Project Manager Spotlight: Christopher Newton, Pioneer Cladding & Glazing Systems

NGA's Project Manager Spotlight series highlights NGA member company staff who specialize in glazing and fenestration management. NGA’s own Sara Neiswanger interviews project managers to get to know who’s who in our industry, as well as their insights on the job and working in glass.

Christopher Newton, Project Manager

Pioneer Cladding & Glazing Systems

Q&A with Christopher Newton

Christopher Newton, Pioneer Cladding & Glazing Systems

Sara Neiswanger: Tell me a bit about yourself. Where you’re located, how long you’ve been in the glass & glazing industry, how you got started...
Christopher Newton: Of course. My name is Christopher Newton, and I reside in Charles County, Maryland. I have been actively engaged in the glass/glazing industry for approximately 16 years. My journey in this field began during my high school years when I had the opportunity to participate in our school district's technology education program through CAT-South. There, I focused on welding, which sparked my initial interest in the industry.

SN: How long have you been in a ‘project management’ role and how did you find yourself in this position? Was it part of a planned career path or happen-stance?
CN: After high school, I embarked on my professional journey by working for various ornamental metal companies, which provided me with a solid foundation in the industry. I began my apprenticeship with Local 5 Ironworkers, where I gained valuable experience and steadily advanced through the ranks in the field. However, my career took a significant turn when I transitioned to a company specializing in the integration of ornamental metal with glass and glazing projects. This transition marked the pinnacle of my journey as an Ironworker with Local 5, and I steadily advanced through different roles.

One of the pivotal moments in my career occurred when I was offered the role of Superintendent in the field. This experience equipped me with valuable fieldwork and project execution skills. Subsequently, I seized the opportunity to become the Operations Manager for the ornamental division, where I had the privilege of being mentored by a highly respected industry professional.

Under his guidance, I further expanded my expertise into project management within the glass and glazing business. This mentorship enabled me to oversee projects comprehensively, managing them from inception to successful completion, all while maintaining proficiency in fieldwork. Impressively, I managed up to 10 projects concurrently during this period. After my mentor left, I was given the opportunity to join the Pioneer Cladding & Glazing team, and I joined them looking forward to increasing my project management skillset, and pursue and upper management role within the Pioneer family, as they are an industry leader and I share many of the same professional values as the company.

SN: What do you find to be one of the most challenging parts of your job currently?
CN: I have observed that one of the significant challenges facing our industry is the impact of inflation on the costs of parts and materials. This issue has far-reaching implications, particularly for project managers. When projects are bid and planned a year or even two in advance, it becomes increasingly difficult to adhere to budgetary constraints when the prices of materials experience substantial increases.

In essence, this inflationary trend creates a dilemma for project management, as it necessitates proactive strategies to mitigate cost overruns while ensuring that project quality and timelines are upheld. This complex dynamic underscores the importance of effective cost forecasting, supplier negotiations, and ongoing cost control measures to navigate the challenges presented by rising material costs.

SN: Can you think of anything that would help alleviate some of that challenge?
CN: In the context of project management, I believe there is an opportunity for us to enhance our approach to managing materials costs. To address the challenge posed by fluctuating material prices, project managers should explore the possibility of securing extended guaranteed price quotes during the project bidding phase. This proactive step can provide greater cost stability and predictability over the project's duration.

Moreover, I firmly believe in the importance of fostering collaboration across the industry. Project managers, suppliers, and other stakeholders should unite as a cohesive team to deliver exceptional end products to our clients while collectively addressing the ongoing cost increases and market demands. This spirit of collaboration can lead to win-win scenarios, where we not only meet customer expectations but also assist each other in navigating the challenges posed by the current economic landscape.

SN: What parts of being a project manager do you enjoy the most?
CN: One of the aspects I find most enjoyable about my role is the opportunity to engage with clients and colleagues during business interactions. I appreciate the thoughtful gestures, such as the occasional dinner, which may include enjoying a fine Scotch or other beverage. It's a chance to build professional relationships and network within the industry, fostering a sense of camaraderie, just like we do at Pioneer both in the Baltimore and Ohio offices.

However, my true passion lies in the process of shepherding a project from its conceptualization phase through to its finalization when a building is ready for occupancy, serving its intended purpose. This journey, from inception to completion, is particularly gratifying. Witnessing the transformation of an idea into a tangible, functional structure is both professionally rewarding and personally fulfilling.

I take pride in contributing to the realization of a client's vision and the successful execution of projects, ensuring they meet or exceed expectations. It's this aspect of my work that truly resonates with me, as it showcases the tangible impact our efforts have on the build environment and the communities we serve.

SN: What is one question you would love to pose to your fellow PMs?
CN: Ultimately, the key to successful project outcomes lies in our collective commitment to professionalism, cooperation, and the establishment of a shared framework for conduct. By adhering to these principles, we can create an environment where all stakeholders work together seamlessly, driving projects toward their intended goals and delivering value to our clients. I’d love to ask other project managers: would you join me in that commitment?