Supplier Spotlight: Joshua Nichols
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Name: Joshua Nichols
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Tell us about your career:
My career haas been built on relationships, service, and a passion for helping people improve the places they call home. I’ve spent over 20 years in sales and customer relations, with the last several years focused on the multifamily industry. I currently serve as the National Director of Business Development for Guardian Construction, a full-service general contractor specializing in interior and exterior renovations for multifamily communities, apartments, hotels, and commercial buildings.
Throughout my career, I’ve been fortunate to work with some incredible teams and ownership groups across the country. I’ve always believed that success in this industry comes from being approachable, dependable, and solution-oriented. Whether I’m walking a job site or sitting across the table from a potential partner, my goal is always the same: build trust, create value, and follow through with integrity.
I’ve also had the honor of serving on multiple association committees and boards, where I get to give back to an industry that has given me so much. From supporting education initiatives to participating in advocacy efforts, I’m passionate about helping move our industry forward.
At the end of the day, I’m proud to play a small role in helping communities grow and thrive—and I’m excited to keep doing that for years to come.
What advice do you have for someone just starting in your field:
If you're just getting started in this industry, my advice is to show up, stay consistent, and never stop learning. The multifamily world is built on people—relationships matter more than anything else. It doesn’t matter how much experience you have or what your title is; if you treat people with respect, keep your word, and do what you say you're going to do, you’ll stand out in a big way.
Don’t be afraid to start small. Some of the best opportunities I’ve had in my career started with a simple conversation, a handshake at a trade show, or stepping up to volunteer when no one else raised their hand. Get involved with your local apartment association. Join a committee. Attend events, even if you don’t know anyone yet. Just being in the room can lead to doors opening you never expected.
Stay curious. This industry is constantly evolving, and the moment you stop learning is the moment you stop growing. Ask questions. Seek out mentors. Learn from those who’ve been doing this a long time—and then pass that knowledge on to someone else when you get the chance.
And finally, lead with humility and integrity. Your reputation will outlast any project or promotion. Be someone people can count on—not just when it’s easy, but especially when it’s hard. If you work hard, put others first, and stay grounded in your values, success will come. Maybe not overnight, but it will come—and when it does, it’ll mean something.
Anything else you would like to share:
I’d just like to say how grateful I am to be part of this industry. The multifamily space is more than just buildings and renovations—it’s about people, communities, and the places they call home. I take a lot of pride in the role we play in improving those spaces and making a positive impact on residents’ lives, even if it's behind the scenes.
I’m also incredibly thankful for the associations—like AANC—that create opportunities for all of us to connect, grow, and give back. The relationships I’ve built through involvement in associations have been some of the most rewarding of my career. I truly believe we’re better when we support one another, and I’m proud to be part of a network of professionals who care deeply about this industry and the people in it.
Outside of work, I try to stay grounded in the things that matter most—my family, my friends, the outdoors, and being of service to others. Whether it’s hunting in the mountains, cooking for friends, or trading stories at an industry event, I believe in staying authentic and approachable. That’s what keeps me energized and connected.
If you’re reading this and wondering how to make your mark—just start showing up. This industry has a way of welcoming those who are willing to work hard, lead with heart, and lift others along the way.