What is the biggest misconception about the industry?
One of the biggest misconceptions about the drywall and painting industry is that the work is simple and requires minimal skill. Many people assume that anyone can hang drywall or paint a room without much training or expertise. However, this is far from the truth.
Proper drywall installation and painting require a high level of skill, experience, and attention to detail. Drywall installers must know how to measure, cut, and fit panels accurately, ensuring that seams are smooth, and joints are properly finished. Painters need to understand surface preparation, the correct application of different types of paint, and techniques to achieve a smooth and even finish.
Additionally, both drywall and painting work involve understanding building codes, safety regulations, and the use of specialized tools and materials. High-quality work in these fields contributes significantly to the overall aesthetics and structural integrity of a building. Therefore, the misconception that these tasks are easy and require little expertise undervalues the professionalism and skill involved in the drywall and painting industry.
What is your biggest current challenge at work?
One of the biggest current challenges in the drywall and painting industry is finding and retaining skilled labor. The industry often faces a shortage of qualified workers, which can lead to delays in project timelines and an increase in labor costs.
What keeps you up at night?
Financial Stability: Managing cash flow, covering operational expenses, and ensuring profitability are constant concerns. Unpredictable expenses, slow-paying clients, or economic downturns can all impact financial stability.
What project is your company most proud of?
Modera H Street in DC; the GC for this one is Mill Creek Residential and we managed to hang and finish the entire project in record time apart from all the amenities, corridors and common areas with so many detail-oriented spaces, metal framing, etc. It will be for a while, our biggest pride.
How does your ABC membership help your company?
Networking is essential in our industry, and having the opportunity to request resources is invaluable, especially for those starting out. Training programs are also a huge plus for us.
What did you want to be when you grew up?
A Doctor.
Tell us something no one in the industry knows about you.
I like to cook.
What do you look forward to each day?
Giving my best in every aspect while enjoying it.
What is your favorite metro Washington hangout/restaurant?
Breweries.
Who would you trade places with for a day?
Glenn Ferguson, President at Clark Builders Group.
What is your favorite movie or TV show?
Top Gun and Indiana Jones.
What do you do for fun?
Ride my Harley Davidson and cook.
What business/career advice do you wish you had when you began?
Trust no one.
What book are you currently reading?
Factfulness by Hans Rosling.
What was your first job?
Telecommunications (sales).