GCI, also known as Glenn’s Crane Institute, carries a legacy of mentorship, grit, and deep regard for an industry that quite literally keeps America standing. For more than thirteen years, K.C. Wallace worked as a crane operator, honing his craft under the guidance of a mentor who reshaped his future. That mentor, Robert Glenn, taught him not only how to handle cranes safely and skillfully but how to lead with integrity.

When Robert began planning retirement, he encouraged K.C. to return to the company with the intention of purchasing it. Robert’s unexpected passing halted that transition, yet it also sparked a fresh start. K.C. and his wife, Sarah, built their own training organization from the ground up, developing new curriculum, reconnecting with clients, and fostering a culture driven by professionalism and respect for the load-handling industry.

Today, GCI stands as a nationally accredited training provider, offering certification programs for crane operators, riggers, signal persons, and professionals working across industrial and transmission environments. Their certifications follow workers throughout their careers much like a driver’s license, giving students long-term value and access to higher-paying opportunities. Sarah manages operations as co-owner while K.C. leads instruction as CEO and subject matter expert. Together, they have shaped a company centered on safety, skill, and confidence for hundreds of students each year.

As their business expanded, GCI turned to the Longwood Small Business Development Center (SBDC) for support. Entrepreneurs in their region spoke highly of the Center, and the Wallaces were connected with advisors Dana Knott and Jacob Dolence, who quickly became trusted partners. With both owners immersed in daily operations, the SBDC offered a neutral sounding board for brainstorming, growth planning, and strategic decisions essential to scaling a technical training company.

The SBDC guided GCI through an important shift in focus, helping refine their direction for 2025 and identifying new opportunities. Dana and Jacob also introduced the Wallaces to financial partners who supported two major SBA loans, enabling the purchase of commercial property and an expanded equipment lineup. Four additional cranes significantly increased training capacity and elevated the professionalism of their in-house programs.