After working in both the information technology and staffing industries for more than 25 years, Norma Jean McClain decided to start Tekchix to provide IT recruitment services for businesses of all sizes across the United States.
“I wanted to create a company that truly focused on two things: positive experiences for our clients, candidates and employees, and exceptional outcomes,” she said. “I am proud that we have achieved both, and we are committed to continuing this high level of service.”
McClain started Tekchix — previously located on Metairie Road — in September 2017. While the offices there were cozy and non-traditional, McClain didn’t realize how cramped the staff was in the space until she found a new office space on North Causeway Boulevard.
“When I first saw the space, I wasn’t sure it would be right,” she said. “It hadn’t been updated recently, and it took some imagination to envision what some new paint and flooring could do. My awesome real estate agent, Austin Lavin, helped me think that through. The floor plan was perfect for us, and the extra space was much needed. I didn’t think that traditional office space would work, but Austin convinced me it was what I needed at this time for my company, and he was right. I initially didn’t want to be on Causeway, but it has turned out to be a perfect location. Also, the Jefferson Chamber is fantastic.”
I wanted to create a beautiful space that would feel both welcoming and professional. I wanted our team to enjoy walking in each day and feel inspired. and uplifted.
Working as a collaborative company with five other staff members, McClain needed comfortable meeting space. As such, a conference room was a key component.
“I am on the phone a lot, so I [also] needed an office [where] I didn’t disturb the team,” she said. “A recruiter’s job is stressful, so we also needed a space to decompress, [and] we needed a space that had plenty of windows to let in the sunlight.”
McClain, who worked through her landlord, the Feil Group, began the remodel in April 2023 and finished the following October after a long wait for furniture. While the layout was perfect —McClain only had to add a closet — she initially hired a decorator to refresh the space but soon decided to do the interior design herself to transform the space in a way that would achieve her specific vision.
“No one was going to be able to read my mind, and I wasn’t going to be able to articulate it effectively,” she said. “I wanted to create a beautiful space that would feel both welcoming and professional. I wanted our team to enjoy walking in each day and feel inspired and uplifted. The colors were important. The artwork selection was important, too. I took a great deal of time to select just the right pieces. The colors and investing in quality furniture and lots of carefully selected artwork, gave us the look and feel that represents our brand and culture.”
McClain especially loves the main entry, which features Tekchix’s signage in brand colors. “The room is beautiful but also functional,” she said. “The [custom] furniture is comfortable for visitors but also has tables for laptops so our team can actually work in this space as well. I didn’t want a room that was only used for visitors. I wanted us to use all of our space.”
She and her team couldn’t be happier with the results.
“Our space is beautiful, comfortable, welcoming and elevated,” she said. “It inspires us to do our best. The space you work in really makes a difference in your mood, your pride in the company and your own self esteem. I feel that I have provided a place where our team can thrive and people outside our company enjoy visiting. We [also have] found our new office elevated our productivity.”
Tekchix 3445 N. Causeway Blvd. // Suite 701
thetekchix.com // linkedin.com/company/tekchix
