Meet Jay Schoneman, Director of Architectural Services at Interplan LLC.

What is your favorite time to get things done?

Absolutely in the morning. I love getting up early.

What is the soundtrack that plays in the background of your office?

It would be all different types of music. Usually more upbeat. No specific soundtrack. It’s a wide variety of music. I like most types of music depending on the mood. More often something upbeat.

Name the band you cannot take off your playlist.

Chris Stapleton

What does a typical workday look like?

Up at 4 a.m. to catch up on any emails or items remaining from the previous day. A little break to get my son up and off to school by 7 a.m. To the office by 7:30 a.m. The rest of the day varies greatly.

It can be meeting with team members to work through situations, discussing staffing needs, working through project challenges, reviewing drawings, training staff members on all aspects of the business, reviewing financials, coordinating HR items with our HR team in Orlando, the list goes on. I really enjoy working with all of our team members.

What is the craziest thing that has ever happened to you on a job site?

It might be that a GC ordered the wrong beam and it was supposed to have a bend in it so instead of having a new one fabricated by the steel manufacturer they tried to bend it using a forklift. Hard to believe, but it did not work well.

What are you binge watching right now?

I haven’t binge watched shows in a long time. I prefer watching sports when I find the time.

What has this experience taught you?

It’s definitely a lot of work but I enjoyed talking through all of the design ideas and logistics with my teammates to settle on what we hoped to be the best options for a fantastic office that would be enjoyed by all of our employees.

Favorite comfort food?

Sushi and Tacos (Not at the same time)

Best advice you ever received?

I have been given a lot of good advice over the years but one that sticks out recently is the 1% rule. The 1% rule promotes open-mindedness and continuous improvement among colleagues. By considering even a 1% truth in feedback or differing opinions, we can foster better communication and collaboration. More explanation on the 1% rule can be found here: Understanding the 1% Rule.

Biggest influence in your life?

My family and friends

What trait do you most admire?

Integrity

What advice would you give your younger self?

Spend time learning about emotional intelligence. It can help you in all aspects of your life.

<p>The post Jay Schoneman, Director of Interplan’s Chicago Office, on Building More Than Spaces first appeared on CCR-Mag.com.</p>

What’s the most cherished item in your office?

Honestly, my Keurig. Aside from that, I have a motivational calendar that has great quotes and affirmations for each day.

What’s your favorite time to get things done?

I find that if I start off strong in the morning, I have more energy throughout my day. However, I am a night owl, and my best ideas always come to me at night.

What’s the soundtrack that plays in the background of your office?

There is no specific soundtrack, but I do play a lot of rock and country.

Name the band you cannot take off your playlist.

Red Hot Chili Peppers

What does a typical workday look like?

I will typically start off by responding to any unanswered emails, then move my way to follow-ups on projects, then begin some prospecting and reach outs, attend my scheduled meetings, and look at next Marketing efforts.

Lately, I have been working on re-structuring a sales process for our team, developing a marketing plan for 2025, and researching new conferences and industry networking groups for StoreCrafters to attend and become involved in.

What are you binge watching right now?

“Yellowstone.”

What’s the coolest thing you have done recently?

Planned a wedding.

What has this experience taught you?

Planning a wedding has taught me that I’m realy happy I didn’t pick that industry to work in.

When you look at where you are, is there anything you would have done differently?

To be honest, nothing. I am extremely grateful for all experiences that have come my way, positive and negative. Without them, I wouldn’t be who I am today or where I am today. Everything happens for a reason and it’s important to just go with it. It will all make sense eventually.

Favorite comfort food?

Anything Italian.

Best advice you ever received?

Always be your genuine and authentic self. The ones who matter will stick around and the ones who don’t were never for you.

Biggest influence in your life?

My 12 year old son. He has pushed me every day to be a better person, student, worker and mother. I owe so much of who I am to him.

What trait do you most admire?

Accountability.

What advice would you give your younger self?

Find something you love to do and stick with it, success will follow. Also, do what makes you happy, don’t worry if it doesn’t live up to others’ expectations of you—they aren’t living your life.

<p>The post Catching up with… StoreCrafters’ Katelyn Jones first appeared on CCR-Mag.com.</p>

The Senior Account Executive for Lotus United dishes on what a typical day looks like, the craziest thing that happened on the job and her favorite comfort food.

What’s the most cherished item in your office?

When I landed my first job in the industry, my mom gave me a business card holder. I have held onto it for many years and each time I place my cards here, I reflect on all the love and support she has given me throughout my lifetime.

What’s your favorite time to get things done?

Mornings are my favorite time of day, after my first cup of coffee of course, with my special creamer. I find I’m at my most productive during this time.

What’s the soundtrack that plays in the background of your office?

“Dirty Dancing”… because nobody puts baby in the corner.

Name the band you cannot take off your playlist.

I have been a fanatic for Don Henley since I was 15… have to go with The Eagles on this one.

What does a typical workday look like?

A typical day for me involves a mix of client meetings, follow-ups, and strategizing. I start early, reviewing priorities and preparing for calls & presentations. Throughout the day, I focus on nurturing relationships, whether it’s through phone calls, emails or in-person meetings. My goal is always to ensure my clients feel supported 24/7. I dedicate time to problem-solving, tracking progress and managing timelines for my client’s projects.

What’s the craziest thing that has ever happened to you on a job site?

Maybe not “crazy,” but certainly scary. I am not a huge fan of elevators, but I was heading to the jobsite and needed to take the parking structure elevator to get to the third floor. Yep. Got stuck. I was alone, and I didn’t want to date myself but the phone was attached to the car.

Fortunately, there was an alarm—and the security team had me out in about 40 minutes. It was a very scary memory, and I was quite shaken up. But I made it to the site meeting and the client was grateful I made it, after what I had experienced. They appreciated my dedication to see the day through.

What are you binge watching right now?

After so many deep dramas, I am bringing the Lethal Weapon series. Loved the movies back in the day, and this is a fresh version. Fun to watch, great writing.

What’s  the coolest thing you have done recently?

