Founder, Girard Realty and Co-founder, Girard Homes and WG 3D Home Design
Owning one business before the age of 30 is impressive. But owning three is rare achievement few can claim — yet that’s precisely what Zachary Girard has accomplished. In fact, he founded Girard Homes a decade ago and the company has received eighteen local awards for outstanding and innovative home design. You might say that Zachary is reaching for the stars.
He credits a lot of people for getting him where he is today, including his husband, Nathan, his parents and brother, and of course, his Girard Homes team. But it was his mother who set him on this path.
“When my mom was graduating college in Florida, she started a homebuilding company with my grandfather so that she was able to grow into a very successful company,” Zachary says. “I followed in her footsteps by starting my own homebuilding company while I was in college.”
While most college students are clinging to that last shred of freedom before graduating and entering the real world, this guy was getting a company up and running. And he’s a consummate professional about it.
“Zach’s commitment to his clients is truly unparalleled,” says Pattie Faber, mortgage loan officer with US Bank. “He consistently goes above and beyond to ensure that every homeowner has the best possible building experience. His attention to detail, responsiveness, and willingness to listen to his clients’ needs sets him apart from others in the industry. Zach understands that building a home is a significant investment, both financially and emotionally, and he takes great care in guiding his clients through the process with utmost professionalism and care.”
Zachary also danced with the stars. He was second runner-up at last year’s Dancing with Missouri Stars. He spent hours practicing and more hours raising money for Columbia’s Mareck Center for Dance. He continues to fundraise for the nonprofit and Nathan has joined its board of directors.
Zachary’s achievements to date are impressive, to say the least. But this year, he’s working to take the newest business, WG 3D Home Design, into new markets across the country. Why not? He has already left his mark by building homes for clients throughout Columbia. He’s sure to dance his way to even greater success.
Age: 29
Fun Fact:
Zachary competed in high school rodeo in calf-roping events and he’s a licensed private pilot.
