Necole Parker Has Built The ELOCEN Group Into a Powerhouse in Government Contracting
Nearly a decade ago, MBE Magazine introduced readers to the powerhouse behind The ELOCEN Group, Necole Parker, as the Winter 2016 cover story. Even then, it was clear she was building more than a company—she was architecting a legacy rooted in excellence, equity, and purpose. At the time, she was rapidly establishing herself as a bold leader in construction and facilities management, navigating a male-dominated industry with fierce vision and unshakable faith.
Today, Parker’s story continues to inspire. In this exclusive Q&A, originally written by our partners at the National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC), she opens up about the long game of relationship-building, the power of collaboration over competition, and leading through one of the most difficult personal battles of her life. With transparency and tenacity, she reflects on her journey as a founder, CEO, and cancer survivor—offering a timely reminder that leadership is not just about contracts and milestones, but about courage, clarity, and impact.
As we reflect on her incredible evolution since gracing our cover, it’s an honor to share this latest chapter of her story—one that continues to redefine what’s possible for diverse suppliers across the country.
NMSDC: Necole, could you begin by sharing your background and what motivated you to establish The ELOCEN Group? What challenges did you face as a minority entrepreneur starting out?
Parker: I founded The ELOCEN Group with a vision to elevate the standard of excellence in government contracting while creating real pathways for minority talent to thrive in the facilities, logistics, and operations sectors. My background is in program and construction management, and over the years I’ve worked diligently to position our firm as a trusted partner across federal and commercial markets. As a Black woman and a small business owner standing just over five feet tall, I’ve often had to walk three times as fast just to be seen and heard. One of my greatest challenges starting out was gaining access to decision-makers and earning a seat at the table, especially in the male-dominated construction industry. But I’ve learned that consistency, character, and competence always make a way. I didn’t just want to win contracts, I wanted to build a legacy.
Strategic Relationship Building
NMSDC: Necole, you’ve mentioned that The ELOCEN Group is intentional about targeting companies you’d like to partner with, even if it takes years to cultivate those relationships. Can you walk us through your approach to strategic relationship building and how this long-game mindset has contributed to your success?
Parker: We don’t wait for opportunities to come to us. We identify the companies we want to work with based on alignment, capacity, and shared values, and then we begin intentionally engaging. Whether that’s through industry events, mutual contacts, or simply staying visible in their ecosystem, we remain consistent. In some cases, it has taken years before a contract or opportunity was presented. But building relationships over time, with integrity and value, has paid off. Our partnership with Honeywell is a great example. It started with capability meetings and advocacy years before we were ever awarded a contract. Today, we’re delivering on multiple 30-year projects with them. That didn’t happen overnight. It was the result of trust, persistence, and preparation.
Becoming certified through NMSDC was a pivotal turning point for The ELOCEN Group. It didn’t just validate our capabilities; it positioned us to compete at the highest level. That certification opened doors to conversations and contracts with Fortune 100 companies that previously felt out of reach. Through NMSDC, we gained access to procurement opportunities, executive-level mentorship, supplier development programs, and a national network of decision-makers who are committed to building with diverse suppliers. It wasn’t just about visibility. It was about credibility, and that made all the difference.
Collaboration Over Competition
NMSDC: In an industry that often feels competitive, how have you cultivated a culture of collaboration, both internally with your team and externally with other minority-owned businesses?
Parker: At The ELOCEN Group, we believe in collaboration over competition. Internally, we emphasize shared leadership, professional development, and cross-functional teamwork to create a culture where everyone feels empowered to contribute. Externally, we partner with other minority-owned businesses to deliver on large-scale contracts. For example, we work closely with RSC, a mechanical and building operations firm, as a strategic subcontractor on our Honeywell projects. These collaborations create greater capacity and sustainability for everyone involved. There’s more than enough opportunity to go around, and when we work together, we expand what’s possible for all of us.
Leadership & Mentorship
NMSDC: As a successful CEO and minority business owner, what challenges have you faced as a leader, and how have you navigated those obstacles to grow your business?
Parker: One of the greatest challenges in leadership is sustaining growth while navigating uncertainty. In the last 18 months, I was diagnosed with Stage 2 breast cancer in two areas. I went through treatment while continuing to lead my company without anyone knowing. That season tested me in ways I never imagined, but it also refined my purpose. I rolled up my sleeves, studied a brand-new service line, hired and trained new talent, and secured some of our most transformative contracts, all while fighting for my life. I’ve learned that true leadership is revealed not when things are easy, but when everything is at stake. That experience strengthened me as a woman, as a CEO, and as a visionary.
Can you share how mentorship or strategic partnerships have helped guide you throughout your entrepreneurial journey?
Mentorship has been a cornerstone of my growth as an entrepreneur. Over the years, I’ve been blessed with sponsors, advisors, and mentors who coached, challenged, and advocated for me. Whether it was gaining access to decision-makers or receiving guidance on compliance and certifications, these relationships helped me avoid costly mistakes and move with greater clarity. They also reminded me that I’m not in this alone. Every successful entrepreneur needs a circle of people who see your potential and help you walk in it.
NMSDC: How do you manage to stay motivated and inspire your team to stay committed to your company’s mission, especially in moments of uncertainty?
Parker: My faith in God keeps me centered and focused. It gives me strength when I can’t see what’s ahead and reminds me of the purpose behind the work. I also believe in showing up. Even in hard seasons, I remain visible and involved because I know my team draws energy from how I lead. I invest in their growth, offer continuous training, and make sure they feel supported. When people feel seen and valued, they go above and beyond. We’re not just building a company. We’re building people who believe in the mission and want to be part of something meaningful.
Closing Thoughts
NMSDC: Finally, Necole, for readers who want to learn more about The ELOCEN Group and stay connected, where can they follow your journey or access your services?
Parker: They can visit us at www.elocengroup.com to learn more about our services and stay connected. We’re also active on LinkedIn and Instagram, where we share updates about our projects, community work, and team highlights. This is a defining season for our company, and we welcome opportunities to connect with partners and clients who believe in vision, excellence, and lasting impact.