Getting married. It’s been just a few months, and what a gift! Our wedding weekend was such a blast—having our favorite people witness our vows and dedication to each other. Making the transition of bi-coastal living—embracing all the joys of California winters & New England summers. This is a beautiful love story I could never have imagined.

What has this experience taught you?

That true love is possible no matter where you are in your life. Don’t give up seeking what you truly deserve and always trust God’s timing.

If you knew what was going to happen, what would you have done differently?

I would have slowed down sooner and really taken in the moments. Life goes by so quickly, and then as you stand in the place you are today and say to yourself, “Where did the time go?” I am really embracing every moment at this stage in life. It took me a long time to get here, and I stressed needlessly. Embrace the now, it’s where you were always meant to be.

Favorite comfort food?

Chicken & Dumplins—there is no better recipe than my grandmothers, My mom makes the best and she always knew just when to make it for me.

Best advice you ever received?

It’s not always about you—everyone is going through their own battles in life and taking things personally is never productive. There is a fit for everyone and for everyone the right fit. Don’t get hung up on the little things, as they are little things. In the end, life is short… and it’s alright to buy the shoes.

Biggest influence in your life?

My favorite village—my husband, my Mom and my three incredible grown children. My husband for his support and loyalty in choosing us every day, my Mom for instilling in me my work ethic & survival skills from being a single mother of four daughters, and my three adult children, who remind me that unconditional love is the most beautiful gift of all. I am grateful for these abundant blessings.

What trait do you most admire?

Transparency – be honest, putting aside hidden agendas and pride. It’s amazing how much deeper all our relationships can be… both personal and business. Be honest and forthright.

What advice would you give your younger self?

Don’t let yourself be controlled by these three things—people, money & negative past experiences. The sooner you learn this, the sooner you will find peace. Trust yourself and your intuition—no one knows you better.

P.S. Be good to your body and get plenty of sleep.

<p>The post Get to know… Lotus United’s Tricia Mayer first appeared on CCR-Mag.com.</p>

What’s the most cherished item in your office?

Canon R5 camera and Canon lenses.

What’s your favorite time to get things done?

Really depends on the day and what the plans are for that day. It might be anytime during the day. Usually it is 8 a.m. to noon.

What’s the soundtrack that plays in the background of your office?

Sorry, but I find music, news and radio all distracting.

Name the band you cannot take off your playlist.

Jamestown Revival, Florence + The Machine, Kid Rock, Jason Isbell, Iris DeMent.

What does a typical workday look like?

I usually get up between 5 a.m. and 5:30 a.m. to work out. Cardio, free weights, kettle bells. I spend my days either on appointments on Teams or traveling to meet face-to-face with customers, traveling to project sites, reaching out to new customers or new people at existing clients, and setting up new clients.

What’s the craziest thing that has ever happened to you on a job site?

One early morning during an overnight remodel at an inner city store we were breaking down racking that had been up for years. It was dusty and dirty. The racking was heavy. The team in that aisle was a bunch of big, beefy men ripping the displays and racking apart. Kind of guys you want on your side when things go bad. Really tough guys.

Someone pulled the bottom shelf off one bay. Instantly, those men dropped their tools and all ran away screaming and yelling in high voices. Behind them bouncing along were a couple of large possums that had moved in under that racking and jumped out of their nest when the display was removed.

Everyone thought they were giant city rats chasing those guys right out the side door of the building.

What are you binge watching right now?

“Clarkson’s Farm” and “Mindhunter.”

What’s the coolest thing you have done recently?

Snorkel with manta rays in Fiji. Safari in the Masai Mara in Kenya.

What has this experience taught you?

That I should have started traveling to Africa when I was young and gone back year after year.

Favorite comfort food?

Ice cream

Best advice you ever received?

Listen. Listen by paying attention and not interrupting. Entire books and chapters of books are written about listening in meetings and personal life instead of talking.

Biggest influence in your life?

Immediate family: my wife, daughter, granddaughter and son-in-law.

What trait do you most admire?

Those folks that do what they say they will do, and communicate progress, good news or bad news.

What advice would you give your younger self?

Treat others better. Laugh more. Start getting in good physical shape earlier. Spend more time with family knowing that the project and job will still be there if you miss a meeting.

<p>The post Catching up with… FCP’s Tim Hill first appeared on CCR-Mag.com.</p>

What’s the most cherished item in your office?

My notebooks. I usually write to flush out ideas. Revisiting my first notebook on Linarc, I see an ambitious vision for a comprehensive, integrated construction management platform and I’m proud of the significant progress we’ve made toward realizing it.

What’s your favorite time to get things done?

I’m a morning person, but working with a global team at Linarc means late hours. I’ve adjusted to maintain my energy and focus throughout the day.

What’s the soundtrack that plays in the background of your office?

The music I listen to depends on my mood. My work music is usually upbeat pop or classical.

Name the band you cannot take off your playlist.

It changes. Now I listen to Coldplay, Aretha, Imagine Dragons and Spotify DJ picks.

What does a typical workday look like?

As CEO of a global team, no day is typical. I approach my day fluidly, focusing on customers and sales in the morning, and product and technology later in the day.

What’s the craziest thing that has ever happened to you on a job site?

While researching the industry, I would stop at random construction sites. Site superintendents were often friendly, especially if I brought Krispy Kreme, allowing me to ask questions and learn a lot.

What are you binge-watching right now?

I prefer short series, mainly mystery and crime. Harlan Coban’s stories are short and entertaining.

What’s the coolest thing you have done recently?

Skydiving over Napa Valley

What did this experience teach you?

Taking risks in my career comes naturally to me, but skydiving over Napa Valley was a different challenge. This experience helped me overcome some of my physical fears and embrace challenges outside my comfort zone.

Favorite comfort food?

Hagan Daz Vanilla Milk Chocolate Almond Ice Cream Bar

Best advice you ever received?

Ideas aren’t unique, execution is. It’s not about having a great idea but about how well you bring it to life.

Biggest influence in your life?

My parents

What trait do you most admire?

Empathy and kindness.

What advice would you give your younger self?

Go out more.

<p>The post Catching up with … Linarc CEO Shanthi Rajan first appeared on CCR-Mag.com.</p>

What’s the most cherished item in your office?

