Category: Careers in Remodeling

Field Supervisor Zach Minniear | NARI Certified Remodeler
The Cleary Company Remodel-Design-Build in Columbus Ohio is proud to announce Field Supervisor, Zach Minniear earned a Certified Remodeler (CR) accreditation from the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI).

NARI Certified Remodelers are recognized as highly experienced remodeling professionals who provide a full range of remodeling services. They possess expertise in a broad range of business management and technical skill areas, identifying them as well-rounded remodeling experts capable of managing all aspects of a remodeling project. As a whole, the NARI CR Program addresses the fundamentals of managing a full range remodeling operation:
- Sound business operations and procedures necessary for operational efficiency and increased profitability
- Navigating building codes and communicating with code officials
- Job site evaluation and identifying hidden defects and unknown conditions
- Green remodeling and building science
- Capabilities of the various trades required on the remodeling project and how to determine if the work is performed correctly
Q & A with Zach Minniear, CR – Field Supervisor

What is your role for The Cleary Company?

As the Field Supervisor, my primary responsibility is to handle any warranty issues after construction on the projects has been completed. Other responsibilities include assisting Project Managers with punch lists when needed, scheduling trainings and safety education for the Production Department, and overall help ensure we adhere to our high quality standards of craftsmanship.

Why did you decide to take the certification test?

I chose to get certified to further my knowledge and be a better asset to the company.

How did you prepare?

NARI provided an online prep course and I also did some self-study and review prior to the exam.

Why did you choose a career into remodeling?

After 12+ years in the US Navy Construction Battalion aka Navy Seabees, 5 of those years were in project management, staying in the construction field seemed like a natural transition.

How has TCC supported your growth, both personally and professionally?

George and the entire management team encourages all of us to better ourselves and in turn the company by continuing to learn and grow. The company provides all team members opportunities like certifications classes, online trainings, industry conferences and networking.

What do you believe is the hidden gem of working for TCC?

100% it’s the people!

What do you enjoy the most about working for TCC?

Beyond the team of people I work with it’s the atmosphere and culture of professionalism, support and encouragement that George models each day.

Why Do Certifications Matter?

Remodeling a home is a big decision and homeowners should be sure the remodeling professionals they hire are qualified to perform the work to the highest level of professionalism, integrity and quality.

Hiring NARI Certified Professionals assure:
- Your remodeling professional has met strict standards for remodeling expertise, project management and professional conduct.
- You are selecting an expert in the field, capable of completing your project to industry management and quality best practices.
As a trusted Remodel-Design-Build firm in Columbus, Ohio, we believe continuing education is important and the development of Our Team is a responsibility we have to our clients. From formal CEU classes administered by our industry partners to informal Lunch-n-Learns hosted by our vendors, throughout each year, our Team regularly participates in webinars and live presentations to improve our knowledge of home remodeling.

Not to mention, data suggests 80% of consumers would choose a remodeling professional who is certified over one who is not.

Looking for a Career in Home Remodeling?

We are in a skilled labor shortage in the Columbus, Ohio, area and you will find work here in the construction and building industry. At The Cleary Company, we look for motivated individuals who are willing to learn and have a positive work ethic.

At The Cleary Company our Team enjoys teaching those that choose to join us. Our culture is one of collaboration, a strong work ethic, and a desire to create the very best remodeling projects for our clients. If you want it and are willing to put in the work, the rewards are many.

Check out this online resource for more information as you consider matching your interests with a career in the construction industry. Or visit our Careers page for current open positions!
January 15, 2024
Designer Emily Perebzak | NARI UDCP

Join us in congratulating our Designer Emily Perebzak! She earned a Universal Design Certified Professional (UDCP) accreditation from the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI). Emily relocated to Columbus, in September of 2022, from Wadsworth Ohio to join our Team. She earned degrees in Interior Design & Marketing from Kent State University and has worked for a Design-Build firm in Westlake.

