What is the biggest misconception about the industry?
The biggest misconception about the industry is that there is a lack of creativity and commitment from the younger generation as we attempt to fill the personnel pipeline with quality individuals. The leaders in our industry need to be more diligent and purposeful in addressing the shortage of future leaders.
What is your biggest current challenge at work?
In my industry, the biggest challenge is perception - by which I mean the prevailing attitude often is "Oh, it's just scaffolding." or perhaps, "Yeah, I just need a construction hoist that works". This attitude minimizes the relevance and misdirects the focus that should be invested in these scopes of work. Vertical access is a 'primary' critical path issue and is also a primary safety concern on any job site. Without the proper focus/attention, it can be extremely counter-productive to coming in on schedule and within budget. Helping clients to fully understand this reality is crucial.
What keeps you up at night?
My adrenaline about the next client or the next project I want to put my focus on - sometimes keeps my mind going well into the night. There are so many opportunities out here that have great potential to involve my expertise. I have to pick my battles and temper my excitement about such opportunities.
What project is your company most proud of?
What I am most proud of is not a specific project but more importantly the fact that I have nurtured a number of long-term relationships in my previous business life that have produced some significant clients as Principal at Vertical Access Consulting. I have a first-class list of clients.
How does your ABC membership help your company?
ABC has always been a primary catalyst for business development and marketing in my career. It has been a root component of all of my success within the DMV and beyond - quite frankly. Wherever I go regionally, I seek out that relevant ABC Chapter because ABC is the best advocate for Networking, Business Development, and Marketing. I encourage all my clients to become active members of their local ABC Chapters.
What did you want to be when you grew up?
I wanted to eventually be in politics and must admit that desire to do so was based on a calling I felt at a very young age. God- seemingly had other plans.
Tell us something no one in the industry knows about you.
I was an extremely shy and bashful young person.
What do you look forward to each day?
I look forward to contributing in a positive way every day - be it from a professional standpoint or something personal with a family member or friend.
What are you like to work for?
I am demanding but only to the degree of what I expect of myself. But be warned - I set the bar high for myself.
What is your favorite metro Washington hangout/restaurant?
Truth be told - I'm a Baltimore kid - born & raised. D.C.? I'll have to get back to you about that.
Who would you trade places with for a day?
Trump - for a number of reasons.
What is your favorite movie or TV show?
Favorite movie - "The Wizard of Oz". Favorite TV show - "The Wire".
What do you do for fun?
I am a huge football fan - especially NFL and love the Ravens. But for leisure, I love fishing and I love golf.
What business/career advice do you wish you had when you began?
Stick and stay. Don't get discouraged by a few losses.
What book are you currently reading?
"A New Earth" by Ekhart Tolle.
What was your first job?
First 'civilian' job was Garage Operations Manager for a national trucking company.