Maliq Cherry Continues His Grandfather’s Legacy at Lakeside Alliance Principal Firm Powers & Sons
When Maliq Cherry first interned at the Obama Presidential Center, most of the work was happening in-ground. In the summer of 2023, his first as a project engineer with Lakeside Alliance principal firm Powers & Sons, structures such as the parking garage and main tower started to take shape — and so did Maliq’s career trajectory in construction.
“My mom is the reason I studied architectural design…she did real estate,” Maliq, who graduated with a degree in architecture from Ball State University in May 2023, said. “So, I did showings with her growing up, and she always had extra floor plans around the house. I would mark them up and give her advice on them. We still joke about a photo of me when I was younger. I had a Bob the Builder outfit on.”
Today, Maliq can regard that costume as a degree of foreshadowing. Now working full-time on the Obama Presidential Center site, he enjoys seeing drawings come to life and learning from the process.
Construction fieldwork is something Maliq’s grandfather, George Gonzales, knows all about. He spent 20 years as a carpenter with Powers & Sons. Born in Chicago but raised in Gary, Indiana, Mr. Gonzales said his father introduced him to construction training to save him from the streets. He describes his time at Powers & Sons as one of the best things that’s ever happened to him.
“They mentored me and taught me what teamwork and family was about,” Mr. Gonzales said. “I feel I owe them a lot. They were a supportive company but a no-nonsense organization. I could go on and on, but there’s not enough paper in the world for me to express my thanks for the work ethics instilled by working at Powers & Sons.”
Mr. Gonzales is grateful his former employer has taken an interest in Maliq. “It is always hard to find willing mentors and that is what Powers & Sons has done for my grandson. They are giving him an opportunity to learn from the best and the brightest.”
With opportunity comes expectations, and Mr. Gonzales has his of Maliq. “I expect him to be a team player, exhibit loyalty, give the company 200%, invest in the company like they have invested in him by opening the doors of the construction trade.”
Maliq says his grandfather’s mentorship has been invaluable as he learns the ropes and identifies his specialization. They have had many conversations about the complications that can occur when the people in the office and the team in the field don’t communicate. “If the engineers haven’t held up their end, then the subcontractors or superintendents can get stalled,” Maliq said.
Construction is an industry with many quirks, such as the jargon and acronyms used. Last year, Maliq worked on the MEP team, which stands for mechanical, electrical and plumbing. This year, he’s working most closely with the MLB team, which stands for metals, landscaping and the building envelope, and includes subcontractors specializing in structural steel, spray insulation, fireproofing and asphalt. Mr. Gonzales encourages Maliq to always continue learning, and the pair often spend time together going over literature that helps Maliq further his knowledge on things such as structural steel, understanding the water table and the math used to calculate elevations.
“In a lot of the chats that we have, he informs me that I should not be afraid to ask questions, because most of the people who work in the construction industry learn as they go,” said Maliq.
For Mr. Gonzales, seeing his grandson work on such a historic project as the OPC is a source of pride. “The name Obama means so much for so many Black people in this country, especially Black males. It represents pride, accomplishments, and a legacy that belongs to all Black Americans.”
As Maliq continues carving out his niche in construction, Mr. Gonzales is reflecting on the importance of legacy: "I'm very proud of Maliq. I hope he'll be with the Powers team as long as I was or even longer. Working on the Obama Presidential Center project has given my grandson a once in a lifetime opportunity to be in the company of President Obama — a lasting memory that few young Black men will experience, and a legacy that I can be proud of."
Maliq and his grandfather are not the only ones making a multi-generational impact at Powers & Sons. Mamon Powers, Jr., CEO and Chairman of the Board of Powers & Sons, is following in the footsteps of his father, Mamon Powers, Sr., who founded the firm in 1967. Today, third generation leadership — including Lakeside Alliance’s very own Kelly Powers Baria, daughter of Mamon Powers Jr. — is stepping in to lead the firm’s next chapter.
George Gonzales’s Seven Tips for Making it in Construction:
Ask questions. “This is the way to avoid mistakes in understanding your job.”
Always follow up on what you're doing. “All projects have a check and balance.”
Be a good teammate. “Team members must help each other because when one goes down, we all go down.”
Be accountable, reliable and trustworthy.
Seek advice and keep an open mind for learning.
Remain humble and thankful.
Believe in yourself.