What’s your favorite thing about working with your crew?
As a superintendent, I work with multiple crew members daily. This allows me to observe the different methodologies that each worker and foreman adopts for specific tasks. Once I have gathered this information, I choose what makes the most sense and simplifies work for everyone. After refining my process, I standardize those tasks across other crews so that everyone can work smarter, not harder—improving productivity while maintaining high-quality standards. So, I’d say learning from each individual and crew out there is my favorite part of the job.
If you won the lottery, what’s the first thing you would do with your winnings?
If I won the lottery, the first thing I’d do is sell all my belongings and move back to my home country, Italy, with my family and start a business there.
How do you stay updated on the latest industry trends, technologies, and safety protocols?
I regularly read journals and magazines related to our industry. When time allows, I also participate in events and conferences. Another important step for me is discussing new developments with colleagues and other peers in the field.
Outside of work, what are some of your hobbies or interests?
I have a few hobbies. One is gardening—I love big gardens and fresh organic produce and fruit. I also have chickens, which keep me busy while feeding us great eggs. But what I love most is traveling whenever possible.
What’s one thing you personally must have with you on a job site?
A tape measure and a knife. I always have those in my pocket—you never know when you’ll need to measure something due to field conditions not indicated in the drawings. And you never know when you’ll need to cut something.
Personal: Cats or dogs? And why?
I love cats because they’re independent and loving at the same time. I have two cats and one dog, but my cats are absolutely more affectionate than the dog—and, surprise surprise, they listen more!
What’s the best piece of advice you’d give an apprentice—or the best advice you received as an apprentice?
Back in Italy, when I was 18, I started working in construction as a helper. The foreman, a 65-year-old man, told me, “Don’t listen to how others tell you to do something—watch how they do it and follow that.” He meant that people don’t always share their secrets, so observe and learn. It’s not true for everyone, but it’s close to reality. I still share that advice with new apprentices.
Is there anything else about you, your family, or your home life that you would like to share?
Even though I’m a roofing superintendent, I’m actually a chef by trade. I love to cook for family and friends—and the bigger the crowd, the better.
Can you share one new thing you’ve learned on the job or a best practice that helps save you time, energy, or keeps you safer?
Since starting at EDA two months ago, I’ve already learned the EDA Way and values, and I really enjoy it. What I appreciate most—and had to learn—is how to collaborate with my team. I used to do everything myself, so it’s refreshing to be able to ask for help and advice.
How do you manage stress and maintain a positive mindset in a high-pressure environment like construction?
It took me a while to learn this, but sometimes you just need a five-minute break. Take a walk or shut out the noise and stop thinking for a moment. It really helps reset your mind.