Because more clients are wanting to live in their homes longer, we recognize that all our projects should include principles of Universal Design. It applies to clients who desire to “age in place” but also to their extended family, caregivers and guests living or visiting with them.

Q & A with Emily Perebzak, UDCP – Designer

What is your role and responsibilities @ TCC?

As a Designer on the Development Team, my role is to work with clients to create a floor plan tailored to their family and within their budget. I also collaborate with my colleagues on each of my assigned projects through the completion of the build.

Why did you decide to take the certification test?

Personally, I enjoy learning and wanting to grow professionally in the industry. I want deeper insight when designing projects that work for people of all ages and abilities. Our clients wish to live in their homes for as long as they can. It’s crucial to create spaces that allow for people to age place.

How did you prepare?

I attended a four-week, 2 hour, class online and studied the materials provided.

Why did you choose a career in remodeling?

I love being creative and problem-solving to create designs that work for each individual client. I enjoy collaborating with the team and clients. I can create custom designs that work for the people who use the space daily. Remodeling isn’t easy but I enjoy the challenge.

How has TCC supported your growth, both personally and professionally?

By providing me with training and education from day one. They prioritize investment in people by encouraging learning and certifications. Offering opportunities to attend industry classes offered by our vendors and manufacturer reps and networking through the local NARI & NKBA chapters.

What do you believe is the hidden gem of working for TCC?

As a full-service design-build company, we can fully develop a project before constructing it. This allows for a collaborative process for working through all the options and possibilities of a project. Our clients have greater control of their budget and can decide what elements are most important to them. Taking time to work through the development process in the conceptual stage allows for a more efficient experience during construction.

What do you enjoy the most about working for TCC?

I enjoy the people here at the TCC. We all work closely together and get to bounce ideas off one another.

Universal Design – What Does It Really Mean?

Universal Design isn’t something most homeowners think about when building or remodeling a home, but it is something we discuss frequently with our clients. Aging In Place or Universal Design (both used interchangeably) is simply defined as a home designed and built to be used and accessed easily by all people no matter their age, size, or abilities. This universal approach to design and construction is all about planning and details. It considers the products, features, and space planning considerations that need to be in place for the space to function for all.

Creating a Universal Design home means that the living spaces are designed with those principles in mind from the beginning and is aesthetically beautiful. Some examples in design, planning, and adaptations that can be made are wider doorways, smooth level flooring, curb-free showers with grab bars and benches, no-step entryways, lowered countertop workspaces, elevators or stair lifts, accessible electrical outlets and switches, and kitchens that offer multi-level surfaces for people who use a wheelchair or just need to sit while preparing food.

Want to know more about what Universal Design is? Click here to read our blog post on the subject!

What is NARI Certification?

Certified professionals represent an elite group of industry experts who possess extensive technical and management skills. These skills set them apart as capable remodeling professionals. Standards and exam questions are developed by leading remodeling experts who are well-versed in technical and management best practices for the remodeling industry.

Why does our Remodel-Design-Build Team value industry certifications?

As a trusted Remodel-Design-Build firm in Columbus, Ohio, we recognize the need for continuing education for Our Team to be atop the industry. We also believe we have a responsibility to our clients to stay up on the best business and remodeling practices as well as have knowledge of new or improved products on the market. From formal CEU classes administered by our industry partners to informal Lunch-n-Learns hosted by our vendors, throughout each year, our Team regularly participates in webinars and live presentations to improve our knowledge of home remodeling.

Not to mention, data suggests 80% of consumers would choose a remodeling professional who is certified over one who is not!

January 4, 2024
Former Business Owners Choose Cleary
Many remodelers and craftspeople are working in the construction and building industries because of the satisfaction they receive from their work. While the internal sense of accomplishment at the end of a hard day’s work is not unique to our industry, the feeling of satisfaction is undeniably strong in construction. The difficulty of a hard day’s work quickly fades away in the warm glow of accomplishment. “If you do what you love, you’ll never work a day in your life,” Marc Anthony. There are countless people who are living by this apparent, self-evident truth.

