Co-Founder of Wharton-Smith
George Smith is a Co-Founder of Wharton-Smith Construction Group. He has more than 55 years of experience in the construction industry. His substantial operations background ranges from surveying, highway, and water to general building construction. His passion for finance, estimating, and operations have assured in-depth knowledge of all functions throughout the organization. George retired as President and CEO of Wharton-Smith in April 2005 but is still active as Chairman Emeritus.
Alongside Bill Wharton, George founded Wharton-Smith, Inc. in 1984. He led the company’s growth from a first-year volume of $1 million to an annual volume of more than $400 million. Before founding Wharton-Smith, George worked at Bay-Con Corporation, Inc., where he was hired as a Project Manager in 1969 and was promoted to Vice President, General Manager, and Chief Operating Officer of Bay-Con General, Inc.
In addition, George has personally received the following awards: The Joseph A. Oritt Service Award, presented by the Central Florida Zoological Park; “Distinguished Alumnus” award, presented by Ohio State University’s College of Engineering and Knowlton School of Architecture; and a Lifetime Achievement Award, presented by the Seminole County Regional Chamber of Commerce.
George enjoys spending time with his two children and six grandchildren outside of work. He resides in Longwood with his wife Gretchen.
