Issue 2, 2018

Southeast Michigan Contractors  Issue 2 2018 7 A ll work and no play makes for a long day, which is why Jackson Associates, Inc. President Rick Jackson, likes to live the island lifestyle when he can. In late 2017, Rick took a series of flights, water taxis and land taxis to arrive at the remote Necker Island to install fire protection systems. Jackson, who is a long-time ABC of Southeastern Michigan member, owns and operates Jackson Associates, Inc. a fire protection company located in Commerce Township. Founded in the late 1970's, Jackson has designed, installed, and maintained fire protection systems for countless industrial and commercial properties throughout southeast Michi- gan and now—the world. Necker Island is roughly a 74-acre island located in the Caribbean in the British Virgin Islands chain. The island remained uninhabited until the late 20th century when the Chairman of Virgin Group, Sir Richard Branson purchased the entirety of the island. It took him three years and some $10 million to turn it into his private island retreat. In 2011, The Great House burned down in a blaze believed to be caused by lightning from Tropical Storm Irene. The Great House was subse- quently rebuilt with an expanded Great Room for which Jackson will provide the fire suppression system for. “It was a beautiful structure that I imagine no one thought was in any real danger,” Jackson said. “Fire suppression systems are like insurance, you never realize you need it until you actually need it. I am excited to give this new structure the needed peace of mind and protection it deserves.” continues m MEMBERS GO INTERNATIONAL