The growth of the construction and building industries through the past 10 years, in Columbus Ohio alone, has seen the birth of many new companies. In reality, many of the people who own these companies own jobs in the construction industry but do not own a construction or remodeling business. Many of these businesses are not fully developed and will probably not weather an economic downturn when it arises. For more on this subject read “Do You Own Your Business or Do You Own a Job” by Aaron Enfinger, CR, COO of The Cleary Company Remodel-Design-Build in Qualified Remodeler magazine.

Pros vs Cons of Owning a Remodeling Business

Currently, seven former remodeling and design business owners now work for The Cleary Company and the number keeps growing! Our Team is blessed to have their passion and expertise and they too feel the same about having the support of a team of people with which to collaborate. We recently interviewed 3 of them to get a better understanding of why many former remodeling business owners choose our Team.
- Laura Watson, ASID, UDCP – Design Manager (2009)
- Justin Juenger, CRPM – Project Manager (2017)
- Eric Coleman – Lead Carpenter (2021)
Laura Watson, ASID, UDCP | Development & Design Manager

Justin Juenger, CRPM | Project Manager

Eric Coleman | Lead Carpenter

What was the most exciting part of owning your own business?
- Laura – Scheduling my own time.
- Justin – Being the sole provider of the clients happiness at the end of the job.
- Eric – Building something that was entirely my own.
What was the biggest struggle with owning your own business?
- Laura – Learning the financial aspects like accounting, billing, etc.
- Justin – Keeping up with the office work like invoicing, taxes, insurance, etc. while balancing my time in the field performing the work during the day.
- Eric – Wearing all the hats! I was an estimator, project manager, salesman, accountant, etc. and it was always difficult to balance those things.
Truthfully, how much did you work in an average week?
- Laura – 40-50 hours per week
- Justin – 50-60 hours per week
- Eric – Too many to count
What was the biggest factor in your decision to close your business and join TCC?
- Laura – I closed my business way before I joined TCC but my main reason was I was going through a divorce and knew I wouldn’t be able to support myself and my kids.
- Justin – I found that I could do the part of the job I loved while letting someone else take care of the parts I did not. Also helpful was the pay and benefits offered by TCC allowed me to make a comparable salary.
- Eric – I wanted to be part of a team that had my back. Additionally, I was able to do what I really enjoy in my role at TCC and I didn’t have to do the other stuff I wasn’t as good at.
In retrospect did you see yourself as someone who was self-employed, or did you own a business? Why?
- Laura – I guess I was more self-employed. I never really had the chance to create a business as I only did it for 3 years. Building a successful business takes a long time.
- Justin – I would say it was a combination of both because I had both pieces of the puzzle on my back.
- Eric – I saw myself as someone who owned a business. I employed people and was growing in all the avenues I wanted. In retrospect- my community did not want the professionalism, and quality that my company was building. So my efforts to build said company were futile.
What would you tell a self-employed craftsperson or designer who is pondering the idea of returning back to a team?
- Laura – Understand your responsibilities and learn to be accountable. It’s not just you anymore. There are other people depending on you.
- Justin – The struggles of trying to find good help that will stay by your side will be alleviated.
- Eric – With a solid team at your back you actually have less stress in your life, the same amount of creative freedom, more time to be with your families, hobbies and doing what you love outside of work.
What are your top three reasons for choosing TCC?
- Laura – I knew I could build something/grow here. It was a small company and very family oriented. I liked the challenge of doing all aspects of the design.
- Justin – Quality of life, the team we have, and the company’s commitment to quality and satisfaction.
- Eric – Culture, quality of product, opportunity for growth.
If you are in the construction business, what are you searching for? Do you want to be on your own, running a remodeling business and all that comes with it? Do you want to work with a well-known respected company and hone your craft and build your skills? Many of our Team have chosen to be part of The Cleary Company and reap the benefits of working hard, being part of our family, developing skills and being recognized for great work. We truly appreciate every single Team member that makes The Cleary Company a great place to work!

