VisionAries Archives

30 04, 2019

VisionARIES – Q&A with Skip Browder (Spotlight)

marshall2023-09-01T20:19:10+00:00

Formal title at Aries: Vice President of Estimating, Acting General Manager of Aries’ factory in Troy, TX

Your job duties & responsibilities: Chief estimating for Aries’ Texas and California locations. I mainly do estimating for the Department of Housing.

How long have you been at Aries? I’ve been with Aries since 2012.

Where did you work prior to Aries; was it in the same industry or something totally different? I started out working at Centurion Homes as an electrician’s helper. There, my first job was cutting holes in the wall for receptacles and switches to be placed. I eventually became the quality assurance manager for that company.

When I left there, i worked for the State of Texas’ Department of Licensing and Regulation as an inspector for the manufacturing of housing. Back then, it was called the Texas Department of Labor and Standards. I worked as state inspector for 4 years.

Then I went to work for Porta-Kamp. There I met Mike Bollero [President of Aries Buildings Systems]. We worked together there, along with Danny Harling. I was there for 10 years. I worked as a tech rep. I went to several different countries to install man camps and offshore living quarters: Oman in the Middle East, Columbia in South America, Trinidad, Nevis in the West Indies, Saipain in the South Pacific to name a few…

After working there for 10 years, I left and began working for SilverCreek homes as their Quality Assurance manager. From there, I went to work for Schult homes, who are no longer in business. They were one of the original mobile home companies that started in Elkhart, Indiana.

After working for a few different companies, I ended up at international buildings systems, where I worked as purchasing manager from 1998 to 2005, at which time the owner died. I went back to Porta-Kamp, then finally to Ameritech as Director of Estimating.

When you’re not at work, what would we find you doing? I like to read alot. Anything from fiction to suspense and mysteries. Sometimes I like to change it up and read a little fantasy, science fiction; authors like J.R. Tolkien. I love Game of Thrones. My wife didn’t read the books, but she watched the movie so we have fun talking about it.

I also love spending time with my family. I’m a big family man and all of my family are very close. I am the oldest of about 70 relatives! We love to get together and have bar-b-ques, things like that. We have a tradition of getting together the 2nd Saturday of every December. We started the tradition after my Dad passed. It was my Mom’s idea, she wanted everyone together, and we have continued it since she passed 3 years ago. At Christmas, everyone makes crafts, which we auction off. We use the money we generate from the auction to fund our family reunion every year!

Hometown? I grew up all over Texas but graduated from high school in Lorena, Tx, which is 13 miles South of Waco and 17 miles from Troy, where our [Aries] factory is.

Family, children? I have 2 kids, 5 grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, as well! I have 4 brothers and 1 sister. All of my children, grandchildren and siblings live in Texas.

My wife and I have been married for 46 years. It was definitely meant to be. We graduated high school together. We were born the same year, both on the 29th, but different months. I was born in Orange County, TX and she was born in Orange County, CA. And my grandfather used to date her grandmother! We did not know that before we got married!

What’s your favorite part about working for Aries so far? It feels like family. Even though this is an office and work, we all get along and treat each other like family. I’ve known some of these people for decades. Mike Bollero and I have worked together since the 80’s and Danny Harling has worked for me since he was 19 years old. My wife even made his wedding cake! I should be retired by now, but I’m sticking around because I love this company.

What sets Aries apart from other companies that deliver the exact same things? The family-oriented environment. We really and truly care about our customers and try to treat them like family.

If you weren’t working for Aries, what job would you probably have? I would have been a teacher. My brother was a teacher, and my wife worked in the teaching industry. I’ve always thought I would make a good teacher.

What do you think the future holds for Aries? The future of Aries is unlimited! We will continue to grow & acquire assets: we’re in the process of opening new branches as we speak. The sky’s the limit!

VisionARIES – Q&A with Skip Browder (Spotlight)marshall2023-09-01T20:19:10+00:00

9 10, 2018

VisionARIES – Q&A with Jim Benedict (Spotlight)

marshall2023-09-01T20:19:03+00:00

Your formal title at Aries

Vice President of Sales- RAM Modular Canada

Your job duties & responsibilities:

Business development, sales, operations.

How long have you been at Aries?

4 years.

Where did you work prior to Aries; was it in the same industry or something totally different?

I was introduced to the remote camp/ modular accommodation sector during my 10 years in Sales at SYSCO Foodservice. Building an extensive network and relationships in foodservice selling to camp caterers led me to a career in Modular, and ultimately with RAM Modular Canada.

When you’re not at work, what would we find you doing?

My wife (Brandee) and I spend most of our time volunteering for my daughter (Makenna) at her local gymnastic club or as “roadies” for my oldest daughter (Hailey) as she pursues her career as a country singer/songwriter. Otherwise I try to stay active playing flag football, golf or hockey when I get the chance.

Hometown?

St. Albert, Alberta

Family, children?

Married to Brandee for 17 years, 2 daughters, Makenna 14 and Hailey 16.

What would “your perfect day” consist of?