My diploma from The University of Georgia. Go Dawgs!

What’s your favorite time to get things done?

I’m always ready to strike a deal. I come full of optimism in the morning and try to keep that energy flowing all day long.

What’s the soundtrack that plays in the background of your office?

More of the indie rock vibe, but definitely some cool jazz, chill beats and classic rock.

Name the band you cannot take off your playlist.

Toss up between Radiohead and My Morning Jacket

What does a typical workday look like?

I’m up at 5 a.m. to start my morning routine, highlighted by 30 minutes of book reading. I spend my days either on appointments with clients or setting them up.

My job in business development is to tell our story and I’m constantly thinking about ways to do this, one on one appointments, social media, client events. I love what I do.

What’s the craziest thing that has ever happened to you on a job site?

Earlier in my career, I was managing a project that required us to demo a three-story building in downtown Atlanta to make way for a new building we were contracted for. The demo building was a concrete and brick structure that sat right on the property line of an adjacent commercial bank property.

Careful inspection and selective demo allowed our heavy demo contractor to understand how it was built and to create a strategy to bring it down. It was about a four-day process, and I couldn’t believe the precision used to make the building fall directly onto our property and not a single brick onto the adjacent property.

It was amazing to watch and a lot of relief when it was over.

What are you binge watching right now?

“Better Call Saul.” Yes, I am late to this one I know, but TV watching is not my favorite jam. Reading books is underrated.

What’s the coolest thing you have done recently?

I have been running endurance events for over 10 years. This past January, I finished my 6th marathon with a personal best time. Shoutout to “Classic City Marathon,” Athens, Georgia.

What has this experience taught you?

Training for endurance events teaches you so much about yourself. But this year taught me that you can always find another little tweak, another way to get better. There is no question that that applies to all aspects of my life, and I look with eyes open for those areas of growth.

Favorite comfort food?

My protein smoothie bowl: Blend one frozen banana, a handful of blueberries, a handful of walnuts, 1/2 avocado, five pitted dates, one scoop of protein powder, 1/2 cup of almond milk, and a sprinkle of chia seeds. It may sound crazy, but this tastes like eating cake batter to me. I love it.

Best advice you ever received?

“Until it’s done, it’s not done.” I don’t know if I was told it, but I definitely use it; in construction and everything else.

Biggest influence in your life?

My Dad. In all the ways.

What trait do you most admire?

Do what you say you’re going to do. It may not always be the easy thing to do, but that’s where the value lies.

What advice would you give your younger self?

Live intentionally. Life moves really fast and things can often turn out great without a lot of planning. However, when you choose to live intentionally, you see the vision, create the path and know that the decisions you make are leading you toward your goals.

<p>The post Our conversation with… Scott Contracting’s Johnny Wilkins first appeared on CCR-Mag.com.</p>

What’s the most cherished item in your office?

My phones. I don’t go anywhere without both of them.

What’s your favorite time to get things done?

Between 5 a.m.-7 a.m. or between 4 p.m.-6 p.m.

What’s the soundtrack that plays in the background of your office?

Calming, aromatherapy music.

Name the band you cannot take off your playlist.

Kevin Gates.

What does a typical workday look like?

I wake up at 5 a.m., and head to the gym and workout until 6:30 am. Then I go to production or run errands before I start sales or hop on a call.

What’s the craziest thing that has ever happened to you on a job site?

The first building we operated in was haunted.

What are you binge watching right now?

I don’t watch TV.

What’s the coolest thing you have done since the pandemic hit?

Start a juice company.

What has this experience taught you?

Juicing is a healthy alternative for people searching for cures to things like lack of energy, diseases, and more.

If you could change anything, what would you do differently?

I would not have hired my friends. It’s best not to blend personal life with business life.

Favorite comfort food?

Scotcheroos.

Best advice you ever received?

You can’t make a carpenter into a plumber, meaning you cannot make someone they’re not.

Biggest influence in your life?

Kim Kardashian

What trait do you most admire?

Her ability to accomplish so much in one day and own many businesses while still being a mom.

What advice would you give your younger self?

Go with your gut. I always knew I should’ve gone to business school, but my grandma wanted me to be a nurse, so medical school it was. Now, every day I wish I would’ve gone to business school.

<p>The post Catching up with… Youth Juice’s Jessica Scott first appeared on CCR-Mag.com.</p>

What’s the most cherished item in your office?

My phone charger. I am on it so much in my day that without my desk pad with a built-in charger, I would be lost.

What’s your favorite time to get things done?

I am a morning person! I make my bed and drink my favorite “get up and go” juice and go to my home office and get started. It’s a great way to be successful.

What’s the soundtrack that plays in the background of your office?

Best of ’70s music, soothing but energetic. You might even hear some Jack Johnson or James Taylor.

Name the band you cannot take off your playlist.

It’s super hard to pick just one: The Bangles, KC and the Sunshine Band, Chris Stapleton, to name a few

What does a typical workday look like?

I have my “to-do” list from the previous day that I tackle and continually add to my next day as the day moves on. You can find me on the phone, emails, and Linked In most of the time—and sadly, skip right thru lunch. Many times I look up at the clock and it’s 3 p.m.

What’s the craziest thing that has ever happened to you on a job site?

A store manager asked for a locksmith for a door that couldn’t be opened from the outside, but could from the inside. When I asked her if there was a bar across that door, she said, “Yes. How did you know?” There was a teaching moment about detex alarm doors.

What are you binge watching right now?

“Suits.” I know it has been out for a while, but it’s really fun and escape worthy.

What have the last few years taught you?

Patience, importance of communication and empathy. Someone is always going through something bigger than the job.

Favorite comfort food?

Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups. Seriously.

Best advice you ever received?

A gentleman told me one time when I told him, “Have a good day.” He said, “That’s the only kind to have.” I have carried that with me and have my kids reiterate it when they get out of the car to school. Not to have a good day, but a “great” one.

Biggest influence in your life?

Jesus. It’s the question, “What would Jesus do?” He holds my hand everyday.

What trait do you most admire?