To learn more about our current openings, please visit our careers page.
September 8, 2023
Remodeling Workforce Development

Recruitment and Retention of the Remodeling Workforce

Many well-intended companies view training as a key solution to obvious learning opportunities. The Cleary Company Remodel-Design-Build in Columbus, Ohio takes this to a higher level. Our goal is to empower our Team to make decisions on their own. A training program can be a powerful medium for that process. The most successful programs include customized content, relevant case material, skill-building practices, and a final measurement of skill.

Learning is a consequence of thinking, not teaching. It happens when people reflect on and choose a training program. If the work environment does not support that behavior, a well-trained employee will not make a difference.

George Cleary and his management Team take a bold approach to provide a robust training program for their Team. By implementing training solutions through various sources, we create a better work environment, a higher skilled workforce, and most importantly a great company culture that offers a superior client experience.

Below are four key programs plus a general overview of the successes of The Cleary Company training programs. These programs have been initiated with collaboration between our internal teams, management, as well as external support.

Leadership Development

Since 2014, George has utilized the services of Peg Buehrle, Certified Business Coach and her associates with ActionCOACH Columbus for executive leadership and business development. They specialize in helping business owners craft strategies that create a better work-life balance with a unique niche serving the remodeling industry. George, his company and his employees have benefited from their coaching as evident in The Cleary Company’s tremendous growth and acquisition of exceptional talent.

While most of their programs center around our management team, helping them to look towards the positive advantages of change, we’ve also been able to collaborate on some very beneficial training for the entire Team as well as some of our Trade Partners. Some of these key training sessions include Laws of Attraction, Emotional Intelligence, and key communication education.

Chief Architect (CA)

This is the software program our Design Team uses to inspire clients. CA can also create the construction documents our Production Team uses on their jobsites. Just like a carpenter with their hammer or a painter with their brush, we must consistently practice with our tool to improve our skill set. We utilized targeted training videos, as well as a community learning approach, in our weekly meetings focused on improving our skills with this platform. One of our Team goals is to design and build amazing award-winning projects and Chief Architect is one of the tools that help us achieve this.

NARI Certifications & CEUs

The National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) is a leader in the certification of remodeling professionals. These certifications were developed to recognize highly experienced remodeling professionals, capable of planning and managing complex remodeling projects to client satisfaction and are to be renewed annually. Additionally, they offer continuing education to all industry professionals looking to gain knowledge and advance in their career.

These educational opportunities are offered throughout the year through in-person events and webinars addressing specific topics for the remodeling professional. NARI provides the environment for collaboration and connection in the remodeling industry with contractors, vendors, and skilled trade professionals. NARI’s national presence provides confidence to the consumer through its Code of Ethics which each member promises to uphold.

Workforce Development Board of Central Ohio

The WDBCO helps local businesses acquire, develop, motivate and deploy talent. As an industry leader in Columbus, Ohio, The Cleary Company Remodel-Design-Build takes pride in these opportunities to enhance the skill levels of our Team. Their Employer Advantage funded program enabled George and his management Team to provide an even more robust training program across all levels of our organization in 2021. On July 22, 2022 WDBCO presented its annual awards at Columbus State Community College. George Cleary, CR and Aaron Enfinger, CR were in attendance to receive an award for Company of the Year! An annual award presented at the WDBCO annual meeting.

Utilize Training Programs to Achieve a Highly Talented Organization

Any thorough organizational assessment will not only define the skills employees need to develop but will also reveal the conditions required to reinforce and sustain those skills once a training solution is implemented. With the training programs and other similar programs above, we have initiated our company’s ability to thrive in today’s challenging employment environment.

We know that creating raving fans starts with raving employees. We focus on both the personal well-being and the professional development of each of our team members to create an amazing family culture that creates awesome projects for our clients. That is our commitment to the Central Ohio community we love to serve!

