Above Group: Building Solutions with Purpose, Precision, and People at the Core

From Family Traditions to Engineering Excellence:

Above Group’s story begins with Nicholas Kugler’s early exposure to construction through his family. “I soldered my first pipe at six years old because if I wanted to spend time with my dad, I had to work alongside him,” Nick recalls. His father, a master plumber, and his grandfather, an architect and mechanical contractor, inspired Nick’s passion for design and building.

After serving in the military, Nick worked in mechanical contracting, which became physically challenging due to service-related injuries. Observing engineers on the job, he decided to pursue an engineering degree, eventually transitioning into consulting roles at prominent firms. Driven by a calling to start his own business, Nick launched Above Group in 2014 after designing a product prototype for a friend’s nonprofit. “That first project gave me the nudge I needed to start Above Group,” he shares.

What began as a side venture soon became a full-time business. By 2015, Nick left his day job, hired his first employee, and committed to building a company rooted in faith, excellence, and service.

A Culture of Ownership and Collaboration:

Above Group thrives on a culture built around empowerment, accountability, and generosity. The company’s values include Extreme Team and Buffalo Mentality, emphasizing teamwork and tackling challenges head-on. Nick explains, “Everyone here knows they’re accountable for their role and empowered to do their best work. When we all give 100%, it’s transformative.”

Transparency and work-life balance are cornerstones of Above Group’s culture. “We don’t believe in burnout,” Nick states. The company avoids excessive overtime, fostering a healthy, sustainable work environment. “We value our team members’ lives outside of work. It’s about generosity, not greed.”

Delivering Impactful Solutions:

Above Group’s expertise spans design drawings, technical specifications, and construction administration services, ensuring projects are executed with precision. The company works on complex projects, from healthcare facilities to government contracts, with a focus on prime contract work that highlights their project management acumen.

Their ability to balance technical excellence with human-centered design sets them apart. “We’re not just engineers—we’re problem-solvers who care about the results,” Nick says. Above Group’s team of certified Project Management Professionals (PMPs) ensures seamless coordination, making them a trusted partner in the industry.

Overcoming Challenges:

Launching Above Group presented challenges, from navigating Florida’s competitive engineering market to balancing growth with operational sustainability. Early on, Nick managed dual full-time roles, working at Above Group while maintaining another job until the business reached critical mass. “There were tough times, but trusting God and staying committed helped us push through,” he shares.

Above Group’s approach to scaling emphasizes focus: pursuing only the projects that align with their expertise and values. “When we started saying no to work outside our niche, we grew faster and better,” Nick explains.

What It Means to Be and Honoree:

For Nick and his team, being recognized as a GrowFL honoree is a meaningful validation of their journey. “This award is about the people who have made Above Group what it is today,” Nick shares. “It’s a testament to our team, our culture, and our faith.” While Nick prefers working behind the scenes, the recognition reflects Above Group’s mission-driven success.

Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs:

Nick offers practical and heartfelt advice to entrepreneurs: “Trust people. Involve others at the highest levels as early as possible—success is a team sport.” He emphasizes the importance of letting go of the need to do everything alone, a lesson he learned through experience. “The sooner you delegate and empower others, the faster you can grow.”

Notable Community Involvement:

Faith and service are central to Above Group’s mission. Nick’s commitment to his faith drives Above Group’s outreach, including mission trips and support for nonprofit initiatives. The company also champions workforce development, providing remote work opportunities that expand access to top talent across the nation. “We’ve always been about creating opportunities and using our blessings to bless others,” Nick shares.