It’s time to get to know the Project Managers here at Chuckanut Builders! First up, Justin. He’s been around Chuckanut for about a decade – first as a carpenter, then Site Lead, now Project Manager. When I ask Justin what has kept him around for the long haul, he quickly answers: “It’s the clients. Nobody who comes to us wants cookie-cutter, and building something a little unique with care for real people really matters. There’s no factory line here.”
Who taught you the most about running a project?
Justin’s very first contractor boss was on a job refitting a ship. He learned quickly that there is no such thing as a “20-foot detail” on a boat. Everything is exact, and everything must hold up to harsh conditions and lots of wear. The other lesson that really stuck with him is that quality is non-negotiable. A job built with poor quality materials or shortcuts feels flat-out dishonest. “Our client’s money is real, and the work better be too,” he says with conviction.
What’s a value you won’t compromise on, even under pressure? Quality. Justin won’t do low-quality work. It is attention to detail, or it’s not right. His confessed shortcoming is sometimes spending a little too much energy to get something perfect. Homes should be built to last, whether that’s using more durable materials or designing for health & longevity. Building for real life, for the actual impact of nature is just smart- rather than building for perfect conditions. These never exist. Justin keeps the long-view at the forefront and is always looking for ways to solve a problem before it happens.
What’s a project you’re still proud of?
A split-level home with no bathroom on the main floor. His client couldn’t get up and down the stairs fast enough anymore, so the team added on quickly and efficiently which freed up enough of her budget for the pottery shed and kiln she’d really been dreaming about. Necessary work that let her stay in her own home a little longer. Justin really likes building spaces that actually fit the people living in them.
The nicest thing a client’s ever said to you? A simple “thank you” from a client named Susan, for meeting her family’s needs. It’s amazing how far those two words can go. He’s a helper, so this one really made an impact.
If Justin could add one dream job-site perk, what would it be? A taco truck of course. I know where we’ll all be having lunch! And, no one around here will be surprised to hear that if he could pick the mascot for Chuckanut Builders, it would be a unicorn. If you’re lucky, you can spot his truck around town, unicorn bumper sticker and all.
Throughout his tenure at Chuckanut Builders, Justin is known for his care for his teammates-always noticing the details, first to celebrate a milestone, and checking in on how folks are really doing. He brings integrity and (dark) humor, keeping everyone in the office and the job site on their toes, ensuring we all do work that we’re proud of and have a good time doing it.