Are you ready to work for The Cleary Company? Visit our Careers page to see all our available job openings, submit a resume, ask questions, or request more information. We look forward to connecting with you!

February 21, 2023
UDCP NARI Certification | Designer Shannon Tannehill
Join us in celebrating Design Consultants Margot Sheehan & Shannon Tannehill! They both earned Universal Design Certified Professional (UDCP) certification from the National Association of the Remodeling Industry.

Preparation for the UDCP test includes attending an 8-hour online course and reviewing the study guide materials provided by NARI. The program addresses the key concepts of Universal Design as applied to residential remodeling:
- Conducting client needs assessments
- Universal design applications used in residential remodeling
- Construction techniques used to implement universal design in a remodeling project
- Plumbing and electrical systems unique to universal design
- Differences between model building codes and ones described in the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
Q&A with Shannon

Shannon Tannehill, UDCP | Design Consultant

As Design Consultants at The Cleary Company Remodel-Design-Build in Columbus Ohio, they serve a crucial role on our Project Development Team. Their main role and responsibilities include collaborating with our clients in selecting the fixtures and finishes for their remodel, all the while keeping the client’s needs, style and budget top of mind.

Shannon Tannehill – 6+ years industry experience, 1.5 yrs @ TCC – Interior Design @ The Art Institute of Cincinnati

Why did you decide to take the Universal Design test for certification?

Shannon – To further my education and be able to spot things early on that need to be adjusted for living in place or multigenerational households.

How did you prepare for the UDCP test?

Shannon – Attending online classes and studying with flashcards.

Why did you choose a career in remodeling?

Shannon – I have a diverse background in the design world and this role incorporates all my knowledge.

How has TCC supported your growth, both personally and professionally?

Shannon – TCC has supported my growth with continuing education, job site visits and working with other team members, lots of teamwork!

What do you believe is the hidden gem of working for TCC?

Shannon – The team! we all have such unique backgrounds and knowledge that make a dream team for every project.

What do you enjoy the most about working for TCC?

Shannon – Being around other creative problem solvers and having events that cultivate our role in the community and with our vendors.

What is NARI Certification?

Passing a comprehensive 90-question examination under the supervision of an examination proctor is the last step to professionals earning a NARI Certification.

Certified professionals represent an elite group of industry experts who possess extensive technical and management skills. These skills set them apart as capable remodeling professionals. Standards and exam questions are developed by leading remodeling experts who are well-versed in technical and management best practices for the remodeling industry.

Why does our Team values industry certifications?

As a trusted Remodel-Design-Build firm in Columbus, Ohio, we believe continuing education is important and the development of our Team is a responsibility we have to our clients. From formal CEU classes administered by our industry partners to informal Lunch-n-Learns hosted by our vendors, our team regularly participates in webinars and live presentations each year to improve our knowledge of home remodeling.

Not to mention, data suggests 80% of consumers would choose a remodeling professional who is certified over one who is not.

Want to know more about what Universal Design is? Click here to read our blog post on the subject!
January 5, 2023
Project Consultant John Hamlett | NARI UDCP

John Hamlett

Join us in congratulating John! He recently earned a Universal Design Certified Professional (UDCP) accreditation from the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI). John joined our Team in 2020 with over 30 years of experience in retail and restaurant design and construction along with a B.S. in Architecture from The Ohio State University.

Because more of our clients are wanting to live in their homes longer, our Design Team, at The Cleary Company Remodel Design Build in Columbus Ohio, recognizes that all of our projects should include principles of Universal Design. This not only applies to our clients looking to “age in place” but also to their extended family, caregivers and guests living or visiting with them.

Q & A with John Hamlett, Universal Design Certified Professional – Project Consultant

Why did you decide to take the Universal Design test?