Empathy, vulnerability and integrity. Putting yourself in others’ shoes is so crucial in emotional intelligence. Opening up to others builds connection and trust—and doing the right thing when no one is looking keeps you honest.

What advice would you give your younger self?

I would tell her, “You will be OK. Everything works out. You will have a great husband, amazing kiddos and a career met with the best in the business. God will lead you where you need to be; just trust the process.”

<p>The post Catching up with… Apollo General Construction’s Teresa Pitts first appeared on CCR-Mag.com.</p>

What’s the most cherished item in your office?

The wall of colorful tile samples.

What’s your favorite time to get things done?

Between 8 a.m.– 10:30 a.m.

What’s the soundtrack that plays in the background of your office?

Coffee Shop Essentials—really good behind the scenes music.

Name the band you cannot take off your playlist.

Billy Joel

What does a typical workday look like?

Heading into a brightly lit office, collaborative work sessions in our conference room, phone calls, offsite meetings, evening inbox scheduled for sends the next morning and on hustle days—strength training.

What’s the craziest thing that has ever happened to you on a job site?

Being challenged I would not meet an installation deadline (rightly so, I used to install all of our tiles one by one before we had mesh). We now sheet mount 80% of our tile. I worked overnight to prove to the GC that my scope of work would not hold up the construction schedule. As a result, we have since innovated with mesh mounted tile patterns to create jobsite efficiency with our tile patterns.

What are you binge watching right now?

So Help Me Todd, Season 1.

What’s the coolest thing you have done since the pandemic hit?

Reestablished my work as a mosaic artist with Mercedes Austin Art, and built the sister brand Mosaic Candy Shop alongside leading Mercury Mosaics being a steadily performing company.

What has this experience taught you?

As a creative, you can both embrace the business and the artistry side of your work. You don’t have to be one or the other.

Favorite comfort food?

Red Grapes & Truffle Potato Chips.

Best advice you ever received?

“Find something you’re passionate about and stay tremendously interested in it.” — Julia Child

Biggest influence in your life?

My husband. He has taught me that it’s okay to be me and that it’s important to take care of myself. In the early years of Mercury Mosaics, I slept in our shipping department two nights a week just to “keep the train in motion.” I was an emotional wreck. Although I thought I was “hacking the matrix and saving time,” I was really wasting time, making irrational decisions and damaging my well-being.

Today, with self-care, I’m a much more effective leader and as we’ve all learned in the last few years, personal well-being is more important than ever.

What trait do you most admire?

Willingness to learn. I respect people who can see a vision and not be afraid to get out there and build toward it, learning along the way, communicating, collaborating, failing and continuing until they have reached the vision.

What advice would you give your younger self?

Don’t try to get everyone’s approval. It’ll never happen. If you stay true to yourself, your sense of who you are is key. Dignity is worth far more than outside sources and fuels the peace of mind you’ve been seeking. You’ll eventually surround yourself with like-hearted people and things work out better than you were even anticipating.

Trust in yourself. Be kind. Do the most good. Keep coloring on walls and use tiles instead of markers.

<p>The post Catching up with… Mercury Mosaics’ Mercedes Austin first appeared on CCR-Mag.com.</p>

What’s the most cherished item in your office?

Two photos of my daughters.

What’s your favorite time to get things done?

Early morning, I love the quiet.

What’s the soundtrack that plays in the background of your office?

Air hammers, coil lines, team chatter, laughter and side of crackling bacon from the kitchen chef.

Name the band you cannot take off your playlist.

Rod Stewart

What does a typical workday look like?

Head to the gym at 4:30 a.m., change at the office and get ready for the day by 6:30. Greeting people as they come into the office, meetings and check ins. If I am lucky, a walk about the shop to check in with the team, and if I am really fortunate, a trip out to a job site to see the work in progress.

What’s the craziest thing that has ever happened to you on a job site?

Losing my hard hat down a shaft on the 19th floor, and hearing it hit the sidewalls as it fell to the basement, then trying to figure out how not to get in trouble for not having my hard hat on as I made my way to the job trailer. Not really crazy, but embarrassing for a woman who was out of place to begin with.

What are you binge watching right now?

“Ted Lasso.”

What has this experience taught you?

If we are referring to COVID, don’t take things for granted, and live without regret, no woulda’s or coulda’s

If you knew what was going to happen over these past couple of years, what would you have done differently?

Our IT and remote work options were not too far off. We were deemed essential workers so we didn’t shut down.

Favorite comfort food?

Popcorn

Best advice you ever received?

You can always find the time to do the things you really want to do.

Biggest influence in your life?

Two mentors in the Sheet Metal Industry, Bob Blake and Pete Fluetsch.

What trait do you most admire?

Follow through. Do what you say you’re going to do. One of our core company values, 100% say-do ratio.

What advice would you give your younger self?

Don’t be afraid. Jump into being uncomfortable, it gets easier.

<p>The post Catching up with… SMACNA’s Carol Duncan first appeared on CCR-Mag.com.</p>

What’s the most cherished item in your office?

A picture of my Dad. He was the greatest man on earth in my eyes. He passed away in November 2019.

What’s your favorite time to get things done?

Early in the morning and at 3 p.m. I don’t like having a to-do list. All things pressing are done before day’s end.

What’s the soundtrack that plays in the background of your office?

Anything 70’s.

Name the band you cannot take off your playlist.

Journey.

What does a typical workday look like?

Respond/follow up on emails sent out prior week. Follow up with the bid coordinator on current bids in house and with prospects on bid responses. Check on local conferences and events. Schedule coffee/lunch/call with three new prospects. Follow up on prospect list from conferences attended. Review periodicals/social media/local planning board, and any other news to search new and upcoming developments. Lastly, my daily BD calls with Jerry to collaborate.

What’s the craziest thing that has ever happened to you on a job site?

With my previous company, I jumped in a track hoe with stilettos on, dug a hole and drove it off the site.

What are you binge watching right now?

I just finished “Pain Hustlers.” It’s mind boggling to learn that those who are meant to cure us were creating illness and killing.

What was the coolest and most meaningful thing you have done since the pandemic?

