Nicholas Hopikins, historic restoration foreman at EverGreene Architecture, discusses his experience as a rising leader in the restoration business. 

Jessica Wicks, president of Ductz, shares her experience as a female executive in the restoration industry. 

Charlie Horn, president of Paul Davis of Louisville, experienced a kitchen fire that sent him to hospital and left his family outside of their home for weeks. The incident made him rethink his approach to dealing with homeowners.

Larry Cooper, executive director of the Experience, shares what to expect at this year’s event, taking place Sept. 7-9 at the Caesar’s Forum Conference Center. Cooper explains why the Experience is more than catchy name. It reflects the convention’s educational philosophy. 

Carmen Ciricillo, owner and principal instructor, joins us to share how he combines his background in construction and comedy to present training on safety, codes and other crucial matter in a lively way. Ciricillo performs at comedy clubs across the country. He also posts videos on his YouTube channel in the persona of The Construction Comic.

Paul Huszar, president of CEO of VetCor, joins us to share the story of his company. Huszar is a retired lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Army. He and David Howard, another former Army officer, founded the Tampa, Florida-based company in 2013 and started franchising it in 2020. Huszar discusses the challenges veterans face in finding work in civilian life and how the restoration business provides a unique opportunity for them.

R&R Editor Valerie King announces the call for 2022 Ladder Award nominations in this special message. She shares the importance of the award, now in its third year, as well as eligibility requirements and judging criteria. Click here to submit nominations or learn more about the 2022 Ladder Award and to submit a nomination by Monday, May 30, 2022.