Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Arkansas Home Improvement License
Timeline
Generic

Charles Aston

Summary

I've accumulated 15 years of profound experience as a handyman and business owner. I began with a keen interest in home repair and maintenance, leading me to establish my own handyman service. Throughout these years, I've honed his skills in a diverse range of services, including but not limited to plumbing, electrical work, carpentry, painting, and minor landscaping. My hands-on approach has not only built a reputation for quality craftsmanship but also for customer satisfaction.

Overview

25
25
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Handyman Business Owner & Operator

River Valley Pro Handyman
02.2021 - 01.2025

Business Management:

  • Oversee all business operations, including financial management, budgeting, and strategic planning to ensure profitability and growth.
  • Manage client relationships, ensuring customer satisfaction and repeat business through excellent service delivery.
  • Handle marketing and advertising efforts to attract new clients, possibly including online marketing, local ads, and community engagement.

Service Delivery:

  • Perform a wide range of home maintenance and repair tasks such as plumbing, electrical work, carpentry, painting, and minor landscaping.
  • Diagnose issues in homes or properties, providing cost estimates and time frames for completion of tasks.
  • Execute repairs and installations in compliance with local building codes and safety standards.

Team Leadership:

  • If applicable, recruit, train, and manage a team of handymen or subcontractors, ensuring they are skilled and licensed for the tasks they undertake.
  • Schedule jobs efficiently, ensuring that all team members are utilized effectively and that projects are completed on time.
  • Conduct quality control checks on work done by the team to maintain high service standards.

Legal and Administrative Duties:

  • Ensure the business complies with local licensing requirements for handyman services. This might include obtaining necessary permits or licenses for certain jobs, especially where state laws dictate.
  • Manage insurance policies to protect the business, employees, and clients, including liability insurance and workers' compensation where needed.
  • Handle administrative tasks like invoicing, payment collection, and record-keeping for tax purposes.

Customer Service:

  • Respond to customer inquiries, manage complaints, and ensure customer feedback is used to improve services.
  • Provide consultations on home maintenance and upgrades, offering advice or solutions that align with client needs and budget.

Safety and Tools Management:

  • Maintain, repair, and purchase tools and equipment as necessary for the job. Ensure all tools are safe to use and in good condition.
  • Implement safety protocols to protect workers and clients during service delivery, adhering to OSHA guidelines or equivalent local safety standards.

Professional Development:

  • Keep up-to-date with the latest handyman techniques, tools, and local building codes through continuous learning or attending relevant workshops.
  • Network with other professionals in the industry to possibly expand service offerings or refer work outside the company's expertise.

Pro Department Sales

Lowes Home Improvement Stores
02.2021 - 04.2023

Pro Sales Responsibilities:

  • Client Relationship Management: Develop and maintain relationships with professional customers including contractors, builders, and property managers. Serve as their primary point of contact for sales and project management.
  • Sales Performance: Drive sales growth in the pro market segment by understanding customer needs, offering tailored solutions, and promoting Lowe's products and services.
  • Account Management: Manage sales accounts, track sales performance, and follow up on leads to secure new business opportunities. Ensure timely follow-ups and accurate quoting for projects.
  • Project Bidding: Assist pros in preparing accurate bids for their projects by leveraging knowledge of products, pricing, and inventory availability.
  • Credit and Financing: Guide pro customers through Lowe's credit programs and financing options to facilitate larger purchases or project financing.

Lumber and Building Materials Supervisor Responsibilities:

  • Team Leadership: Oversee the lumber and building materials department, including staff training, scheduling, and performance evaluations. Ensure your team provides excellent customer service and maintains a high level of product knowledge.
  • Inventory Management: Manage inventory levels to ensure product availability, coordinate with purchasing to restock, and address any supply chain issues or discrepancies.
  • Merchandising: Ensure that the department is well-organized, products are displayed attractively, and signage is clear to facilitate easy customer access and increase sales.
  • Safety and Compliance: Enforce safety standards for the handling and storage of lumber and building materials. Ensure compliance with OSHA and other relevant regulations.
  • Customer Service: Assist customers with selections, provide product information, and resolve any issues related to products or service in your department.
  • Loss Prevention: Monitor for theft or damage, implement strategies to reduce shrinkage, and maintain store security standards within your area of responsibility.

General Responsibilities:

  • Operational Efficiency: Work on improving operational procedures to enhance department productivity, including optimizing workflow and reducing waste.
  • Training: Provide ongoing training to associates on products, sales techniques, safety procedures, and customer service standards.
  • Reporting: Prepare and analyze sales reports, inventory reports, and other key metrics to assess department performance and make informed decisions.
  • Cross-Department Collaboration: Work with other department supervisors to ensure a seamless shopping experience for customers, particularly on large projects that span multiple areas of the store.
  • Customer Feedback: Use customer feedback to drive changes in service, product selection, or operational practices to improve customer satisfaction.

