Our History
Founded on Family Values
The Ulm family’s business legacy is rooted in hard work, humility, and enduring family values. It began with World War II veteran Joe Ulm, a respected stucco and plastering contractor in Augusta, GA. Joe built his business on craftsmanship, integrity, and a belief that quality work—and a good sense of humor—creates lasting relationships.
Joe’s son, William Lee Ulm Sr., one of four boys, learned these principles early in life. At just 10 years old, William started working alongside his father on job sites, gaining firsthand experience in the value of job site efficiency, grit, and time management—lessons that would serve him throughout his career.
At 15, seeking a better future, William left home and moved to Miami during the 1970s construction boom. There, he worked as a plasterer, saving diligently before eventually seizing an opportunity to join a small startup called National Traveler. Under his leadership, National Traveler grew into one of the largest van conversion companies of its time, employing over 1,000 people across four locations and producing more than 1,000 vans per month.
Experience & Resources
With deep operational insight and strong capital resources, ULM Corporation is uniquely positioned to support sustainable growth and performance across its investments and partnerships.
Reaching New Horizons
In 1999, William and his wife, Marcia, founded MLU Services, initially providing post-disaster debris removal. Through innovation and adaptability, MLU evolved into a leading federal contractor for FEMA. By 2024, it ranked as the third most awarded disaster contractor in U.S. history, recognized for its rapid response capabilities, operational efficiency, and people-first approach.
In May 2024, after decades of growth, the Ulm family divested MLU Services in a landmark transaction with Michael Baker International, one of the largest acquisitions in the disaster response sector. The family took pride in passing on a company built on resilience and excellence.
William and Marcia’s sons, William Ulm Jr. and Joseph Ulm, were raised with the same work ethic that shaped the generations before them. From childhood through adulthood, they worked on job sites, supported the family business through long days and demanding seasons, and advanced from laborers to field managers and eventually to executive roles. Their experience—from hands-on operations to strategic financial planning—reflects a deep understanding of what it takes to build and sustain successful enterprises.
Responsible Expansion
Our team has built a wide-range of successful businesses from the ground up, and we take great pride in distributing what we’ve learned with our partners.
Today
The Ulm Family Office continues this legacy by owning, operating, and investing in high-quality companies. Guided by the family’s long-standing commitment to excellence, integrity, and innovation, the office focuses on creating enduring value across industries while honoring the principles that have defined the Ulm family for generations.