After working on a few projects where the clients were asking us to use Universal Design principles to help them age in place, I wanted to educate myself so that I could better serve these kinds of clients

How did you prepare for the UDCP test?

I took an online prep course thru nari.org and had help studying from my NARI-certified colleagues here at The Cleary Company.

What is your role and responsibilities @ TCC?

I am a Project Consultant with responsibilities to provide accurate as-built drawings, to assess constructability issues, produce construction/permit drawings and to see projects through the permitting process.

Why did you choose to pivot your career into remodeling?

After many years in retail architecture, I wanted to have a chance to work on projects that affect people at a more personal level.

How has TCC supported your growth, both personally and professionally?

The Cleary Company supports every employee to seek growth. They provide both time and finances for us to pursue continuing education, professional certifications and personal growth.

What do you believe is the hidden gem of working for TCC?

The office is very well designed and a great environment to work in.

What do you enjoy the most about working for TCC?

The quality of the people. George takes his time in the hiring process to assure that the people he brings on are the right fit.

What is NARI Certification?

Certified professionals represent an elite group of industry experts who possess extensive technical and management skills. These skills set them apart as capable remodeling professionals. Standards and exam questions are developed by leading remodeling experts who are well-versed in technical and management best practices for the remodeling industry.

Why our Team values industry certifications?

As a trusted Remodel-Design-Build firm in Columbus, Ohio, we believe continuing education is important and the development of Our Team is a responsibility we have to our clients. From formal CEU classes administered by our industry partners to informal Lunch-n-Learns hosted by our vendors, throughout each year, our Team regularly participates in webinars and live presentations to improve our knowledge of home remodeling.

Not to mention, data suggests 80% of consumers would choose a remodeling professional who is certified over one who is not.

Want to know more about what Universal Design is? Click here to read our blog post on the subject!

November 8, 2022
NARI Certification for Lead Carpenter | CLC

Certified Lead Carpenter (CLC) accreditation from the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI). Are the most knowledgeable members of our Production Team!

Certified Lead Carpenters (CLC) are recognized as expert hands-on field professionals who oversee every on-site aspect of the project, such as personnel management, subcontractor management, scheduling, safety, administration, customer satisfaction, etc. while also working on the site.

A Lead Carpenter’s motto is “Be prepared and do your best, always”. They study all of the materials available thru NARI’s website and attend local chapter study sessions to prepare themselves for the comprehensive 180-question examination.

What is NARI Certification?

NARI certified professionals are those people who possess extensive technical and management skills. This adds to their skillsets in their fields and adds a higher level of competence. Clients want the professionals they hire to perform the needed work at the highest levels. These certifications assure clients that our Team members have met strict standards and are committed to their craft.

With over 1400 certified professionals holding nearly 1800 individual designations nationwide, NARI is a leader in certification of remodeling professionals. What does the certification mean to Dan? “The certification really shows a commitment to quality both in the production and management of the project. That commitment will take me far in this field.”

A Desire to Grow and Learn

At The Cleary Company, we feel strongly that learning and growth are important. Not just for the benefit of our Team members, but as a responsibility to provide our clients with the best Remodel-Design-Build projects in Columbus Ohio. Our clients expect the best remodeling experience, with the best people working on their project. We challenge our Team to study for and receive certifications as a way to become more knowledgeable, grow within their career, and be the best in their remodeling craft. Not only do we value our employees continuing education, but also 80% of consumers would choose a remodeling professional who is certified over one who is not.

Click here for a full list of NARI certified professionals at The Cleary Company!

November 3, 2022
Project Development Career Path in Home Remodeling
Are you interested in a career in residential remodeling sales but don’t know how to get started?

The growth of the remodeling and home building industries through the past 8-10 years, in Central Ohio, has created a need for not only labor from workers who are in the skilled trades but also for sales professionals to meet with potential clients and educate them on home remodeling costs, timelines, and more.

