What encouraged you to work in this career field?
My father was a Navy fighter pilot that constantly renovated our homes each time we moved to a new area. I realize early that I loved working with tools and building projects with him using my hands.
What’s the most rewarding part of your job?
Helping people figure out how and what we and they can do with little more than an idea or concept.
What do you enjoy most about your work?
Converting something that is unimaginable to the imaginable.
What has been your greatest accomplishment?
Development of our reputation as the premier renovation company in the area.
What motivates you daily?
My wife, my family, our customers, the staff and supporting subcontractors and vendors that support, trust and respect, and continue to count on me to provide for them.
What education/training does a person need to get started in your field?
It depends on your passion and future goals. I started with basic community college courses to help develop my foundation for writing, mathematics, and business related to my goal to be a respected craftsman and future contractor. I took a few classes in drafting and art to help determine what I truly wanted to do and if I was good at it. I also always took a job either part or full time related to the profession I was interested in. I worked for small home builder that self-performed all aspect of construction, a cabinet maker, and then a commercial contractor that used modern technology for estimating and managing projects. It’s great to work with your hands but one day you may not be physically able. Get the education and training for other aspects of your field like the technical, business, or even sales portion.
What advice do you have for those considering entering into a career in your career field?
Learn and find out as much as you can about your field and the fields connecting to your possible career. This will enable you to determine or find out what really matters to you and what your passion is. Ask yourself question like how can I grow, what other things will I be able to do and be creative at in this field?
What is the secret to your success?
Have a mentor and surround yourself with talented people. It’s extremely important to have a mentor. I’ve always had a mentor or a partner that I consider either smarter or seasoned and successful. Someone with good habits, faith, and morals that will be open and honest and willing to truly mentor.
Hire good people and don’t worry if they may leave. Help them grow so if they do leave you’ll have a lasting alliance for the future.
Always have fun!