Vincencia Adusei, the founder of VASE Management, has emerged as a prominent figure in Connecticut’s construction and real estate sectors. Despite initially resisting a career in construction, her journey from Ghana to New York City and finally to Connecticut has led her to become a trailblazer. Adusei’s company has undertaken numerous projects, including renovations of public schools, town halls, senior apartments, offices, and commercial sites across over a dozen towns and cities. Her influence is evident as she drives through New Haven, reflecting on the buildings she has transformed. Over the past seven years, VASE has expanded from three employees to 15, with plans to hire more superintendents. Adusei’s unique approach involves leaving a personal touch at each project site, symbolizing her commitment and connection to her work.

From Reluctance to Leadership

Adusei’s entry into the construction industry was anything but planned. Growing up in Ghana, where her family managed road development projects, she moved to the U.S. for education and initially pursued a career in advertising and event coordination. However, her path kept leading her back to construction. In 2011, she began consulting with small contractors, helping them overcome challenges like reading blueprints and securing financing. This experience eventually inspired her to take on her first major project—a demolition job for the Ansonia Housing Authority. Adusei’s transition from consultant to contractor was swift and successful, marking the beginning of her entrepreneurial journey.

Despite initial hesitation, Adusei embraced the challenges of the construction industry. She leveraged her background in business and her deep understanding of the sector’s intricacies to build a robust foundation for VASE Management. Her early experiences consulting for small contractors provided valuable insights into their struggles, particularly with financing. Recognizing this gap, Adusei took a bold step by bidding on and managing her first significant project. This pivotal moment not only transformed her career trajectory but also set the stage for VASE’s rapid growth. Through strategic planning and unwavering determination, she successfully navigated the complexities of the industry, transforming VASE into a respected name in Connecticut’s construction scene.

Building Relationships and Expanding Horizons

Adusei’s success is rooted in her ability to foster strong relationships with small businesses and maintain open communication channels. Every project begins with an in-person meeting to ensure everyone is aligned. This collaborative approach has earned her the trust of clients like Achievement First, a network of charter schools. Adusei emphasizes the importance of face-to-face interactions and mutual respect, likening her teams to a family working together towards a common goal. Her office environment reflects this ethos, with personalized touches that inspire creativity and teamwork.

Beyond Connecticut, Adusei’s ambitions extend to her homeland of Ghana. Inspired by the country’s “Great Return” initiative, she embarked on her first international project—a 44-unit condominium development in Kumasi. This venture represents a personal milestone, allowing her to leave a lasting footprint in the city where she grew up. Adusei envisions these condos as a convenient and luxurious option for diaspora visitors, offering services like property management and Airbnb hosting. Her innovative approach blends her American experience with her Ghanaian heritage, creating opportunities for both personal and professional growth. As VASE continues to expand, Adusei remains committed to fostering a culture of collaboration and excellence in every project she undertakes.