About GCC

Leadership Behind the Craft

GCC_Ting_jobsite_no_sticker
“There has to be a better way.”
The question that led to GCC

Meet Ting — Ting Chen, Founder

Ting’s journey into construction began in 2012 after earning her master’s degree from the University of Washington. With a background in architecture, she quickly traded the drafting table for muddy boots, realizing that she had to know how a home is put together in the field first.

In the Field

Starting with a small housing developer and later managing multiple homes at MN Custom Homes, Ting gained hands-on experience across every stage of construction—from purchasing and subcontractor coordination to solving complex jobsite challenges. Working from the perspectives of builders, developers, and owners gave her a unique understanding of how decisions impact cost, schedule, quality, and the homeowner’s experience.

Shaped by Mentors

Throughout her career, Ting was fortunate to learn from mentors who shaped her approach to construction. Owen Roberts taught her the discipline and attention to detail behind exceptional homes, while Richard Heidi taught her the importance of communication and protecting the client’s vision.

Standing 5’2”, Ting is often one of the smallest people on the jobsite—but she can also be one of the loudest. Construction taught her that leadership isn’t measured by size or title. It is earned through preparation, problem-solving, and the ability to bring people together toward a common goal.

Why GCC Exists

That realization led to the founding of GCC—a company dedicated to improving how custom homes are planned, coordinated, and delivered. Ting believes the future of custom home building isn’t about building bigger homes—it’s about building smarter, making better decisions, and creating a better experience for everyone involved.

What Sets GCC Apart

1

Decision Quality

We help you make better decisions before they become expensive mistakes.

2

Pre‑Construction Intelligence

We align design, budget, consultants, and constructability before construction begins.

3

Technology‑Enabled Process

We use AI and structured workflows to improve coordination, transparency, and project visibility.

4

Continuity of Leadership

The same trusted lead and team from feasibility through warranty—minimizing handoffs and preserving context.

5

Owner Advocacy

Every recommendation starts with one question: “What’s best for the homeowner?”

Endorsements

“I have known Ting for many years and have had the opportunity to watch her grow from Project Manager to Project Executive, and ultimately to entrepreneur and custom home builder.
 
Throughout that time, I have been consistently impressed by her ability to lead complex building projects with clear vision, disciplined cost control, attention to detail, and strong leadership. She understands how to balance the many competing demands of a project while maintaining accountability to the homeowner, design team, and construction team. That combination of experience, judgment, and execution is not easy to find.
 
Ting has the experience, character, and dedication I would look for in a custom home builder and that I believe homeowners should expect when entrusting someone with a project of this significance. Although I have not personally hired her to build a home for me, I know the market and the options available.  If I were building another home, I would, without hesitation or reservation, pursue Ting as my preferred custom builder and, subject to her availability, select her to build for me.”
 

— DAN IVANOFF, FOUNDER, SCHNITZER WEST ENTITIES

“I first met Ting when she was working as a development consultant for a neighbor to a subdividable view property above Lake Sammamish. It became clear nearly immediately that not only was she providing competent representation for her client, but she really had great knowledge of both the land development and high-end residential construction processes.

Since that time, I have had the pleasure of working with her on a Lake Washington waterfront home restoration prior to selling the property for a mutual client. She brought the project to completion on time and on budget, and the property successfully sold in a reasonable amount of time for a much better price than it would have without the restoration.

Ting separates herself from most of the industry with her attention to detail, her focus, and the depth of her knowledge and experience. I have every confidence in recommending her to clients, friends and associates.

After 43+ years in the real estate business dealing with dozens of contractors, I do not recommend someone without having complete confidence in them. I highly recommend Ting."

— BRYAN LOVELESS, LUXURY ADVISOR, WiINDERMERE REAL ESTATE NORTHEAST INC.

“I gave Ting some of our highest-profile homes to manage from demolition to completion for a simple reason: I trusted her judgment, and she knew how to build. I believe she has the experience, judgment, ambition, and character to successfully lead custom home projects of her own. I’m happy to recommend her and wish her continued success with GCC Custom Homes.”

— JOE NAESETH, CO-FOUNDER | MN CUSTOM HOMES now AZORI