I went to a women’s religious retreat.

What has this experience taught you?

Be mindful and careful of others’ hearts. We don’t know what’s going on in their lives. Be kind every chance you get. I spent two days with women from all over the world in positions of high power and some who lived in cars with their children. Upon meeting them, they were any other women I would meet in my life every day. By the end of my retreat, they were so much more to me. They looked different. They filled my heart and their stories remain with me.

If you knew what was going to happen, what would you have done differently?

Spend more time with my Dad and my older relatives who were alive.

Favorite comfort food?

Polenta with red beans and sauce (the poor”man’s” lasagna) in Napoli.

Best advice you ever received?

When it comes to business, it was from my husband. He has been in his business for more than 35 years and has had customers for 35-plus years. If mistakes happen—and they will—own them. No excuses. The difference is in how you handle the recovery/repair.

Biggest influence in your life?

My Dad. I’m a first generation Italian American. Like most immigrants, my parents did all they could to give my siblings and me a better life. Education was No. 1. He wanted to make sure our vocabulary was stronger and better than his broken English. He felt his lack of the language prevented him from having the confidence to have all the advantages to further his American dream. My father believed if you are educated, healthy, strong and keep close family ties, you’ll always have the advantage and be rich in many ways.

What trait do you most admire?

Honesty, integrity and confidence. These three come together. I feel that in business development, I have to be honest in what I’m selling to our client and follow through with what we’re promising and contracted to do. This gives me every bit of confidence to go out and represent Gerard Construction Corp. wherever I go.

What advice would you give your younger self?

You’re better than you think. Accept nothing but the best and you’ll never be disappointed.

I was proud to be first generation educated and was equally proud to be contributing to our family as a young working mom. I was frowned upon by some of my old school family members for not staying home to raise my children. It was my husband who encouraged me and gave me the confidence to rise above the noise, and to be and do whatever is best for our family.

What are you doing these days that is fun?

Travel as often as possible and spend as much time with my husband, Pino. We are now celebrating 30 years of marriage. We have two amazing children, Maria, 25, and Pino 27. Just remember to take lots of pictures so that you can look back and smile again and again. Try to enjoy sunrises and sunsets more than ever.

<p>The post Catching up with Gerard Construction’s Rosanna Bio first appeared on CCR-Mag.com.</p>

What is the most cherished item in your office?

Picture of my girls.

What is your favorite time to get things done?

Early in the morning

What is the soundtrack that plays in the background of your office?

Classic rock.

Name the band you cannot take off your playlist.

Journey

What does a typical workday look like?

Up at 5:30 a.m. and sitting at my desk by 7 a.m. till I quit at 5 p.m. If out in the field, I am out the door by 5:30 a.m. to meet with a sales rep to do a ride along.

What’s the craziest thing that has ever happened to you on a job site?

Meeting a superintendent I knew as a child and both of us remembering at the same time.

What are you binge watching right now?

“The Crown”

What’s the coolest thing you have done since the pandemic hit?

We bought a house at the beach and a boat. I’m learning to fish, too. Also, I started a new job at Empower Rental Group.

What has this experience taught you?

Patience

If you knew what was going to happen, what would you have done differently?

I wouldn’t have hosted the Falcons’ Super Bowl party at my home in Colorado just to see my team blow it.

Favorite comfort food?

Sushi

Best advice you ever received?

Listen to hear, not to talk.

Biggest influence in your life?

My Grandmother

What trait do you most admire?

Loyalty

What advice would you give your younger self?

Always be kind and never give up

What’s the first thing you are going to do when you are able to get back to some sense of normalcy?

Take a vacation

<p>The post Catching up with… Empower Rental Group’s Theresa Ragan first appeared on CCR-Mag.com.</p>

What’s the most cherished item in your office?

I have a small chalkboard that belonged to my mother who passed away when I was young. In her handwriting, it says, “Thought for the day,” “To love someone is to allow them to grow.” I have four adult children in their 20s. Her statement probably meant for me and my teenage years turned into advice for me during my children’s teenage and young adult growing years.

What’s your favorite time to get things done?

I prefer later in the day when things quiet down.

What’s the soundtrack that plays in the background of your office?

I have a home office so silence or spa music. My guilty pleasure is listening to “Judge Judy” in the background, as it’s not a show you have to watch.

Name the band you cannot take off your playlist.

Boston, Styx, Queen. I love old-school rock.

What does a typical workday look like?

In the morning I problem-solve. The afternoons are touching base and connecting. Late afternoon is for relaxing and focusing on paperwork when the phone calls have died down.

What’s the craziest thing that has ever happened to you on a job site?

I came to do a punch walk in a store in Florida that was complete and filled with fixtures. We were getting our final sign-off from the building inspector that day. I had scheduled for clothes to come in the next day.

I had already gone through three different superintendents and the 3,000 square foot space barely made it to this point of completion. The building inspector walked in, looked up and said, “I’m not signing you off because you never had the ceiling coated with a mono-coat.” Then he then turned and walked out.

What are you binge-watching right now?

The final season of “Yellowstone.” I also love K-Dramas.

What’s the coolest thing you have done since the pandemic hit?

My husband and I went to Napa California with some friends and went on the Napa Valley wine train. We toured the vineyards and wined and dined.

What has this experience taught you?

Laughter with friends and family is worth more than gold.

If you knew what was going to happen, what would you have done differently?

Remodeled my house.

Favorite comfort food?

Cold pizza with pepperoni, mushroom and onion.

Best advice you ever received?

I was working at Disneyland and had just got promoted into management, I had spent years wearing blue in the maintenance division. An electrician I knew came up to me and said, “I have worked here many years and have seen many people get promoted, it changes people, don’t ever forget where you came from.” I never look down on anyone; everyone is important, no matter what role they hold.

Biggest influence in your life?

My husband. He always supports me, he took on my role of taking care of my children and his child while I traveled to all my stores across the country for years. He is strong, funny, and chill. When my anxiety rises, he is the first to tell me to focus on the big picture which helps me refocus. He is my rock.

What trait do you most admire?

