How did you get started in this industry?

I moved to New York in 1998 and started working for a high-end firm as a painter. I worked there for a couple years, and moved to carpentry since it was something I always liked. From there, I went to tiling and installing. So I developed a full view of the work through those roles and in 2012, I started my own business. We initially specialized in tiling and stone installation, but after a few years we expanded to carpentry, painting, and everything else needed for a full gut renovation.

Why did you start with tiling and stone?

My family and I are from the mountains, so stone is something that has always been a part of my life. In that region, we have a strong heritage of building houses from stone and mud blocks, so I feel like I have something in me that draws me to the stone. It’s natural, and I love the look and feel of it. When I’m able to, I’d love to go to places like Italy and Egypt to see the stone there, to learn more about how different places have processed stone and used it throughout their history.

What was it like starting your own business?

I had acted as a foreman and project manager in the past, and had a lot of experience in the field, but at first it was a challenge to learn the business side of things. So I took seminars to fill in those gaps and made a business plan in 2015, which pushed me to grow the business. Those seminars introduced me to people with different ways of thinking, and different ambitions— people who were willing to do their best to achieve those goals. That was really formative. Still, even though I’m working on all the business-side of things, I still love working with my hands, and will find time to do it on a lot of my projects.

What’s it like working with your team?

It’s great watching my guys achieve their goals and constantly improve. At first, they may not be confident in themselves, but eventually they become like family. We’ll have coffee or dinner together as a team every week, and we’ll have new workers introduce themselves during our weekly get togethers. We really want to emphasize that we need to work together as a team, and no one should be left behind. Everyone on the team understands that.

How’d you get in touch with Block and how’s it been?

We were doing some tiling for someone on 5th Avenue, and he mentioned Block. We were looking to step up, and Block felt like a great way for us to grow. We submitted all the documents we needed to apply, went through the vetting process, and were accepted. It’s a great fit for us and I’m really happy with the experience I’ve had with Block. It’s made things easier for us.

What is your life like outside of work? What are your hobbies or favorite things to do in your area?

Our lives outside of work aren’t that different from others… My kids are in school, so when we can, we have family time.