Why I’m Developing this Series
Many years ago I was looking for a good “training manual” so I could become more effective as a project manager. However I was not able to find one specifically for the millwork and cabinetry industry. While there are a many project management books, none are specific for the millwork industry project managers. Many are simply books for the general contractor or the college construction course material. I was looking for something more “practical,” with information that could be used on the job today.
Prior to joining my first office staff I had been a tradesman, an installer and a fine craftsman. I had learned a thing or two along the way but I was not yet an office person, let alone a project manager. When I was given my first opportunity (and my first desk) I was not given the “real” tools that were needed to be successful at the position.
Through the years, as opportunity presented itself, I moved up the proverbial ladder. I began building myself a work manual and format for my own use. I eventually shared these practices with a few others and helped to improve the overall performance of the company. Just as projects are works in progress until they are completed, a series or a course is a work in progress. Although I know this series will never be absolute, I have assembled enough information here to help you improve your skills and effectiveness as a project manager on a daily basis.
I realize a course should be a practical and useful tool for you. I have designed it to give you good information while including many practical tips. I have been an estimator, designer, sales rep, production manager, project manager, operations manager and presently work as the general manager of a large Southern California millwork company. Prior to this I have worked in a number of states gaining my cabinetry, millwork and office skills the old fashioned way – “hands on,” working for small, mid-size and large companies.
Personally I have worked on projects in California, Hawaii, Nevada, Arizona and New York with projects as unique as a sunset. Through the years I came to understand that different size companies require different methods of operation for the owner but not different methods for managing projects successfully.
The auto dealerships, Hollywood studio offices, restaurants, banks, medical centers and residential work I have completed all required different “tricks of the trade.” At the end of the day however, the one constant for profitable projects is how they are managed from the start of the process.
It is in the spirit of sharing and giving back to the industry, that I have assembled this collection of ideas and techniques to encourage you to work successfully as I have as – an employee with an owner’s attitude. I want to say thank you to all of you who helped me to develop my chops* along the way.
From my early days at Aladdin Remodelers, Inc. (Wood-Mode Designers and Installers), KBI International (especially Beverly), Mica Industries (my friend Hans), JH Bryant (Greg you were a lesson), Millcraft (the collective), Hunter Door & Mill (Mike I told you not to do that), Millcraft–Hunter Architectural Products (an education in Mergers), the gang at SMI Millwork (a great father and son duo) and Joe Sorelli a friend and colleague.
Of course I need to thank Adam, Art and especially my wife for their never-ending support and help on this project. A special thanks goes to my dad, who was a jazz musician at night and a piano doctor by day. He taught me many of the old world techniques for woodwork that he and I used on the pianos.
*chops: abilities to create and do in a slightly different form or with a slightly different meaning.
