Ray grew up always knowing his passion was carpentry. After a few years of various jobs that eventually landed him in Richmond, Ray decided to quit his job and go to work as a carpenter’s assistant. From there he transitioned into a commercial construction job and eventually decided to go into business for himself where he eventually made the switch into the residential construction sphere. Nearly 30 years later, R.A. Praught has become one of Richmond’s most respected general contracting companies whose name is synonymous with quality and integrity. When Ray is not working, he can usually be found spending time on the James River fishing, in his garden, or with his family.
Michael grew up working with and learning from Ray over the summers of his youth and into his college years. He attended the University of Virginia and received his degree in Philosophy in 2010. After graduating, Michael considered several different career paths but ultimately decided that following in his father’s footsteps was the right decision. “I always like to tell people that 10 years ago, I wouldn’t have believed you if you had told me I’d have chosen to go into business with my dad, but now that I’m here I can’t imagine doing anything else. I really have grown to love what I do and the people we work for.” When Michael isn’t on the job, he can be found checking out the newest Richmond restaurant, grabbing a beer at one of the city’s many breweries, or enjoying the great outdoors.
Kathy met Ray in 1986 as a dental hygienist. Shortly thereafter, they were married. Kathy serves as the office manager and is in charge of the books for the company. She enjoys spending time with her family, watercoloring, and helping others.
Our Core Values
At R.A. Praught, our goal is to provide our customers with the absolute highest quality construction services in a timely and cost-effective manner. We believe this is accomplished by using the best products and highest caliber people, through a contractor-client relationship that is founded upon openness and honesty and is fueled by a mutual respect, and through good old-fashioned hard work and dedication to each and every project we are asked to complete.
Community Involvement
01
Rebuilding Together Richmond
R.A. Praught helps sponsor a house each year along with other members of NARI. Ray and Michael have both served as tech leads in the past for other groups volunteering with Rebuilding Together Richmond. Ray has also been a house captain for the NARI-sponsored house.
02
French Food Festival
Ray and his wife have both volunteered for the past several years at Richmond’s French Food Festival. Ray’s wife, Kathy, is in charge of the dessert tent and Ray helps out serving beer and wine.
03
Friends of Scouting
Both of Ray’s sons are Eagle Scouts. After seeing the positive effects the Boy Scouts of America had on his boys, Ray decided to help the greater efforts of the BSA here in Richmond. R.A. Praught has long been a donor at the annual Friends of Scouting benefit and plans to continue its support for many years to come.