A MAN ON A MISSION….
As early as I can remember, I was fascinated with what I could build or create with my own hands. And, if we’re being frank, I found the demolition fun too. Being the son of a second generation glazier, I learned a lot about the industry from an early age. As a novice glazier, I was exposed to many high profile opportunities, such as building storefronts for high-end boutiques like BCBG. As with any job, however, there came a time where my thirst for knowledge exceeded the opportunities that were available to me. Not only was I interested in how to complete a specific job, but also why it was necessary to do so in that way. Following a few years of independent study in college, I decided it was time to take what I had learned from the family business and expand upon it in a new environment.
In my new position I quickly learned that there were many ways to complete a job and that, more often than not, it involved a lot of improvisation; a capacity that I was lacking at this point in my career. This was the definitive “sink or swim” moment for me. Much to the credit of my bosses’ and co-workers’ mentoring and understanding, and my determination to succeed, I was able to thrive in this new environment. In a few short years, I worked my way up to Lead Project Manager overseeing a diverse array of complex projects throughout the tri-state area. These projects included the installation of ACM paneling in brand-new 13 story apartment buildings in Long Island City, New York, the construction of custom, handmade table tops and mirrors, the historical restoration of exterior facades of pre-World War I New York City buildings, and the installation of mirrors and shower doors for both residential and commercial real estate. Given my foundation from the family business, and my exposure to a plethora of techniques and knowledge gained from my new colleagues and bosses, I became a confident and capable glazier.
Naturally, it came time for another challenge. While I was able to expand my skills as a glazier under my last experience, I found that I wanted to take on a more active role in my career. As such, an opportunity arose with the family business wherein I was afforded more responsibilities and the possibility of expanding the business - and I did just that. Over the next seven years, in partnership with my brother, we expanded the business by securing multiple million dollar real-estate development projects in the expanding tri-state area; one such project was a new apartment complex named The Pearl in Edgewater, New Jersey. Initially we were contracted to install mirrors exclusively. However, once our clients were exposed to the array of work we were capable of, they decided to hire us for the entire suite of glasswork required in the construction of the new building. The new contract included the installation of mirrors, showers, Marvin windows, custom railing for balconies and fire pit glass enclosures. The entire project lasted five years and required the installation of over 700 mirrors and shower door enclosures, 3000 feet of CRL railing and 1000 Marvin windows.
Indeed, throughout my career I have been inspired to learn new skills to address the needs of each specific project presented to me. I learned how to handcraft two inch dowels in to working handrails to build a floating staircase. Given my work, I was then commissioned to build a one-of-a-kind dining room table that would double as a piece of art when not in-use - perfect for a small apartment. My desire to create, and willingness to learn, is infinite. In my spare time, I create projects from left-over and used materials; using my creativity to build something out of things that would have been trashed. My skills are wide-ranging, and my passion to build and provide clients with a quality product will never waiver.
EMPLOYMENT
Senior Field Surpervisor, Project Manager, Estimator, Installer, ACSM, New Milford, N.J., 2007 - 2019, acreativestorefront.com
Collaborated with CEO on the design, planning, budgeting, and installation of all projects.
Managed a team of ten glaziers ranging from foreman to assistant glazier.
Researched and applied new techniques and products to remain competitive in the industry.
Developed recommendations for everyday operating costs and management.
Scheduled and preserved the maintenance of company vehicles and tools.
Directly involved with the hiring and training of all new applicants.
Position required strong mathematical comprehension, communication and problem solving skills.
Project Manager, Journeyman Glazier, Apprentice Glazier, AAA Metal & Glass, Paterson, N.J., 2001 - 2007, aaametalandglassinc.com
Education
CDM Institute, Wayne, N.J., AutoCAD Design, 2011
William Paterson University, Wayne, N.J., Communications, 1997 - 2000
Cresskill Jr./Sr. High School, Cresskill, N.J., Graduated June 1997, GPA: 3.7
SKILLS
Hand cut single thick - three quarter inch flat glass and mirror
Hand polish glass and mirror to machine finish
Ability to caulk almost any opening to a perfect finish
Measure, order, fabricate, and install: residential windows, table tops, shower doors, mirrors, commercial storefronts, curtain wall, ACM panel, balcony and stair railing