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Construction Business Review
Velocity Consulting Services, LLC (VELO)
Redefining Staffing Excellence in Construction Management
Tamara Ellestad, Founder and CEOLabor shortages have become a major concern, particularly as the demand for skilled professionals continues to outpace supply. From engineers and project managers to highly specialized tradespeople, securing top-tier talent is more competitive than ever. In an industry where timelines and budgets are unforgiving, hiring the right people at the right time is crucial to a project's success.
That is where Velocity Consulting Services, LLC (VELO) steps in.
As a minority-owned (MBE) and certified woman-owned (WBE/WOSB) small business, Velocity Consulting Services, LLC (VELO) has established itself as an industry leader, seamlessly bridging the gap between companies and the skilled professionals they need. With a steadfast commitment to efficiency, tailored staffing solutions, and a deep understanding of industry challenges, VELO has earned a reputation as the preferred staffing partner for construction firms of all sizes.
Founded with a vision to revolutionize the staffing industry, VELO has experienced exponential growth over the past five years. The company has not only weathered industry adversities but has also thrived in the face of challenges, setting new benchmarks for seamless partnerships. Unlike conventional staffing agencies, VELO takes a holistic approach, recognizing that every client and candidate is unique.
“Our ability to provide customized solutions that align with specific business needs, budgets, and workforce demands is what defines us as a company,” says Tamara Ellestad, founder and CEO.
We invest heavily in technology, market research, and recruitment tools that allow us to identify and engage top talent faster and more effectively than traditional staffing firms
Staffing agencies often get a bad rap. Many operate with a transactional mindset, filling open roles as quickly as possible without truly understanding the needs of either the client or the candidate. This approach leads to high turnover, mismatched placements, and frustration on both sides.
VELO, on the other hand, takes a relationship-driven approach.
Ellestad emphasizes that both clients and candidates are equally valuable. A staffing company cannot succeed if it prioritizes one over the other. The team at VELO takes a deep dive into what clients need and what candidates want. Only then can they truly make successful placements.
This philosophy is what sets VELO apart. The company does not simply fill job openings—it creates long-term employment solutions. By taking the time to understand the culture, technical requirements, and long-term vision of each client, VELO ensures that every placement is not just a match but a strategic fit.
For candidates, VELO is more than just a job search tool—it is a career partner. The team takes the time to understand each professional’s experience, skills, and aspirations, ensuring that they are placed in roles where they can thrive. This results in higher job satisfaction, better retention rates, and ultimately, stronger teams for VELO’s clients.
The Science and Art of Recruiting
Ellestad describes it best when she explains that you cannot expect different results if you use the same bait and the same fishing tactics as everyone else.
Recruitment is not just about finding résumés that match job descriptions—it is both a science and an art. At VELO, the process is highly strategic and data-driven, yet also personalized and nuanced.
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Our ability to provide customized solutions that align with specific business needs, budgets, and workforce demands is what defines us as a company
Ellestad describes it best when she explains that you cannot expect different results if you use the same bait and the same fishing tactics as everyone else.
“You have to think differently, adapt to market shifts, and get creative in how you find talent. This is exactly what VELO does. We invest heavily in technology, market research, and recruitment tools that allow us to identify and engage top talent faster and more effectively than traditional staffing firms,” she says.
The recruitment process follows a structured, multi-step approach. It begins with client discovery, where VELO works to understand the client’s needs, company culture, and project timelines. Some clients provide detailed job descriptions, while others may simply say, "I need an MEP Superintendent with facility build experience."
VELO translates any request into a strategic talent search.
Next comes candidate sourcing. VELO utilizes AI-driven talent search tools, professional networks, and a proprietary database of pre-vetted professionals to identify the best candidates. But finding candidates is not enough—comprehensive vetting ensures that only the best are presented. VELO’s team conducts in-depth assessments, reviewing job history, compensation expectations, technical skills, and cultural fit to ensure a perfect match.
Hiring managers spend an average of just six seconds scanning a résumé. VELO understands this and works closely with candidates to optimize résumés and highlight key experience to maximize their chances of getting noticed. Once a placement is made, VELO stays engaged with both the client and the candidate to ensure a smooth transition and long-term success.
This hands-on, personalized approach has led to higher retention rates and more successful hires—a win-win for both companies and job seekers.
Championing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in Construction Staffing
As a minority- and woman-owned business, VELO has a unique perspective on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the workforce. Some companies actively prioritize diverse hiring practices, while others may not view DEI as a primary focus. Regardless of where a company stands, VELO’s mission is simple: Ensure that the most qualified person gets the job—period.
Ellestad emphasizes that the company's certification allows it to help clients meet their DEI goals, but more importantly, it signals to underrepresented professionals that they are seen. Too often, talented individuals get overlooked. VELO ensures that hiring decisions are based on skills and experience alone, eliminating unnecessary biases in the process.
Through VELO’s efforts, companies not only gain access to a broader, more diverse talent pool but also benefit from the innovation and fresh perspectives that come with an inclusive workforce. The commitment to fostering diverse hiring practices leads to stronger, more creative teams, ultimately driving greater success in projects and business operations.
Innovation, Growth, and Industry Impact
VELO is not just keeping up with industry trends—it is leading the charge. The company experienced an astonishing 42 percent growth in 2024, far surpassing its initial goal of 20 percent. This momentum is expected to continue into 2025, with key industry trends driving demand for specialized talent.
One of the biggest drivers of this growth is the rise of green manufacturing and sustainable construction. In response to this shift, VELO launched VELO ECO in 2024—a dedicated division focused on staffing for environmentally conscious building projects. With a strong focus on solar, renewable energy, and LEED-certified construction, VELO ECO is helping companies build a workforce that supports the future of sustainable infrastructure.
According to Ellestad, the company’s biggest challenge right now is that it has too much talent and not enough open positions to place them in. That should be music to the ears of companies struggling to find qualified people. VELO is poised to continue its growth and expand its impact, ensuring that businesses can access the talent they need while professionals find rewarding, fulfilling careers.
Why Construction Firms Trust VELO
The results speak for themselves. One of VELO’s largest clients saw a 75 percent increase in workforce efficiency after partnering with the firm. Time and time again, VELO has helped companies build teams that are skilled, reliable, and ready to tackle even the most complex projects.
But beyond the numbers, what truly sets VELO apart is its people-first approach. Clients trust VELO because they know they are getting more than just a staffing agency—they are getting a true partner who is invested in their success.
“At the end of the day, VELO is what it is because of our people. Our clients trust us. Our candidates trust us. And that is what makes us one of the best in the industry,” says Ellestad.
For construction firms seeking a reliable staffing partner, VELO offers an unmatched combination of expertise, efficiency, and commitment. With a deep understanding of the industry’s unique demands and a relentless drive to innovate, VELO is shaping the future of construction workforce solutions—one strategic placement at a time.
