APIS enables successful completion of multi-million dollar projects varying in nature, size, and scope

Buying a house is an important decision which involves looking at many factors. One of these factors is the brand you choose to buy a house from. The moment you start looking out for properties, you can first see what these reputed brands are offering. A reputed real estate developer can also serve as a measure of the value of the property. This developer has all the right credentials, permission for construction and also makes properties in accordance with the law.

We present to you APIS, which is a veteran and women owned small business. Their expertise enables them to apply their skills and management experience towards the successful completion of multi-million dollar projects varying in nature, size, and scope. They are the catalyst for successful development and the hub that drives projects forward to completion and have experience managing all aspects of complex projects.

We had a detailed conversation with Turkia Awada Mullin, CEO, about how her life experiences brought a change in her personality and about the company’s journey so far

Q. What makes APIS relevant in today’s times? Could you give us some context?

In today’s volatile real estate market, APIS provides unbiased direction and support to investors. We provide access to timely and relevant information so that our clients can make informed decisions about their real estate projects

Q. Have you always been entrepreneurial? What led you to take that first step and set up your own business?

At age 12, I began my first job as a paper carrier for the local newspaper. I delivered over 120 newspapers in rain, sleet, snow, and sun each morning before school. I quickly learned the importance of teamwork and hired my sister for $10 per week. After my first anniversary, I earned the award “Paper Carrier of the Year.” That success was the culmination of determination and hard work. It had a lifetime impact on me.

Q. How did being in the U.S. Army prepare you as a leader?

I loved my service in the Army. It was humbling and fascinating. I gained an appreciation for other viewpoints. I was a truck driver stationed in a MASH unit in Ft Lewis, WA. I was a determined 18-year-old. I thought I knew it all. Shortly after arriving at the post, the battalion arranged a basketball game for the women to play in front of the entire battalion. At the time, I was a private E-1. I was given one instruction to follow while playing the game: “Stay away from Captain K.” It would be political suicide to challenge a Captain of one of the companies in that public setting. During the game, Captain K went up for a layup. I blocked her shot. Unfortunately, Captain K fell on her elbow and broke down crying in front of the entire battalion. After the game, I was summoned to the Colonel’s office. (Typically, if summoned to the Colonel’s office, you have performed some meritorious action, or you’re being court-martialed.) Shaking in my boots, I reported to the Colonel’s office. The Colonel asked me about myself and explained he was impressed. I was the only player who challenged Captain K. He asked me to become his driver.

In the Army, I met sincere, caring leaders who always put the troops first. They were leaders who instilled in the troops the importance of teamwork. My military service was a confidence builder encouraging me to believe in my abilities, be disciplined, be loyal, and trust in my colleagues. I attribute much of my success to these fundamental character traits.

Q. What does innovation mean to you?

Innovation means providing new ideas, methods, strategies, products, etc. At APIS, we challenge the status quo to improve outcomes. While working in government, I quickly realized that although many fantastic people work in government, the archaic and obsolete structure encourages people to embrace the status quo. As a result, they often reject new suggestions to implement changes that can result in better outcomes. Instead, they take the path of least resistance.  

Q. How are you challenging the status quo with APIS?

Our team members are requested to meet to suggest innovations they want to consider. Our clients also provide suggestions that APIS might implement; these new ideas and strategies are given consideration. Individuals are rewarded for their input if their innovation is implemented. Change is welcome and often provides incentives and innovative culture in the workplace.

Q. What makes APIS unique?

We are selective in the projects we consider and the clients we serve. We want to add value and ensure the work is fulfilling. At APIS, we strive to ensure it’s the right fit for the potential client and company. There needs to be an alignment of goals and values. The partnership needs to benefit both parties.

Q. Could you tell us about an instance where you helped a small-scale business?

During my employment in government, I was approached by a small I.T. gaming business considering moving its office from Michigan to Washington State. They were under the impression that they would receive more “support” if they were located near Microsoft’s headquarters. I listened to their story and realized I could help them with their fiber optics capacity, which was meaningful to them. In addition, I had just assisted a data center company secure space in a nearby building. After learning about the I.T. company’s needs, I connected them to the local township and the data center company. Four months later, I received a note from the company CEO thanking me for caring and listening. He told me that my introductions allowed him to tap into an incredible fiber optics network at a relatively low cost allowing him to take his I.T. company to the next level and add seven more employees. 

Q. How important is it to have a healthy work culture at the workplace?

How do you define the work culture at APIS? I tell my employees that they need to love what they do in life. Your work becomes your second family. Your work culture will infect every aspect of your life. At APIS, we work hard and play hard and enjoy it.

Meet the leader behind the success of the company

For more than twenty-five years, Turkia Awada Mullin has served in various roles— both in the private and public sectors. During her eight-year stint in government, Ms. Mullin served as the Principal Attorney for real estate and the Chief Development Officer of the 13th largest county in the country. Ms. Mullin leverages her diverse business, real estate, and legal background to serve as a trusted advisor. She offers viable strategies and solutions to commercial real estate owners and occupiers. Ms. Mullin is an owner’s representative for large-scale, complex real estate developments evaluating, developing, and executing pragmatic real estate strategies, including issues affecting development, underwriting, legal, finance, workouts, restructuring, receivership, and tax considerations. A proud veteran of the U.S. Army, Ms. Mullin was twice honored with the Army Commendation Medal and the Army Achievement Medal.