ABOUT THE TEAM

  • Jerry "Chip" Ikerd is an accomplished and successful entrepreneur known for his achievements across various industries. With his extensive experience in development projects, real estate investment funds, custom residential properties, scaling commercial development projects and hotel/hospitality ventures, Chip has demonstrated his aptitude for thriving in the investment arena.

    Chip has successfully overseen multiple large-scale projects in Nashville's urban core, leaving a significant impact on the city's development landscape. His reach extends beyond Tennessee, encompassing development deals and real estate projects in the Southern United States and the Republic of Panama.

    Chip's exceptional investment acumen and strategic approach have been key factors in his success. His ability to identify lucrative opportunities and forge strategic partnerships and joint ventures has contributed significantly to the growth and prosperity of his ventures. Chip's visionary mindset and capacity to seize emerging opportunities have positioned him as a respected leader in the industry.

    Currently, Chip is involved in over 30 companies either as a partner, investor, or leader. This diverse portfolio includes real estate and development projects, micro-financing initiatives, and hotel construction and operating companies, particularly in the Republic of Panama. Additionally, he is engaged in real estate, development, and property management companies in Tennessee and Kentucky. Chip's involvement across these diverse sectors showcases his versatility and adaptability as an entrepreneur.

    Chip's success is underscored by his embodiment of three core traits: servant leadership, humbleness, and graciousness. These qualities have not only influenced his business ventures but have also shaped his interactions with others and his commitment to giving back to the community. Through his service with Macedonian Missions and other non-profit organizations, Chip has made a meaningful impact on over 15 countries across six continents, demonstrating his dedication to making a positive difference in the world.

    Jerry "Chip" Ikerd's entrepreneurial journey is marked by his strategic acumen, humility, and commitment to service. His ability to lead successful projects, identify opportunities, and cultivate partnerships has solidified his position as a respected entrepreneur. With his diverse portfolio of ventures and his genuine desire to contribute to the betterment of communities globally, Chip continues to inspire and make a lasting impact.

  • Julie Bass is an accomplished construction professional and the Vice President of Construction at Bluegrass Capital Builders. With an extensive background in residential construction, she brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her role. Julie also serves as the Qualifying Agent for Bluegrass Capital Builders, ensuring compliance with industry regulations and overseeing the company's construction operations.

    Julie's career in the construction industry began as a Project Manager for Echo Construction, where she quickly established herself as a capable leader. During her tenure from 2012 to 2014, she successfully managed the construction of 22 infill homes, 6.6 Million Dollar Project. Additionally, Julie played a key role in the restoration of multiple fire and water damage projects, showcasing her ability to tackle complex challenges with precision and efficiency.

    After her successful stint at Echo Construction, Julie joined Aerial Development in 2014. Over the course of two years, she led the construction of 78 infill homes, a 27 Million Dollar Project. Her expertise and attention to detail ensured the timely completion of these projects, contributing to Aerial Development's reputation for delivering quality homes.

    Julie's career continued to flourish as she transitioned to Highland Homes, where she served as a Project Manager. In this role, she oversaw the construction of 227 infill homes, townhomes, and custom homes. Her leadership and expertise played a vital role in ensuring the successful completion of these projects, solidifying Highland Homes' position as a reputable residential construction company.

    Driven by a passion for construction excellence, Julie joined Bluegrass Capital Builders, where she continues to make a significant impact. Her diverse experience and proficiency in managing large-scale projects, such as mixed-use buildings, further enhance the company's capabilities. With a keen eye for detail and a commitment to delivering exceptional results, Julie is an invaluable asset to the Bluegrass Building Group team.

    Julie's dedication to her craft is evident in her pursuit of professional certifications. She has successfully completed the TN BC-A, B Combined Res/Commercial Contractor Exam, further demonstrating her commitment to maintaining the highest standards of construction expertise.

    As the Vice President of Construction and Qualifying Agent for Bluegrass Capital Builders, Julie Bass brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success to the table. Her leadership, expertise, and commitment to excellence make her an integral part of the Bluegrass Building Group, ensuring that every project is executed with precision, quality, and client satisfaction.

  • Ron currently serves as Pre-Construction Project Manager for Bluegrass Building Group. He joined the team in May 2023 following his retiring from Norfolk Southern Corporation in Atlanta, Georgia. Ron comes to the table with almost three decades of experience in operations management.

    Ron served Norfolk Southern in several leadership roles within the train dispatching operations during his 27-years tenure with Norfolk Southern. 

    Ron is an accomplished leader in the disciplines of operations and project management. Ron is credited with creating new initiatives in train dispatching operations and community interaction with Norfolk Southern. He carries a diverse background in team and project leadership. Ron’s passion is creating new ideas to make business run more efficiently. 

    While new to the construction industry, Ron is excited to apply his leadership skills to his new role at Bluegrass Building Group. He looks forward to pursuing professional certifications in both construction and real estate.

  • Natasha Taylor is currently the Director of Operations & Analytics for Bluegrass and has served in that capacity since 2019. She supports the construction team by managing A/P and A/R and has also served as property manager and operations liaison for Bluegrass’ real estate investments and developments. She has 20+ years of experience supporting the operations of service-based businesses and entrepreneurships and previously served as head of operations of a New York-based Executive Advisory firm. Ms. Taylor graduated with a degree in Engineering Sciences from Yale University, with a focus in Chemical Engineering.

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