#Duckumentary - Matt Clement

What did you do before your time at EDA?

I’ve worked in the masonry industry since graduating from the Williamson School of Mechanical Trades in 2003. Ranging from installation and construction of new unit masonry (brick/block/stone) to historic masonry restoration, I have been privileged to work with a couple of great union masonry outfits… and I’ve experienced some fantastic projects and people. I have been able to work my way up from apprentice, to mechanic, to a job foreman with experience in estimating and project management. I feel extremely fortunate and blessed to have learned to love such a wonderful trade.

What brought you to the construction industry?

I have always been a “hands on” high-energy person who likes working outside… so I don’t really know! It was supposed to be something to fall back on, but after learning a trade and changing my perspective from it being just a “job” to a “skilled trade/service”, masonry just got a hold on me.

Can you briefly explain what you do at EDA?

Currently I am installing masonry units, creating masonry openings, and securing/supporting existing masonry structures in a renovation project in Camden. I am overseeing, completing, and managing the masonry progression, crew, and material for the project.

What are some things that most people don't know about you?

I am not so sure, I am very “what you see is what you get” in my opinion. I wear my heart on my sleeve. I would say one thing that most people don’t know about me is that I am alcohol free. I feel that because of societal norms, someone who refrains from drinking may come as a surprise to most. Although my sobriety was brought on by a lot of my own past and the consequences of drinking, it is still a nice way to live, and I’m there.

If you weren’t in the construction industry, where would you be today?

I would be flying F- 18’s or be a jet pilot! That or a 2^nd line grinder on a minor league hockey team.

If you could work in any other trade or department here at EDA, where would you be?

I don’t think I would want to change my trade, but as far as any other department at EDA, it would either be Estimating or Marketing so I could help sell our masonry work. I feel that is in time, as I get older down the road, when the weight of the actual trade gets too heavy for the body to take. Until then, I enjoy what I am doing and the people in the field.

What is the biggest challenge you've faced in work? How did you overcome it?

Simply the lack of communication and correspondence amongst trades in the field, and lack of common courtesy or care for the other guy are the biggest challenges I’ve faced. We live in a society where it can sometimes be very cutthroat. I tend to take the opposite approach and be friendly, helpful, and even generous. It seems to get more accomplished in the long run. People will gravitate towards kindness.

What has been the best part about your experience working with EDA?

The best part about this opportunity with EDA is the excitement it has created to “work” and be part of a team with a fresh fire to succeed, a team who appreciates the work we put in. To be able to share my knowledge, experience, and skill and at the same time learn and strive for a better product for a company that appreciates you is priceless. The growth and variety of work that EDA’s Masonry Division is chasing is reassuring that there is room for advancement and growth for me as an individual.

What is your favorite EDA value, and why?

It is hard to pick one as they are all great in their own way and are a nice way to live life by… but when it is really all said and done, I would love to check-out knowing that I Smiled, Laughed, and Enjoyed my way through this precious thing called life! Plus, if you practice the core values daily and have a great attitude, that is all that is left!