A long term lease award to start the day, followed by a round of golf and spending time with my family.

What’s your favorite part about working for Aries so far?

I appreciate the communication and expertise of the employees and senior management. As the lone Canadian employee I am continually included and supported by everyone in the organization. I also value the confidence and shared vision our senior team has in the Canadian market as we strive to increase our market share.

What sets Aries apart from other companies that deliver the exact same things?

Primarily what sets Aries apart from our competitors is how everyone in the organization performs day to day tasks with purpose, integrity and honesty. Our clients appreciate dealing with a company that is interested in sharing in their success and growing together.

What do you hope to bring to Aries in terms of leadership and company culture?

Canada has been a challenging market over the last 4 years. I hope that our existing clients continue to see the quality and commitment to our brand and to their success and that potential clients understand that they have a competitive, viable option from a company that will work relentlessly on their behalf.

If you weren’t working for Aries, what job would you probably have?

Haha, I don’t think an 18 handicap would put me on the PGA tour so I’m probably exactly where I should be!

What do you think the future holds for Aries?

I believe that the modular business in North America is poised to grow as costs to build permanent structures increase and skilled labour becomes tougher to keep. Institutional, construction and the resource sector are all growing and relying on relocatable structures more and more as a means to save on large capital expenditures and meet tough time constraints. Our business model allows Aries to take on these burdens for the client so they can focus on their core competencies.

Link with Jim Benedict or RAM Modular Canada on LinkedIn. You can also check us out on our website: rammodularcanada.com – and see why Aries is the perfect commercial design, manufacture, transportation, construction and financing partner you need to make every project a success.

VisionARIES – Q&A with Jim Benedict (Spotlight)marshall2023-09-01T20:19:03+00:00

22 05, 2018

VisionARIES – Q&A with Michael Palumbo (Spotlight)

marshall2023-09-01T20:18:58+00:00

Your formal title at Aries:

Territory Sales Manager

Your job duties & responsibilities:

Business Development for the state of California.

How long have you been at Aries?

It will be four months on May 15th.

Where did you work prior to Aries; was it in the same industry or something totally different?

I worked at Williams Scotsman for 8 years as an Account Executive cover the San Bernardino and Riverside County territory

When you’re not at work, what would we find you doing?

I would either be coaching my son’s 13U travel ball baseball team or watching my daughter perform in on her competitive cheer team.

Hometown?

I grew up in La Mirada, CA but currently reside in Fontana since 2005.

Family, children?

I am married to my wife Jennifer for 17 years and we 2 wonderful kids. Kailey is 15 and currently a sophomore in high school and Kyle who is 13 and in 8th grade.

What would “your perfect day” consist of?

Perfect Day at work is getting a signed contract for all my quotes that I have out, lol! Outside of work just spending time with my family and friends

What’s your favorite part about working for Aries so far?

I love the people here and the atmosphere in the branch. In addition, I like that management has empowered me to help get the So Cal market up and running

What sets Aries apart from other companies that deliver the exact same things?

I truly feel that some of the larger modular companies are losing touch of what customer experience is all about. I feel that we’re large enough to compete within the large modular companies but still have the mentality to take care our customers to ensure the long term relationship

What do you hope to bring to Aries in terms of leadership and company culture?

I hope to bring a hard working attitude and provide some of the good ideas and processes that I saw at my old company.

If you weren’t working for Aries, what job would you probably have?

I would be probably coaching baseball at the high school or college level

What do you think the future holds for Aries?

I think the future is bright here in the So Cal market. The ability to manufacture our own units will have a tremendous impact to gain market share in the tough California market.

Link with Michael Palumbo or Aries Buildings on LinkedIn. You can also check us out on our website: https://ariesbuildings.com – and see why Aries is the perfect commercial design, manufacture, transportation, construction and financing partner you need to make every project a success. Aries Building Systems specializes in supplying full turnkey man camps, remote work force housing and commercial modular buildings systems to a wide range of industries and applications across the US and Canada.

VisionARIES – Q&A with Michael Palumbo (Spotlight)marshall2023-09-01T20:18:58+00:00

14 01, 2018

VisionARIES – Q&A with Jason Ellis (Spotlight)

marshall2023-09-01T20:18:54+00:00

Your formal title at Aries:

Territory Manager – Midwest

Your job duties & responsibilities:

Responsible for the business development and the growth of Aries Building Systems business in our Midwest region. Job duties include new business development, prospecting new business, developing relationships with Architects-Engineers-Contractors-End Users, developing quotes and proposal’s for clients, and providing stellar customer service to our customers.

How long have you been at Aries?

8 months.

Where did you work prior to Aries; was it in the same industry or something totally different?

Prior to my employment at Aries, I spent the past 2.5 years as a workplace solutions manager in the Chicago Commercial Interiors industry, prior to that 7 years as a sales representative with Williams Scotsman, Inc.

When you’re not at work, what would we find you doing?

When not working, I enjoy spending time with my family, musky fishing, scuba diving, working on projects around the house, and educating myself on new topics.

Hometown?