Honesty. If there are issues on the job site I don’t expect the GC to try to solve everything I have enough experience to help by approving more money or adding time, but if they tell me everything is fine when it’s not, it does not go over well with me.

What advice would you give your younger self?

Never jump to conclusions. Always hear both sides of the story. I have always been very perceptive and can tell when contractors or subcontractors are not telling the truth but it’s important to know both sides before jumping to conclusions.

What’s the first thing you are going to do when you are able to get back to some sense of normalcy?

At this point, I feel things are back to normal. I spend every weekend riding my bike to the beach with my husband and my two dogs, Kira and Murphy.

<p>The post Sitting down with… MF Project Management’s Michele Fleming first appeared on CCR-Mag.com.</p>

What’s the most cherished item in your office?

A coaster given to me by a great mentor and leader with the quote “life begins at the end of your comfort zone.” This also happens to be the best advice anyone has ever given me! Leadership and resilience are built in discomfort.

What’s your favorite time to get things done?

Mid-morning, once the first two cups of coffee have settled in.

What’s the soundtrack that plays in the background of your office?

My own deep thoughts and keyboard strikes, often married with the white noise machines that the kids didn’t turn off before they left for school.

Name the band you cannot take off your playlist.

Too hard to pick one! Some of my favorites are Bastille, Tonic, Vampire Weekend and the Lumineers. I’ll also go ahead and admit publicly to being a Swiftie.

What does a typical workday look like?

Wake up at 5:30 to work out and walk my kids to school, then jump into calls with franchisees after some fresh Tim Horton’s K-cups. My team works cross-functionally with many other functions in the organization—like Operations and Market Planning—and we meet often to align on upcoming deals in their areas. My most favorite days, however, are the ones spent out in the field seeing our franchisee’s restaurants or looking at prospective new sites.

What are you binge watching right now?

Having two little kids doesn’t afford the luxury of true “binge” watching, but we’re managing to keep up with “Only Murders in the Building” when Gabby’s “Dollhouse” or “Bluey” is not on. I am anxiously awaiting another season of “Emily in Paris” and “The Crown.”

What’s the coolest thing you have done since the pandemic hit?

Started traveling with my kids again! We’ve been able to visit friends and family, and enjoyed some wonderful vacations.

What has this experience taught you?

To soak in all the uniqueness of my children and lean into family time over anything. We were able to experience our son in a completely different way when we were all home together 24/7, and I’ll cherish that time forever!

If you knew what was going to happen, what would you have done differently?

Bought some real estate at a 2.5% interest rate.

Favorite comfort food.

Jeni’s Darkest Chocolate ice cream and my mother-in-law’s homemade mac and cheese. I also have little to no willpower around fresh-baked chocolate chip cookies.

Biggest influence in your life?

I’ve had two managers/mentors who have shaped me in different ways. One who taught me about coaching, leadership and seeing the promise in a young professional; and the other who taught me to believe in myself by trusting me in elevated roles. I hope that through my own career I’m able to give those gifts to others.

What trait do you most admire?

Authenticity. Being yourself around friends and colleagues alike builds more trust and companionship than any other “version” of you ever could.

What advice would you give your younger self?

Oh, there’s so much. Learn how to ask the right questions, then do a lot of listening to the answers. Have patience, humility and hunger. Live abroad for a year. Invest in real estate. Make mistakes, own them and learn from them. Tell the people you love you love them—often, and in person.

<p>The post Catching up with… Firehouse Subs’ Jen Abernathy first appeared on CCR-Mag.com.</p>

What’s the most cherished item in your office?

A photo of my late Father. I worked with him for so many years and looking at his photo keeps me inspired. He bravely fought cancer for 13 years after being told he’d be lucky if he had five years left. I remind myself what he went through when I face challenges and it gives me perspective. A truly wonderful man and father.

What’s your favorite time to get things done?

Early morning for sure. I like the undisturbed time before the phone starts ringing and the emails show up.

What’s the soundtrack that plays in the background of your office?

More often than not it’s an audio book in the background for me.

Name the band you cannot take off your playlist.

Eagles. They are very nostalgic for me.

What does a typical workday look like?

It really varies each day. Some days I’m on my computer for what seems like an endless number of hours, some days I’m on job sites measuring signs and I’ve become far too familiar with the inside of Southwest airplanes.

What’s the craziest thing that has ever happened to you on a job site?

Not being able to find the job site. A barricade company mistakenly covered the entire storefront with construction graphics. The problem was the store was not under construction.

What are you binge watching right now?

“Yellowstone.” I had to buy every season.

What’s the coolest thing you have done since the pandemic hit?

Targa California, four Days of 100-plus exotic cars racing up and down the state. Spun out on a mountain road and did not launch off the cliff. Thank you, Andy.

What has this experience taught you?

I learned how fragile life can be. It was really an education in how many unique ways each of our lives can be affected differently by the same thing.

If you knew what was going to happen, what would you have done differently?

Other than getting out to see as much family as possible I’m not sure I would have done anything differently. I did everything I could to keep myself and those I came in contact with as safe as possible.

I was the person on the plane with the clear face shield and mask on at the same time. I also would have done public service announcements letting people know you do not need to wear a mask when you are driving alone in your own car. Just saying.

Favorite comfort food.

The topping on pizza—not the crust

Best advice you ever received?

“It’s just a walk around the park.” This was directed at my golf game but it really applies to all of life. Basically seeing things for what they are, not what our mind makes them out to be.

Biggest influence in your life?

Definitely my children. They cause us to look very closely at ourselves since they often tend to mirror what we do. It can be very eye opening.

What trait do you most admire?

The ability to truly listen.

What advice would you give your younger self?

Lighten up.

What is the first thing you are going to do when you are able to get back to some sense of normalcy?

It never occurred to me that being able to go out to a restaurant and sit without a mask on would be such a big deal to me. It seems so insignificant but when it’s something you could have never conceived of it’s impactful.

<p>The post Catching up with… Ad Art Sign Co.’s Wendy Sabine first appeared on CCR-Mag.com.</p>

What’s the most cherished item in your office?

