Member Spotlight: Joe Escalante
The Air Barrier Association of America (ABAA) dives inside the career of Joe Escalante, Senior Project Manager & Estimator for CR Insulation & Firestopping Inc. in Ontario, CA. In this feature interview, learn what made him become an ABAA member, what led him on his career path, and get his perspective on the future of the air barrier industry.
Joe Escalante
Name: Joe Escalante
Title: Senior Project Manager & Estimator
Firm: CR Insulation & Firestopping Inc.
City: Ontario, CA
What was the path to your career — how and why did you pursue a profession as a Sales – Project Manager?
A: My path of career as a project manager/estimator started in the field as an installer, to journeyman, to foreman, to general foreman and to my current position.
Is there anything that you believe everyone in this industry should be working towards?
A: I believe everyone in the industry should ultimately work toward a goal of fully understanding the work that is constantly changing and
evolving.
What role have peers, mentors, or advisors played in your career?
A: My mentors/Peers have played a very significant role in my career in educating, and always being there to guide and/or help in many ways.
What led you to become an ABAA member?
A: The opportunity to further educate and become well versed in the thermal, air and vapor barrier components of the overall substrate.
Are you involved in any ABAA committees?
A: Not involved in the committee but am certified in the QAP program.
How long have you been in the industry?
A: I have been in this industry for 20+ years.
What major changes have you seen?
A: The changes that I have seen through out the years has been the evolution of the requirements as it pertains to the thermal envelope.
What traits or skills do you think are necessary to be able to succeed in your industry?
A: Having the meticulousness to do your job 100% to the best of you ability.
Do you have any advice for anyone starting out in your field?
A: Learn as much as you can, every opportunity you get because it will only make you stronger.
How much demand do you think there is for people in your profession?
A: I believe there is a large demand in this industry of skilled trained workers, because there will always be progress, and there will always be construction.
What do you think the industry will look like in five or ten years’ time?
A: In five years, there will be a lot of changes in the industry and if we don’t continue to educate our youth in the evolution of construction in ten years there is going to be a large demand for educated and skilled labor/management.