Founder Spotlight: MC Real Steel's Journey to $1M while Building with Purpose

Reaching $1M in revenue is a major milestone for any entrepreneur, but for Edith Carnero and her husband, Oscar Manzano, growth has always been about more than just the numbers. As founders of MC Real Steel Construction, they set out to build not only a successful business but also a company rooted in purpose and opportunity. We had the opportunity to learn more about them through the Spring 2024 cohort of the OKC Latino Accelerator, a program designed to connect entrepreneurs in Oklahoma City with the resources, mentorship, and community needed to scale their businesses to $1M in revenue. As they continue to grow, Edith and Oscar reflect on how they’ve navigated challenges, stayed committed to their mission, and built a company that values both growth and community.

What inspired you to start your business?

Definitely our journey as immigrants and coming from a low income family played a very important role. Our inspiration to start our business came from a deep desire to support our community and provide opportunities for others to thrive. We wanted to create a company that fosters an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome and valued. 

What advice would you give yourself in those early days of building your business?   

I would encourage myself to stay true to my vision, trust the process, and seek support or mentorship when needed. I’d remind myself the importance of balancing work with family life, making sure to prioritize self-care and time with loved ones. 

How did your mindset evolve over the course of the Program?   

At first, I was mainly focused on just the daily business challenges. This program taught me the importance of long-term planning and collaboration with others, which helped me gain more confidence. I feel like each session added new value and equipped me with the skills needed to reach this milestone.

What role has your culture played in shaping your idea of building a business? 

Our personal background as well as our culture have played a significant role in shaping our business. Growing up in a community where hard work, resilience, and collaboration were valued, we learned the importance of perseverance and supporting others. As an immigrant, we understand the challenges of navigating new environments, and this has motivated us to create a business that is inclusive and welcoming. 

Our culture has taught me the value of community, relationships, and giving back, and that is exactly what we want to reflect in the way we run my business.

What drives you to keep pushing forward, even when things get tough? 

my deep sense of responsibility to my family, my community, and my business. I’m determined to create a better future for my children and provide opportunities for others, I want my team to succeed and my people to know that everything is possible and that every obstacle is an opportunity to grow. 

What does this milestone mean to you personally and for your business?  

This milestone signifies growth, resilience, sacrifices (a lot of sacrifices) and the ability to overcome challenges. It shows that we’re on the right path, and it inspires me to continue striving for excellence while staying true to our values of inclusivity and service to others.

What advice would you share with other entrepreneurs on their journey to their first $1M?  

Stay focused on your vision, build strong relationships with mentors, partners, and your team. 

Most importantly, never lose sight of why you started—your passion, values, and purpose will keep you motivated even when things get tough.

What’s your long-term vision for your business and its impact on your community?      

My long-term vision for my business is to continue growing and becoming a leader in the structural steel industry while creating lasting positive change in my community. I want my company to provide more job opportunities.

Ultimately, I want my business to be a source of pride in the community, known for not just what we build, but the way we help others grow and succeed.

About MC Real Steel Construction

We specialize in Structural Steel Erection with a commitment to precision, safety and on- time project delivery. Serving Oklahoma, Texas, Louisiana, Kansas, Arkansas and Colorado, we bring expertise to education, healthcare and retail construction including new builds and remodels. Our team is built on integrity, attention to detail and takes pride in every beam we place, knowing it's more than just metal, it's the backbone of our communities.

We want to extend our deepest gratitude to our mentors and trade partners. Thank you for being part of our journey, together we're building more than structures, we're building legacies.

To learn more, visit MCRealSteelConstruction.com or connect with Edith on LinkedIn.