Member Spotlight: Matthew Giambrone
Matt was born into the construction industry as his father successfully ran a masonry company in Cleveland Ohio for 35 years. Matt became an apprentice bricklayer in 2001 and successfully completed training and became a journeyman. In 2009 Matt studied blueprint reading and estimates by hand. In 2010 Matt became a Level 3 Certified ABAA installer in fluid applied, self adhered, and spray foam. With the passing of his father in 2013, Matt started at OCP Contractors, starting up their division 7 group. In 2016 Matt became the Chairman of the Contractors, a few years later he became a Board of Director for the ABAA, and in 2021 Matt also became a member of the Executive Committee.
When did you earn your Certified Air Barrier Specialist (CABS) certification from the Air Barrier Association of America (ABAA)?
A: March of 2023
What inspired you to pursue the CABS program with ABAA?
A: My father always encouraged me to take any advantage in any type of certifications when it came to the ABAA. This was the highest certification the ABAA had to offer to show my knowledge in the building envelope industry.
Name: Matthew Giambrone
Title: Estimator/Project Manager
Company: OCP Contractors, Inc
City: Cleveland, OH
ABAA member for 14 years
How has the CABS certification impacted your career or professional development?
A. Since becoming a CABS, many professionals and consultants seek for my opinion and expertise when it comes to challenging details and coordination.
What are some of the challenges you’ve encountered in air barrier field and how as your certification helped you address them?
A. Transitions between dissimilar materials and substrates always proves to be difficult. Understanding how each system works and the importance of continuity has proven to be extremely helpful.
What advice would you give to someone considering pursuing the CABS certification with ABAA?
A. Study hard, take small sections at a time. Utilize the ABAA website and the education portion for additional learning material.
In your opinion, what are the most crucial aspects of effective air barrier system design and installation?
A. Working together as a team to understand a continuous envelope. All trades need to understand the importance, and their requirements as well as the envelope installer.
Any additional insights about your certification experience or working in the air barrier industry?
A. The CABS certification is viewed as a highly accredited value, and respected by many professionals in the industry.