My hometown, is Schaumburg, IL a suburb of Chicago. But I’d consider my second hometown, Hayward, WI, which I spent every summer from the age of 7 – 21, working at my families resort in Northern Wisconsin.

Family, children?

I love family, married to my wife of 9 years Cheryl, we have two children a 9 year old girl, Sophia, and a 3 year old boy, Brayden.

What would “your perfect day” consist of?

A perfect day for me, would start with a Linkedin coffee meeting with a networking contact to grow my network of contacts, business development, quoting new business, closing new business, a network lunch meeting, more business development, Closing more new business, and finishing with an evening networking event.

What’s your favorite part about working for Aries so far?

Our colleagues, our culture, and autonomy. We’ve the luxury of working with seasoned veterans of the modular building industry, whom have years of industry knowledge in leadership and sales roles. All of whom have a firm understanding of what it takes to succeed and provide value to our customers. As for our culture, Aries supports a healthy work life balance and values the input from its employees.

What sets Aries apart from other companies that deliver the exact same things?

Our senior leadership team, all of whom have extensive experience in the modular building industry. As well as, our ability to provide extensive solutions to our clients.

What do you hope to bring to Aries in terms of leadership and company culture?

Placing others on a path to success. Collaborating closely with individuals from all walks of life, whether there colleagues, customers, or vendors. Listening contently and providing help, expertise and knowledge to those whom seek it.

If you weren’t working for Aries, what job would you probably have?

I’d have to throw out my dream job, Commercial Deep Sea Diver!

What do you think the future holds for Aries?

The sky is the limit, its an exciting time in the modular building industry. Aries is positioned nicely to capitalize on the merger’s and acquisitions occurring throughout our industry. In addition, more Architects, Engineers, and Owners are looking toward modular as a viable alternative to tradition construction methods. I am excited to what the future holds for Aries!

Link with Jason Ellis or Aries Buildings on LinkedIn. You can also check us out on our website: https://ariesbuildings.com – and see why Aries is the perfect commercial design, manufacture, transportation, construction and financing partner you need to make every project a success. Aries Building Systems specializes in supplying full turnkey man camps, remote work force housing and commercial modular buildings systems to a wide range of industries and applications across the US and Canada.

VisionARIES – Q&A with Jason Ellis (Spotlight)marshall2023-09-01T20:18:54+00:00

3 10, 2017

VisionARIES – Q&A with Regina Lucas (Spotlight)

marshall2023-09-01T20:18:49+00:00

Roles and Responsibilities:

I am the Texas Regional Camp Manager overseeing the daily operations of Aries Workforce Housing and subcontractors in Oklahoma, West Texas, and South Texas.

How did you come to meet the folks at Aries?

It is actually a funny story. I was a Massage Therapist and managing my own rental properties in Hobbs, New Mexico. My daughter was the Branch Manager for the staffing agency that was contracted with Aries. The position was for running the guard shack for the Lovington Lodge location for a two week assignment. After two weeks, I was hooked and completed the contract with Aries.

How long have you been with Aries?

The two weeks assignment has turned into nearly 4 years with Aries.

Where did you work prior to joining Aries?

I am a career Flight Attendant with Southwest Airlines retiring after 17 years. I then became a business owner opening up a tanning salon and a Victoria Secrets style boutique.

When you’re not at work, what would we find you doing?

I am a big-time family person. Spending time with my family at an outdoor concert, going to the casino, or donating my time at the local animal shelter.

What would “your perfect workday” consist of?

Making connections for future business, leading a successful team, and no vacancies at any of my camp locations.

Your favorite “non-work” activity you and your father enjoy doing together.

My father is 86 and still active. I take him to his senior citizen activities and lunch. My father really enjoys his senior citizen dances and loves the attention the ladies give him. He’s a cutie!

What sets Aries apart from other companies that deliver the same thing?

The culture. Upper management really takes a personal interest in its employees. Aries is big on family and provide a great balance between work and family life. That is something you do not find with other companies.

Any local recommendations for people staying at any of the camps you oversee? Restaurants, sights?

Oklahoma’s camp is a 30 minutes from the city. Sonora has the beautiful Sonora Caverns, Odessa and Goldsmith are in the Permian Basin which is the oil field capital of Texas and Midland has the childhood home of George W. Bush.

Anything that surprised you about the workforce housing industry that you didn’t forsee when you started?

The camp life gets in your blood. The passion and the lifestyle gets in your blood.

If you weren’t in the workforce housing industry, what job would you probably be doing?

I would be running an Animal Rescue Shelter. I have a big heart for animals especially those who do not have a home.

Link with Regina Lucas or Aries Buildings on LinkedIn. You can also check us out on our website: https://ariesbuildings.com – and see why Aries is the perfect commercial design, manufacture, transportation, construction and financing partner you need to make every project a success. Aries Building Systems specializes in supplying full turnkey man camps, remote work force housing and commercial modular buildings systems to a wide range of industries and applications across the US and Canada.

VisionARIES – Q&A with Regina Lucas (Spotlight)marshall2023-09-01T20:18:49+00:00