solid project management will stay in demand as homeowners continue to look for structure, clarity, and reliable guidance throughout the renovation process.
Pricing:
- Affordable Interior Painting Package
- Kitchen remodels usually start around ten to fifteen thousand for basic upgrades and increase with custom cabinetry, countertops, and layout changes.
- Cosmetic upgrades such as lighting, plumbing fixtures, painting, or small repairs vary widely and are usually quoted after a consultation.
- Kitchen remodels usually start around ten to fifteen thousand for basic upgrades and increase with custom cabinetry, countertops, and layout changes.
- Flooring installation for materials like LVP or tile is typically priced per square foot and often ranges from three to eight dollars for labor depending on the material.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://highmarkbuilder.site/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/highmark.builders.houston
Image Credits
N/A company took pictures