During COVID, I removed most of the personal items I had, i.e., photos, notes, etc., that would have normally taken this spot. But since being back in the office environment regularly over the past couple of years, I’ve grown fond of a few ferns that I work to keep alive from week to week. And I enjoy my Rubik’s cube.

What’s your favorite time to get things done?

Depends on what types of things I’m trying to get done. If you’re talking contracts/proposals/management type stuff, I prefer the mornings. If you’re talking architecture and design, I prefer later in the evenings/night. If you’re talking a round of golf, I like to be the first on the course.

What’s the soundtrack that plays in the background of your office?

“Highway to the Danger Zone” was the first song that came to mind—high energy with a motivational spirit.

Name the band you cannot take off your playlist.

Fleetwood Mac. There’s a timelessness to their music that always finds its way into my rotation. But like a lot of people, I enjoy a wide range of music.

What does a typical workday look like?

One of the things I have enjoyed the most over the years in practicing architecture is that there really is not a typical day. Of course, I have planned items to tackle each day along with meetings, but every day there is something unexpected that pops up, which I enjoy.

What’s the craziest thing that has ever happened on a jobsite?

Everyone has heard about New York City and the size of their rats, but you don’t know what they mean until you see them for yourself. During the due diligence phase for a client, we visited a vacant retail space on Lexington Avenue. When we were walking down into the cellar space, we heard some rumblings.

Initially, we thought maybe someone homeless had taken up residence there. Flip on the lights and a clan of Chihuahua-sized rats all started racing to squeeze their way through a crack in the floor slab. Maybe not that crazy, but it was definitely unexpected.

What are you binge watching right now?

Just wrapped up the second season of “The Bear.”

What’s the coolest thing you’ve done since the pandemic hit?

Built my own home office desk along with a few other pieces of furniture.

What has this experience taught you?

There is incredible value in seeing and understanding things from someone else’s perspective. “What’s in it for the other guy” is a known piece of mind, established by our company’s founder, Bill Little, that still rings true today with me.

If you knew what was going to happen, what would you have done differently?

Wow. I have no idea where to even begin with this one. There are so many things, but I wouldn’t give up anything if I had to lose what I have today.

Favorite comfort food.

Without question, mac & cheese.

Best advice you ever received?

Leave it better than you found it.

Biggest influence in your life?

My mom, no doubt.

What trait do you most admire?

Empathy.

What advice would you give your younger self?

Another tough one. Try your hardest to take your time and enjoy the moment because time is going to fly.

What’s the first thing you are going to do when you are able to get back to some sense of normalcy?

I think we’re there already so one of the first things I did was get back into the office. With what we do, day in and day out, there’s no communication tool or computer program that can replace sporadic, natural collaboration that an office environment promotes.

<p>The post Catching up with… Little’s Michael Magee first appeared on CCR-Mag.com.</p>

What’s the most cherished item in your office?

A photo that my beautiful wife and I took years ago when she was still my beautiful girlfriend.

What’s your favorite time to get things done?

I am both a morning person and a night owl.

What’s the soundtrack that plays in the background of your office?

A mix of R&B, country and pop hits.

Name the band you cannot take off your playlist.

Boyz II Men.

What does a typical workday look like?

Early morning meetings, calls and meetings throughout the day, and then a debrief in the late afternoon.

What’s the craziest thing that has ever happened to you on a job site?

I have had a client make a very lucrative investment deal—for me. It was very kind of him and I made sure to give him more money than he expected of me.

What are you binge watching right now?

“Black Mirror.”

What’s the coolest thing you have done since the pandemic hit?

Got engaged in Aruba, married in Palm Desert, and honeymooned in Dubai, Bali, Singapore and Japan.

What has this experience taught you?

Anything is possible, even amid the craziest time in the world, all you need is love.

If you knew what was going to happen, what would you have done differently?

If I knew the pandemic was going to hit, I would have invested well and made a crazy amount of money.

Favorite comfort food.

BBQ.

Best advice you ever received?

“Sam, quit expecting everyone else to be you.”

Biggest influence in your life?

Adam Robinson from RPG, Patrick Wakeman from CALCAP Advisors, Bryan Grissinger from Frontera Real Estate

What trait do you most admire?

Honesty, loyalty and ambition

What advice would you give your younger self?

Stop whatever you are doing right now and spend all of your time, effort and energy investing in commercial real estate.

What’s the first thing you are going to do when you are able to get back to some sense of normalcy?

We love to travel. So when I reach my financial goals I will resume traveling around the world.

Connect with Sam…

LinkedIN
Personal Instagram
Business Instagram
Personal Facebook
Facebook Group

<p>The post Sitting down with… The Pivotal Investment’s Samuel White first appeared on CCR-Mag.com.</p>

What is the most cherished item in your office?

Most cherished are the photos of my three daughters and my parents. I have a pretty cool aviation themed office designed by my wife, which includes a model of my plane and a plaque commemorating my initial pilot license from 2008.

What is your favorite time to get things done?

Depends: Early morning with coffee at home is my time to wrap my head around the day and get my inbox cleaned up. Lunch meetings are most effective for me to get updates on our projects and team. Afternoons are when I do the heavy lifting of business stuff.

What is the soundtrack that plays in the background of your office?

Mostly classical new age piano for a calming background that doesn’t distract me. If I’m in a great mood and want to listen, I choose hits from 1976. If I’m in a bad mood I play heavy metal.

Name the band you cannot take off your playlist.

Linkin Park.

What does a typical workday look like?

When I am in town, I usually work on emails and workflow approvals at home until 8 a.m.-9 a.m., then I head to the office via Starbucks for an Iced Americano. If traveling, I’m usually flying myself and a VP or PM to a site, client or conference, so early morning is flight planning. Wheels up by 9 a.m., Uber by 10:30 a.m. and ETA by 11. Meetings etc., dinner, hotel and repeat.

What is the craziest thing that has ever happened to you on a job site?

There are many. One I can share is that a long time ago I had to leave on Easter night to travel to Philly to fire our foreman and get a job we were doing back on track. The following weekend I decided to correct the wavy ceiling grid myself, but forgot to turn off the industrial ceiling paddle fans. I stood up in the wrong spot. The emergency room nurse actually laughed out loud when I told her what happened..

