A Letter from CEO, Ames Barnett
Welcome to Barnett Southern. Our company prides itself on delivering quality work and superior service to our customers. While our business achievements are significant, my greatest joy comes from being a dedicated husband to my wife, Ashley, and a loving father to our three children: Porter, Turner, and Barron. When I’m not at work, you’ll often find me coaching my sons’ Little League Baseball and Football teams.
I was born and raised in Washington, Georgia, where I learned the value of community service from an early age. My grandmother, Mildred Barnett, broke new ground as the first woman elected to Washington’s City Council, and my great uncle, Sam McGill, served as a Georgia State Senator. Inspired by their dedication, I also served on Washington’s City Council and completed two terms as Mayor. Our family has long been committed to public service and philanthropy.
My educational journey began at Washington-Wilkes Comprehensive High School. I then attended Georgia Southern University, where I founded Barnett Southern as a heavy civil site contractor. After earning my degree in Civil Engineering Technology, I continued to expand the company through hard work and the support of a dedicated team. In 2019, I furthered my education by attending Harvard Business School’s Owner/President Management Program, graduating in November 2021.
Barnett Southern has been recognized with numerous awards, including the 2014 “Big Business of the Year” by the Washington-Wilkes Chamber of Commerce, reflecting our success in both business and community service. Ashley and I were also participants in the 2011 Leadership Georgia program, where I served as Program Chair in 2012. In 2015, I was honored as the Washington-Wilkes Chamber of Commerce “Citizen of the Year.” I have also contributed to the Georgia State Workforce Investment Board and the Georgia Municipal Association.
Thank you for taking the time to learn more about Barnett Southern. We look forward to continuing our tradition of excellence and service.
Sincerely,
Ames Barnett
CEO of Barnett Southern Corporation