At The Cleary Company Remodel Design Build in Columbus Ohio, we use a team approach for collaboration to create the scope and plan to meet our client’s needs. Through the process of working together, the Project Developer, Designer, Estimator, Design Consultant and Project Manager ensure the client is getting a great experience along with a project that meets their needs.

What does a Project Developer do?

The simple answer is sales! The Project Developer (PD) is the initial face of The Cleary Company. Their job is to support clients through the home remodeling process. They must continually communicate with our clients throughout all phases of their project.

Think of them as the quarterback of the client’s project. At many high-end remodeling companies, like The Cleary Company, Project Developers have design or estimating backgrounds, and some have both! Project Developer Jayde Boyd, she earned a BFA in Interior Architecture & Design from Ohio University and spent several years in bathroom and kitchen sales before joining our Team in 2019 in the Project Developer role.

Duties for a Project Developer/Salesperson vary from company to company but at The Cleary Company our PDs:
- Engage with clients throughout their project, start to finish.
- Create space plans and designs that address clients’ needs.
- Collaborate with our Design & Project Consultants on the planning of projects.
- Create budgets and scopes of work for their projects.
- Coordinate all pre-construction project meetings.
- Write & present contracts.
Meet Our Project Developers

Laura Watson, UDCP – 30+ years industry experience – 2009 Joined TCC – BA Interior Design @ University of Charleston

Jen Sommers, CR, Allied ASID – 10+ years industry experience – 2017 Joined TCC – BS Interior Design @ The Ohio State University

Katie Florjancic, UDCP – 9+ years industry experience – 2020 Joined TCC – BFA Interior Architecture & Design @ Ohio University

Emily Perebzak – 1+ years industry experience – 2022 Joined TCC – BFA Interior Architecture & Design @ Ohio University

Project Developer Q&A – Jen Sommers, CR, Allied ASID

How did you get your start in remodeling?

I owned my own design business for several years and also worked for a small remodeling company doing sales, estimating and project management. I came to TCC as a Design Coordinator and then moved into an Estimator position. In 2020 when the Home Services division was created George & Aaron gave me the opportunity to create and lead this Team.

How would you describe your role as a PD?

Project Development is collaborative process to create a plan for our Production Team to execute. I coordinate the information from my clients to my Team. I work with our Designers, Estimators, Design Consultants and Project Managers from creating the scope of work to the design to creating the budget. Our clients have one point of contact from conception to completion.

What 3 things do you try to teach clients during the development of their project?
- Setting expectations early and often.
- Schedule and pricing are not guaranteed, but we always do our best to be on time & on budget.
- Communication during development and into construction is important.
Just for Fun!

Describe your favorite TCC project.

My favorite projects are ones with big transformations and satisfied clients at the end of the project. Kitchen or basement updates or adding a bar to existing spaces.

Do you see a future for yourself as a Project Developer? Working with The Cleary Company can lead you on that path. Read our blog to learn why a career in remodeling at The Cleary Company is a top choice for industry professionals. If you are ready to begin or continue your career in the remodeling industry, visit the Careers page on our website and contact us today!
October 7, 2022
What is the Role of a Project Manager?
In residential remodeling the Project Manager (PM) is a critically important position. Once construction begins at a client’s home, the Project Manager serves as the main contact on the jobsite.

Behind the scenes the PM also supervises the financial aspects of the project. They must orchestrate the on-site personnel, Trade Partners and product deliveries needed to complete the build. A successful PM has strong organizational skills, excellent communication skills as well a good understanding of construction.

No project ever goes off without a hitch. There is an enormous amount of complexity and difficulty in most remodeling projects. It takes a person with the ability to remain flexible and a mind for strategic planning to keep up with the demands of a large-scale remodeling project. It has been said that a PM needs to be able to see the future! Someone knowing the potential problems that a project may encounter is enormously helpful as one plans out the schedule of any given project.

