Christian Searles never imagined a career in construction. “My dad has had me on construction sites since I could walk, so I was always around it,” said Christian. “But construction wasn’t something I originally considered as a career.”
Growing up in the South suburbs of Chicago, Christian spent summers working with his dad on demolition and house flipping projects, but after playing football at the University of Dayton, Christian had other dreams.
In 2018, Christian signed as an undrafted free agent with the Washington Commanders but suffered an injury during the team’s rookie minicamp. Christian hoped to recover and continue his NFL career, but life had other plans. “I got an opportunity to build my first house,” said Christian. “And from there, I never looked back.”
In 2020, Christian moved back to Chicago. In July of 2023, Christian took over as President of Francis Construction Group, a construction business that started in 2019. As President, Christian has managed several high-profile projects, including last year’s demolition in Arlington Heights with Alpine for the Chicago Bears and the current general contracting work for the National A. Philip Randolph Pullman Porter Museum.
In 2023, Christian received a $25,000 small business loan from Allies for Community Business. “Having a community lender willing to extend loans or lines of credit to a small up-and-coming business that needs it to grow has been a godsend,” said Christian.
After Christian received his loan, A4CB connected him to HIRE360, an organization that provides intensive wraparound services to support successful diverse contractors grow their businesses. With HIRE360’s support, Christian increased his A4CB loan size from $25,000 to $100,000. HIRE360 has also helped introduce Francis Construction Group to local workforce that they have been able to employ.
Christian employs a team of ten in the office and between 20 and 50 on-site. Francis Construction Group also trains and sponsors individuals into the carpenters, laborers, and operating engineers unions. “Employing people of color and people who may not get those same opportunities is important for us,” said Christian.
As Francis Construction Group grows, Christian hopes to continue making an impact through employment opportunities. “We strive to bring people up on this ride with us and give them options in their growth,” said Christian.
