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A Heart for the Lord, Dance and Electrical Technology

Yolanda Mitchell is president of FYM Logic, Inc. Mitchell describes FYM Logic as “a Premier electrical contracting firm central New York” involved in all areas of electrical contracting. “As an emerging firm in Central New York we participate in all facets of electrical contracting performing in the residential, commercial and light industrial markets our offerings include: light and outlet installation, ups installation, low voltage control work, motor control, sound, security, lighting, etc. we’re on the verge on taking on this market.”

Started in 1993 and approaching their 17th year, Mitchell describes her life as a small business owner as a grassroots business. “Things are going to be difficult. When many [electrical contractors] have 20, 30, or 40 years in the business, people ask, ‘why should we use you?'” Her experience in the electrical contracting business and tenacity have helped her overcome that obstacle.

Mitchell became serious as she describes some of the hurdles small contracting businesses has to surmount. “Usually it takes a decade and a half before they can become bondable. We plan to obtain that within 24 months. It’s huge to say the least. Within the next 5 to 10 years, I see FYM Logic as a million dollar company.” She’s positive about the new Surety Bond Access program. “It targets a small business like myself. Most of us have this roadblock called bonding. In order to be bonded you have to have a certain amount in assets. They’re looking for a company with a certain amount in assets and profitability.” She participated in the (DASNY) Dormitory Authority State New York conference, where the new Surety Bond Access bonding program was introduced. DASNY has partnered with bankers and surety companies to provide a program that works specifically on providing bonding assistance using past and current work experience with DASNY as proof that the project will be completed as promised.

She politely waves her hand in a fleeting hand gesture when asked about the City of Syracuse’s M/WBE program. “So far we’ve gotten zilch through that program and that’s because we haven’t been bonded. Most of their projects require bonding. Unfortunately, we’ve not been able to participate much in that program.”

Not one to dwell on negative thoughts, she immediately offered praise for Syracuse University and their push to include minority and women owned businesses in their projects. “Syracuse University has been magnificent too. Nancy Cantor instituted an initiative about 3 years ago their own compliance program, the city and state have their own compliance program. The former Lyman Hall JP Morgan renovated the building in order to house their facility Syracuse University made a point to make sure minority and women contractors were involved.”

With all of the construction projects on campus, Mitchell makes a point to emphasize smaller minority businesses don’t have things in place like bonding which hinders business development. She continues, “I’d like to thank Syracuse University for this initiative that reached out. After working on an initial project, it became easier to get the next job. We worked on a lighting renovation project in the Marshall Square Mall. After that, we were able to go out and market ourselves as a commercial company because we did perform work on this commercial facility. Syracuse University gave us a big break.” Syracuse University gave her company the work to make it possible to for her business to gain credibility as a commercial business.

FYM Logic, Inc. is not just a company that is satisfied being a subcontractor to satisfy a goal. “Why should I have to settle for the 5 and 10 percent?” She foresees a time when FYM Logic, inc. is bidding as a prime contractor on major projects. “The participation programs have been good so I’m not knocking it. In the end I want you to use my services because our work is stellar. I have a staff which includes a couple of master licenses. Never allow anybody to put you in a box. Know who you are and what your passions are, and you’ll be a success. Don’t get caught up in ‘this is where the money is.’ You’re bound to fail. Find out what you’re passionate about. Always think outside the box and always keep your vision high.”

Yolanda is married to Floyd Mitchell and they have 4 children: Jayanti Mitchell 16, Jamaris Mitchell 13, Jayden 10, and Jared Mitchell 8. “I’m very blessed to have these kids. They’re in honors classes at school.” Mitchell, a former teenage professional dancer, has passed this passion on to her two girls. “They got it from me,” she grins.

On top of being a wife and mother, Mitchell is completing her electrical engineering degree at Syracuse University. She’s also active at Abundant Life Church as a dance leader, where she’s been able to combine her passions. “I’m compassionate about the Lord, Dance and Electrical technology, my walk with the Lord gives me balance. Always remember nothing is impossible.”

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