During the construction phase, the PM also communicates regularly with a job’s assigned Project Developer and Design Consultant who has collaborated with the client to create the design plan and scope of work for their project. In fact, our PMs are involved in the development of their projects too. They will meet and consult with the Development team during a project’s design and estimation phase. This allows the person in charge of building the project to have input on important details in regard to the scope of work and the budget.

What Does it Take to be a Project Manager?

The ideal candidate for a Project Manager position at The Cleary Company Remodel-Design-Build in Columbus, Ohio has honed their interpersonal skills and is naturally inclined to share information with the team around them.

Extensive construction knowledge is not necessarily the linchpin of success in this position. Organization, communication, and scheduling are what make a successful PM. Knowledge of the construction process is essential, but many of our Lead Carpenters hold much of the technical knowledge needed on a residential remodeling job site. That allows the Project Manager to focus on the bigger picture of moving the project through the phases of construction, keeping the project on time and on budget.

Are You Looking for a Career in Remodeling?
- Team Culture at The Cleary Company. A positive work environment with a supportive team of industry experts. Owner George Cleary creates an environment where employees are valued and their work experience is fun!
- Benefits available at The Cleary Company. Starting with a generous allotment of vacation time and a competitive compensation package.
  - Project performance bonus
  - 401K
  - Profit sharing and annual bonus
- Develop your career at The Cleary Company. A job classification structure that helps you understand how to make advancements in your career on our Team. Opportunities for internal and external continuing education through NARI and other industry affiliations.
Interested in learning more about the job opportunities in residential remodeling at The Cleary Company? Visit the Careers page on our website!
August 30, 2022
Home Remodeling Experience Matters

A look into the best certifications for remodeling industry professionals (it’s why we’re so good!). Our Production Team combined has over 300 years of construction and remodeling work experience.

Back Row – Thomas King, Kuba Bursey, Dan McCallister, Rob Lindeboom, Gavin Majikas, Gary Dilley, Don Holmes, Mike Seyfang, Luis Gomez, Matt Ames, Jamie Herbst, Tristan Ballinger, Aharon Woodruff, Zach Minniear, Dan Irwin, Ethan Howe, Tyler Mitchell
Front Row – Jon Fichtner, Chuck Osborn, Joey Davis, Joe Hamlett, Justin Juenger, Ed Bangert, Dave Elliott, Ben Ludlow

Since creating The Cleary Company in 1994, George has always surrounded himself with talented craftsman. He believes that education and safety are of the utmost importance in the remodeling industry. Hiring people who share those values and take pride in working for a company that offers continuing education is key during the recruitment process.

From formal CEU classes administered by our industry partners to informal lunch-n-learns hosted by our vendors, our Remodel-Design-Build Team regularly participates in webinars and live presentations to improve their skillset. Knowledge of new products and trends, personal growth and continuing education keep us at the top of our game.

Wouldn’t you want the doctor performing your operation to be the best of the best? Your house is no different! You can feel comfortable knowing that when you work with The Cleary Company Remodel Design Build in Columbus, Ohio, you are working alongside professionals that take pride in their work.

Why NARI?

The National Association of the Remodeling Industry is an organization of high-quality remodeling professionals. Its members are committed to integrity, high standards, professional education, ethics and market recognition. NARI is the medium for business development, a platform for advocacy and the principal source for remodeling industry intelligence.

Only full-time, professional remodeling industry professionals are eligible for certification by NARI. You can be assured that any time you hire a NARI-certified remodeling contractor, you are hiring an individual who has made a strong commitment to the professionalism of the remodeling industry. And because remodelers are not eligible for certification until they have been actively involved in the remodeling industry for at least five years, you know that NARI certified remodeling professionals have developed the experience and skills that can only be gained through extensive hands-on practice. NARI means remodeling done right!

It’s good to know that your remodeling contractor has a long-term commitment to his or her career. Click here for the full list of our Team’s certifications.

Do you value experience and continuing education? If so, contact us today to get started on your next home remodeling project. We also invite you to visit our Meet the Team page to learn more!

July 28, 2022