ISLANDIA — When the recession impacted many industries, particularly construction, one Long Island builder devised a strategy for his company not only to survive the economic downturn, but to continue to grow as well. In September of 2008, principal of Stalco Kevin Harney guaranteed to his 30 employees that they would not lose their jobs. Harney said he would pay for their benefits and only asked in return that they work harder. Harney also made some additional changes, which included the completion of projects ahead of schedule, timely billing, increased productivity and a boost in marketing.

Stalco was able to grow Harney said by reaching out to other markets in the private sector and by branching out into the city.