Name:  Brian Messina, AHC
Company, Location, and Years of Service:  Kamco Supply Corp of Boston – Woburn, Massachusetts – 17 Years with Kamco
Current Position:  Door Division Manager
Summary of Previous Industry Experience:  5 years with Door Ways, 1 1/2 years with Construction Specialties & 1 1/2 years with Thompson Co.
Total Years in the Industry:  25 Years

How did you get your start in the door and hardware industry?

I started working at a small door company “Door Ways Inc.” right out of high school. I worked in a small machine shop making production templates and maintaining/upgrading the equipment. In between projects I worked in the hollow metal & wood shops and even did some field installation. I also learned how to key locks and set-up key systems. After approximately 1 year I was offered a sales position. Needless to say I accepted and have not been able to get off this wild ride ever since.

Who have been mentors to you during your career?

I was very lucky to have worked with some great people as I was learning the door & hardware business; Guy Aveni, Bob Mitchell, John Madden & Bill Elliott. More recently (over the past several years) I have been mentored in business management by some of the best that I’ve ever met; Nelson Beveridge, Mike Williams & Jim Scaia of Kamco Supply.

What changes have you seen in the industry over the years?

As technology has improved we have seen it reflected in architectural hardware. Back in the day, electric strikes were as technical as it got. Today you can control an entire school campus from a single computer. That’s pretty amazing.

What’s the best part of your current job?

It’s getting involved with a problem/challenge, coming up with a solution and implementing the solution so that everyone involved is happy with the end result.

What career would you pursue if you weren’t working in the hardware industry?

As I sit in my chiropractor’s office waiting to be called I can’t help but think “If I only knew then what I know now.”

What’s your favorite hardware-related product?

It’s the most expensive product because we make more profit on it.

What would your colleagues/customers be surprised to learn about you?

I’m actually pretty proficient on XBox. Sometimes my son comes into his room to play and I’m already on it. It’s a great stress reliever!!

What’s your proudest accomplishment?

In my professional life it’s been growing the door division of Kamco Supply from just myself to where we are today. It’s been alot of hard work but very satisfying. In my personal life it’s been raising two incredible kids (their names escape me right now but they’re really great).

What do you like to do in your free time?

I enjoy boating, golfing, taking rides on my motorcycle and vacationing with my family.

What words of wisdom would you give to people entering the industry?

I would say work hard, learn as much as you can, and make sure you enjoy what you do. It will greatly increase your quality of life.

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