Member Spotlight: Brad Carson
The Air Barrier Association of America (ABAA) dives inside the career of Brad, Division Manager for Valley Interior Systems in Columbus, OH. 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.
Brad Carson
I have been in the construction industry since 1997. Starting in the field as a general laborer then becoming a journeyman carpenter while getting my construction management degree. I have been in estimating and project management since 2007.
I was fortunate to have joined the Valley Interior Systems family in January of 2011 as a project manager and have managed a range of commercial/public projects from small renovations to a 10 story hospital addition.
In April of 2014 I started working into a new role as the Division Manager of Valley’s Spray Polyurethane Foam division. As that division grew we began to focus on other aspects of the building envelope, such as air barriers, continuous insulation systems, and are now expanding into exterior claddings.
I enjoy working with construction managers and designers to help build an energy efficient building that meets their aesthetic and cost goals.
Name: Brad Carson
Title: Division Manager
Firm: Valley Interior Systems
City: Columbus, OH
What was the path to your career — how and why did you pursue your profession?
A: Started working summers as a laborer during high school. After high school pursued a construction management degree and carpenter’s journeyman certificate. Eventually moved from the field into the office doing estimating and project management. After a few years at Valley, I was asked to manage our spray foam division. We focused primarily on interior foam applications at first but eventually started to focus on the complete building envelope system.
Is there anything that you believe everyone in this industry should be working towards?
A: Understanding the building science that applies to your market and how the different products on the market can best meet your projects needs.
What role have peers, mentors, or advisors played in your career?
A: I am blessed to be surrounded by some of the most experienced people in the industry who have supported me throughout our company’s growth in building envelope systems.
What led you to become an ABAA member?
A: Our company was ABAA certified before I came on board. We continue our partnership with ABAA as it helps distinguish us as a qualified contractor.
Are you involved in any ABAA committees? Do you have any ABAA certifications?
A: No.
How long have you been in the industry?
A: 23 years.
What major changes have you seen?
A: Moving insulation from the stud cavity to the exterior side of the wall has been a major change throughout my career.
What traits or skills do you think are necessary to be able to succeed in your industry?
A: Attention to detail and willingness to continuously learn from others.
Do you have any advice for anyone starting out in your field?
A: Study all the different products that are a part of your area of expertise. Understand the pros and cons of each.
What do you think the industry will look like in five or ten years’ time?
A: Panelizing exterior walls seems to be something the industry is moving towards. I see that becoming a huge part of exterior envelope construction.