Boo Nickle – Edgewood Management

Boo Nickle, the vice president of construction at Pratum Companies, formerly Edgewood Management, has been a cornerstone of the organization for over 50 years. Pratum Companies has long been recognized as a leader in affordable and mixed-income housing management, currently serving seven states and the District of Columbia. The company specializes in affordable housing and is known for creating vibrant, inclusive, and economically accessible communities. As a third-party manager, Pratum provides property management and advisory services while maintaining strong relationships with residents and property owners.

In his role, Nickle is responsible for managing day-to-day maintenance operations, overseeing a skilled team to ensure that all properties are well-maintained and operational. He troubleshoots issues as they arise, providing immediate solutions to keep everything running smoothly. Nickle recommends equipment, procedures and vendors to property owners and managers, leveraging his extensive industry knowledge to enhance operational efficiency and reduce costs. He also ensures that construction work is completed on time and within budget, coordinating closely with contractors and monitoring project timelines and expenditures.

Driving success in new communities

One of Nickle’s key ongoing projects is developing and leasing three new residential communities in North Carolina. Strategically located in desirable areas, these communities aim to provide exceptional value for residents and property owners. Each development features thoughtfully designed common areas and modern amenities, fostering solid and inclusive neighborhoods. Leveraging his decades of experience, Nickle has been involved with these projects at various stages, from initial design recommendations to budget management. His comprehensive role includes regular site visits where he works directly with contractors, conducts punch inspections, and ensures compliance with regulatory requirements set by HUD, ADA, and UFAS.

Nickle’s hands-on approach is crucial in keeping projects on track and within budget. By being on-site regularly, he can quickly address any issues, whether it’s resolving construction delays or ensuring the design aligns with the vision for providing quality living in residential communities. His attention to detail guarantees that nothing is overlooked, resulting in well-functioning communities that residents can proudly call home.

In addition to construction oversight, Nickle is committed to preparing his team for long-term success. With evolving HVAC refrigerant guidelines, he spearheads a training initiative for the company’s maintenance staff. New, highly flammable refrigerants require specialized handling and the latest equipment. To address this, Nickle has partnered with a local HVAC supplier for targeted training, ensuring his team is prepared for these safety requirements.

“This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance the skills of Pratum’s on-site staff. I am actively involved in the training process, including mentoring my son Robbie, who has been with the company for 17 years,” Nickle explains.

Prioritizing recruitment and retention

Nickle’s top priorities are recruiting and retention as he supports, mentors and works closely with a team of about 150 maintenance workers spread across numerous properties. Like many companies in the industry, Pratum needs help finding skilled tradesmen, particularly in regions where maintenance roles offer lower wages. These areas often need help attracting certified professionals in crucial fields like HVAC, electrical, and carpentry, making filling open positions with qualified workers harder. To combat this, Nickle takes a structured and rigorous approach to identifying qualified candidates for maintenance positions, focusing on applicants with strong technical skills and a demonstrated ability to handle the role’s demands.

“Even with the right hires, retention remains a persistent issue, largely due to the limited career advancement opportunities in the maintenance field,” Nickle notes. “I understand that without pathways for growth, employees can become disengaged or look elsewhere for opportunities.”

To address this, Nickle is committed to providing ongoing training and development programs for his team. These initiatives enhance the staff’s technical skills and foster a sense of professional progression, helping to reduce turnover and keep the team motivated.

Nickle acknowledges that problem-solving is one of the most challenging parts of his job. Many buildings he works with are 50 to 60 years old, requiring innovative, cost-effective solutions to maintain and improve them. Balancing the need for creative fixes while staying within budget is often challenging. Despite these difficulties, Nickle is motivated by the strong relationships he has built over the years with his colleagues and property owners. The camaraderie and shared goals within his Pratum team make the challenges worthwhile. For Nickle, the satisfaction of knowing he’s improving residents’ lives and supporting his team’s success drives him to continue preparing Pratum for future growth.

Over 50 years of dedication

Nickle’s five-decade career is a story of hard work and steady progression. Joining the company in 1974, Nickle started by mopping floors and performing various tasks such as cutting grass and building maintenance. His dedication and work ethic soon saw him take on more complex responsibilities, including auditing and community management. In 1995, after two decades of service, Nickle stepped into his current role as vice president of construction.

Nickle’s career growth parallels the growth of Edgewood Management. Starting as a small mom-and-pop company, Edgewood expanded over the years, especially within the affordable housing sector, a field Nickle recognized as stable early on. His father, a brick mason, influenced his path, instilling in him the understanding that housing would always be in demand. This insight guided Nickle’s steady rise within the company.

Beyond his professional success, Nickle enjoys spending time with his family, especially camping with his children and six grandchildren. He’s also passionate about classic cars and motorcycles, which provide a perfect outlet for his hands-on approach to life.

“Success is built on hard work and a willingness to grow. Whether mopping floors or managing projects, I’ve always believed that dedication and a strong work ethic opens doors. The journey is just as important as the destination, and the relationships we build along the way make it worthwhile,” Nickle says.