Doug Ellsworth

Doug Ellsworth began his construction career in 1974, as a Business Agent for the Tampa Carpenter’s Local Union #696. Shortly thereafter, his entrepreneurial spirit inspired him to co-found American Drywall; the firm’s market focus comprised retail and mall tenant fit-out, had a statewide reach, but quickly expanded to include all phases of interior construction, primarily in the Tampa Bay Area.

In 1982, he became the General Superintendent on the 40 story, Tampa City Center; overseeing the completion of both the building and tenant build-out, and move in of GTE (occupying 50% of the building). Doug co-founded South-Co, working closely with GTE Realty and Cushman Wakefield to budget and build-out the remaining 50% of the City Center.

As a firm, South-Co offered a complete portfolio of General Contracting and pre-constructions services, partnering with developers and individual owners. In 1986, South-Co began a 32-year relationship with Tampa Electric Company, serving TECO’s General Contracting needs at power stations, operation centers, data & security centers, recently at the Manatee Viewing Center, as well as office spaces.

For projects, Doug assumes the role of Project Manager, offering experiential oversight, accountability, and leadership. His work in commercial construction ideally suits him for this role. During his three decades as a collaborative partner to TECO, and many other clients, he is capable of not only meeting required project objectives, but ensures the pillars of safety, quality, and compressed schedules are met.