What are you binge watching right now?

“Ted Lasso.”

What is the coolest thing you have done since the pandemic hit?

Bought land and built our lake house.

What has this experience taught you?

It reminded me that some things are totally out of your control and the importance of focusing only on what you can control (serenity prayer basically).

If you knew what was going to happen, what would you have done differently?

Diversified our market sectors to essential businesses.

Favorite comfort food.

Eggs Benedict

Best advice you ever received?

My Dad and older brother always said, “The proof is in the pudding,” meaning talk is cheap and results speak for themselves.

Biggest influence in your life?

Tough to pick just one, but I’d say my mother who taught me so much and led by example. When she passed away last year, her current count of children (nine), grand and great grandchildren was at 80.

What trait do you most admire?

Resilience

What advice would you give your younger self?

Golf lessons.

What is the first thing you are going to do when you are able to get back to some sense of normalcy?

I feel like we’re basically back, but I was most anxious to stabilize the business which we did. Personally, I wanted to get back to working on our dream home and get back to traveling.

<p>The post Sitting down with Rectenwald Brothers’ Art Rectenwald first appeared on CCR-Mag.com.</p>

What’s the most cherished item in your office?

It’s actually a bunch of things. I buy small trinkets or items from every place I vacation or travel to, they remind me why I do this and give me incentive to do it again.

What’s your favorite time to get things done?

I’m a morning person. Usually awake by 4 a.m., yeah, I know, sleep has never been a friend of mine.

What’s the soundtrack that plays in the background of your office?

Be careful. You can catch me listening to Phantom of the Opera one day and deadmau5 the next—I enjoy all music but you can usually tell how my day is going by what I am currently listening to. Probably not a good time to visit if I am listening to Five Finger Death Punch.

Name the band you cannot take off your playlist.

Coldplay, Chris Isaac, Barry White, Aretha Franklin—Don’t make me choose.

What does a typical workday look like?

We start at 7 a.m. at Warwick and I have a one hour commute each way. We work nationally so I am calling the east coast on the way in, and the west coast on the way out. There is no “typical” day and that appeals to my ADHD. I seem to thrive in chaos, or create my own if things are too quiet.

What’s the craziest thing that has ever happened to you on a job site?

Nothing surprises me anymore in construction. I don’t have a craziest moment—and hope I never do.

What are you binge watching right now?

Just finished watching Night Agent, I love a good fast paced mystery….

What’s the coolest thing you have done since the pandemic hit?

Rode Sturgis last year. Rode through the west Texas desert this last month. Finally made it to the Big Bend and West Texas area on my motorcycle. Definitely “food for my soul.”

What has this experience taught you?

That I need to get out on my bike more. But I knew that already, just gotta win that lottery to finance my addiction.

If you knew what was going to happen, what would you have done differently?

There was a lot of uncertainty when it came to construction. We were only away from the office for a couple of weeks and didn’t really have much of a shut down, so probably wouldn’t have done anything differently.

Favorite comfort food.

A good ole fashioned hamburger! Stack it with as much bacon and cheese as you can find, top it with a fried egg and you have a winner. Oh, some garlic fries on the side won’t go to waste either.

Best advice you ever received?

Listen more than you speak.

Biggest influence in your life?

That’s a tough one. I have too many people and experiences to mention.

What trait do you most admire?

A big comfortable smile! It just makes everything better.

What advice would you give your younger self?

Travel more. Stop and smell the roses. Buy as much Bitcoin as you can.

<p>The post Catching up with Warwick Construction’s Walt Watzinger first appeared on CCR-Mag.com.</p>

What’s the most cherished item in your office?

My husband custom made several wall art inspirations for my office. My favorite is “Faith over Fear.”

What’s your favorite time to get things done?

Mornings before the day gets hijacked

What’s the soundtrack that plays in the background of your office?

I don’t listen to music while I am working

Name the band you cannot take off your playlist.

My musical taste varies, however, my favorites are Yacht Rock, Van Halen and So Fine radio

What does a typical workday look like?

Is there such a thing? Coffee is a good start and then I jump into reviewing emails. The day can vary from project review, client conversations, team conversations, researching and maybe some networking

What’s the craziest thing that has ever happened to you on a job site?

I was not on the jobsite when this happened, however, in a previous life I had a pressure wash technician surface clean a large parking lot “Josh was here.”

When I got the phone call from the property manager the next morning I was so embarrassed. The property was for sale and they had an owner walk that afternoon. I had to get our technicians back on site immediately to remediate the chaos.

What are you binge watching right now?

Some of my favorites are “The Kominsky Method” and “Longmire.” Most recently, I watched “Tulsa King” and am waiting to see if they will launch another season.

What’s the coolest thing you have done since the pandemic hit?

I went zip lining.

What has this experience taught you?

The pandemic has taught me a lot of things. I previously worked from home before that was a thing, and in 2020 I started working with Harrison Contracting and now come to an office.

I love the collaboration and human connection. When I worked from home, I never knew when to turn work off and ironically I am calmer now.

If you knew what was going to happen, what would you have done differently?

Stocked up on toilet paper. Just kidding. I would have purchased some vacation real estate for personal pleasure and investment

Favorite comfort food.

I prefer chips over sweets and love Mexican food

Best advice you ever received?

I had a boss tell me in my early ’20s, “If you come to me with a problem, also come to me with a solution.” I have carried that philosophy with me through my life

Biggest influence in your life?

I would have to say my husband. He has pushed me to take risks and supported me the last 30-plus years

What trait do you most admire?

Integrity is a very important trait I admire and a trait that is near to my heart. I have told my kids for years, “Your character is what you do when nobody is watching.”

What advice would you give your younger self?

Work/life balance. Enjoy what makes you happy. Work tasks will be there tomorrow, stop and smell the roses. Find a hobby.

What’s the first thing you are going to do when you are able to get back to some sense of normalcy?

Dream big, be positive, be kind

<p>The post Catching up with … Harrison Contracting’s Sharon Milton first appeared on CCR-Mag.com.</p>