How long have you been in this industry?
I have been in the business since 1997, but have been exposed to it for most of my life as it's my father's business. I thought I would come work for him part-time when my daughter was born—that didn't last very long and I was here full-time!

Did you have another career before this one?
Yes. Upon graduation from college I worked in the computer and telecommunication business for about 15 years.

What about this industry appealed to you?
This being my father's business, it was always in my life and I started doing clerical work for about 10 years. My father is a firm believer that all parts of the job are to be experienced—no nepotism here! I liked the thought of working with clients to make their dreams a reality in their homes. It is an interesting and ever-changing business and since it involves fire in someone's home, I am very careful with products and making sure we would have it in our own home safely and not just to sell.

What did you find most challenging as you worked your way up in the industry?
The fireplace and barbecue shops have been traditionally all male. Working through and partnering with my distributors and manufacturer reps has been challenging and very rewarding at the same time. Very quickly you can realize who is going to partner with you and who is not.

Who has been your biggest inspiration?
I would say my father, who has been in the industry for 50 years and has been quite successful. It's been challenging at times but I wouldn't trade it for anything! A close second would be my sister, who started her own business.

What is the most rewarding thing about what you do?
I would say helping people plan their fireplace or barbecue project. Discussing what their wants and needs are and seeing how happy they are with the end result.

What are the most important habits for business success?
I would say organization and honesty. Organization to stay on top of jobs and honesty so the customer's expectations and ideas are met because sometimes what is seen on TV is not necessarily reality!

What is something you can't live without?
My dogs and my family ... and my breaks to Disney!

How do you unwind after a stressful day?
Go home and relax with my family and dogs.

Gas Works Inc.
Malvern, Pa.
(610) 296-3557
FireBBQ.com

Published (and copyrighted) in House & Home, Volume 23, Issue 8 (June 2023).
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