What is the biggest misconception about the industry?
My sense is the biggest misconception about construction is that it's all dirty, back-breaking work that is your lifelong career. It's like other industries, though. There are jobs that (can be tough) are stepping stones to wonderful, lucrative and fulfilling careers. We all need to have a plan based on our desires.
What is your biggest current challenge at work?
My biggest current challenge is the shortage of motivated, talented and career-oriented personnel. This seems to be a big picture challenge for the entire design and construction industry.
What keeps you up at night?
The constant evaluations and continual improvements to our systems and processes to keep everyone safe and that lead our clients say, "CCG did a great job for us!".
What project is your company most proud of?
This is tough and I really can't single out just one. We have so many awesome assignments. The first project is always special though. We helped a couple start their first business in 2005 and they are still going strong today.
How does your ABC membership help your company?
ABC provides us fabulous programs, educational and training opportunities, networking and increased and meaningful exposure through opportunities like the Member Spotlight.
What did you want to be when you grew up?
Growing up, I wanted to be a baseball player and investor/business person.
Tell us something no one in the industry knows about you.
I like to play family chef.
What do you look forward to each day?
The morning wake up routine with my family and the interaction and collaboration with CCG's team and partners.
What are you like to work for?
I think I am fair and reasonable but expect my team to have the same rigorous committment to achieve greatness and sustain it that I do.
What is your favorite metro Washington hangout/restaurant?
Right now, the municipal park systems and driving range/golf course. My restaurant trips have been limited to work-related recently. Pre-pandemic, my wife and I liked Blue Duck Tavern.
Who would you trade places with for a day?
A nightly national news anchor. I'm pretty introverted so it's part personal challenge but also feeds into my obsession with behind the scenes prep and information gathering.
What is your favorite movie or TV show?
At the moment, Swamp People. It's a good example of the diversity in America and all that it encompasses.
What do you do for fun?
Anything sports or competitive related and/or outdoors that includes time with family and friends.
What business/career advice do you wish you had when you began?
To have a reasonable obsession with strategy. One can do well with the basic tenets for success to build a successful career and business but working a plan takes it to another level.
What book are you currently reading?
The Four Obsessions of an Extraordinary Executive.
What was your first job?
I was a facility assistant at Garnet Patterson MS through the DC Summer Youth Employment Program.