Longtime Friends Build Successful Construction Firm in Flower Mound

FM Constructors' co-owners Claudio Forest and Don McDaniel credit their enduring friendship as the key to their company's growth.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 6:51pm

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A high-end, photorealistic studio still life featuring a selection of construction materials and tools, including a tape measure, safety goggles, and a hardhat, arranged elegantly on a clean, monochromatic background to symbolize the craftsmanship and attention to detail that define FM Constructors' approach to their work.Premium construction materials and tools arranged in a polished, conceptual still life, representing the quality and expertise that have fueled FM Constructors' growth.Flower Mound Today

Claudio Forest and Don McDaniel, longtime friends through the Summit Club of Flower Mound, decided to take a chance and start their own construction company, FM Constructors, seven years ago. Despite initial struggles, the partnership has thrived, with the company completing high-profile projects across North Texas and the country. The co-owners say their commitment to their local community, smart management, and most importantly, their strong friendship, have been the foundation for FM Constructors' success.

Why it matters

In an industry dominated by general contractors, FM Constructors has set itself apart by offering a full range of construction services while maintaining a focus on cost-effectiveness, experience, and community ties. The story of how two longtime friends built a successful business from the ground up provides an inspiring example of entrepreneurship and the power of trusting partnerships.

The details

After years of working in the restaurant and hotel industry, Don McDaniel decided to start his own business when he struggled to re-enter the workforce after being a stay-at-home parent. His friend Claudio Forest, who was the Vice President of Construction at RenCon Services, helped Don get a job there to learn the construction business. A year later, the two decided to take the leap and start FM Constructors together. While the first year was a struggle, the company has since stayed busy, completing projects ranging from residential remodels to large-scale commercial construction. The co-owners credit their smart management, commitment to their local community in Flower Mound, and most importantly, their enduring friendship, as the keys to FM Constructors' success.

  • Eighteen years ago, Don McDaniel put his career on hold to be a stay-at-home parent.
  • In 2002, when their son was old enough to drive, Don decided to re-enter the workforce.
  • Claudio Forest helped Don get a job at RenCon Services in 2018 to learn the construction business.
  • Claudio and Don started FM Constructors together in 2019.

The players

Claudio Forest

The co-owner of FM Constructors and the former Vice President of Construction at RenCon Services.

Don McDaniel

The co-owner of FM Constructors, who previously worked in the restaurant and hotel industry before becoming a stay-at-home parent for 18 years.

FM Constructors

A full-service construction company based in Flower Mound, Texas, that specializes in residential, commercial, and design-build projects.

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What they’re saying

“It was just one of those things where we took a chance, and it worked from the start.”

— Claudio Forest, Co-owner, FM Constructors

“Working together as well as we have has allowed us to stay in business and do the things we really want to do. You don't want to get stuck trying to fix what's not broken, but we're also constantly looking for ways to grow.”

— Don McDaniel, Co-owner, FM Constructors

What’s next

FM Constructors plans to continue expanding its portfolio of high-profile construction projects in the North Texas region and beyond, while maintaining its focus on community involvement and providing a high level of service to its clients.

The takeaway

The story of FM Constructors demonstrates how a strong personal friendship and shared vision can be the foundation for a successful small business, even in a competitive industry like construction. The company's commitment to its local community and willingness to adapt and grow have been key factors in its continued growth and success.