At CTI Environmental, Inc., being a subcontractor to Cordoba Corporation on the Long Beach City College (LBCC) deferred maintenance projects shows how using what you have—strong relationships, local presence, and readiness—creates opportunity. While Cordoba is the Program Manager for the Bond Program, CTIs team supported the Facilities Department by providing CM services for deferred maintenance projects.
Building trusted connections with both the agency and the prime contractor takes time, effort, and consistency. As a local small business, CTI has leaned into those relationships, supported by LBCC’s leadership and Board of Directors who see the real value in investing locally.
Cordoba’s CEO, George Cordoba, models the power of mentorship and partnership, proving that growth comes when we all work together.
Most importantly, this project embodies a key lesson: use what you have now to stay ready, so you don’t have to get ready later. When the opportunity arose, CTI was perfectly positioned to deliver—because we had built a foundation of trust, preparation, and commitment.
Using what you have means showing up fully—relationships, skills, knowledge, and local roots—all aligned and ready when opportunity calls.
More Blogs From Robin Thorne
Use What You Have: Stay Ready So You Don’t Have to Get Ready
At CTI Environmental, Inc., being a subcontractor to Cordoba Corporation on the Long Beach City College (LBCC) deferred maintenance projects shows how using what you
Use What You Have to Build What You Need
Some of the most resourceful people I know didn’t start with much—just a strong work ethic, creative thinking, and the will to figure it out.
International Women in Engineering Day
Imagine this: You’re driving home on a cold rainy day and every few miles, you have to get out to clean off your windshields. Once