Additional Duties:

  • Participate in store meetings, sales events, and promotional activities.
  • Keep up with industry trends, new product launches, and competitor activities to stay competitive in the market.

Hardlines Sales Associate

Scheels All Sports
06.2014 - 11.2020

Gun Sales Responsibilities:

  • Sales:
    Sell firearms, ammunition, and accessories, providing customers with detailed product information, including features, benefits, and safety considerations.
    Assist customers in selecting the right firearm for their needs, whether for hunting, sport shooting, or personal protection.
  • Compliance:
    Ensure all sales comply with federal, state, and local laws regarding the sale of firearms, including age verification, background checks (NICS), and waiting periods where applicable.
    Maintain accurate records for all firearm transactions as required by law, including ATF Form 4473.
  • Customer Service:
    Educate customers on gun safety, usage, and maintenance.
    Provide personalized service, helping with special orders, custom gun fitting, and answering questions about firearms.
  • Product Knowledge:
    Stay updated on the latest firearms, ammunition, and related products through ongoing training and education.
    Keep abreast of new laws or changes to existing firearm legislation.
  • Merchandising:
    Ensure firearms are displayed securely and attractively, maintaining visual standards for both safety and sales appeal.
    Manage inventory, including receiving new stock, performing stock counts, and ordering products.
  • Safety and Training:
    Conduct or arrange for gun safety classes or range days if applicable.
    Promote and uphold Scheels' safety policies within the gun department.

Hunting Sales Responsibilities:

  • Product Sales:
    Sell hunting gear such as apparel, boots, optics, and other hunting accessories.
    Advise customers on the best equipment for specific hunting conditions or game.
  • Expertise:
    Provide expert advice on hunting strategies, local regulations, and seasonal hunting opportunities.
    Keep informed on hunting trends, new products, and conservation issues.
  • Customer Engagement:
    Organize or participate in hunting events, seminars, or workshops to engage with the hunting community.
    Build relationships with hunters to encourage repeat business and loyalty.
  • Inventory and Merchandising:
    Manage the hunting section's stock, ensuring products are well-organized and easily accessible.
    Work with the buying team to select products that will meet customer demand and reflect current trends in hunting.
  • Educational Role:
    Educate customers on ethical hunting practices, game management, and the importance of conservation.
    Share knowledge about local wildlife, habitats, and hunting grounds.
  • Service:
    Assist with returns, warranty issues, or product demonstrations for hunting equipment.
    Offer repair services or refer customers to appropriate services for damaged or malfunctioning hunting gear.

Archery Sales Responsibilities:

  • Archery Equipment Sales:
    Sell bows, arrows, quivers, releases, sights, and other archery equipment, explaining the features and benefits of each product.
    Assist customers in choosing the right bow for their skill level, physical attributes, and intended use (hunting vs. target shooting).
  • Technical Expertise:
    Provide instruction on archery techniques, bow setup, tuning, and maintenance.
    Offer advice on arrow selection, including spine, length, and point weight.
  • Custom Fitting Services:
    Conduct bow fitting sessions to ensure that customers are comfortable and accurate with their equipment.
    Help with the setup of compound bows, traditional bows, and crossbows, including stringing and adjustment.
  • Archery Events:
    Organize or participate in archery leagues, competitions, or demonstration days to promote archery within the community.
    Host or assist with archery pro days or workshops for skill development.
  • Safety and Education:
    Educate customers on archery safety practices, range etiquette, and legal considerations for hunting with a bow.
    Ensure that customers understand the importance of proper use and care of archery equipment.

General Responsibilities:

  • Teamwork: Work collaboratively with other departments to provide a seamless shopping experience.
  • Sales Goals: Drive sales through upselling, cross-selling, and promoting special promotions or events.
  • Professional Development: Participate in ongoing training to enhance sales skills, product knowledge, and customer service.
  • Community Involvement: Engage in community activities related to hunting, shooting sports, and archery, potentially including sponsorships or partnerships with local clubs.


Correctional Sergeant

California Dept of Corrections & Rehabilitations
07.2000 - 05.2012

California Correctional Sergeant:

Supervision and Management:

  • Staff Supervision: Oversee Correctional Officers on assigned shifts, ensuring they are performing their duties efficiently and in accordance with departmental policies. Conduct performance appraisals and provide feedback, training, and development opportunities.
  • Shift Management: Assume responsibility for all activities and security on assigned days in minimum, medium, and maximum-security facilities. Manage shift schedules to ensure adequate staffing levels.

Security and Safety:

  • Security Maintenance: Conduct regular inspections to ensure compliance with regulations and standards related to facility maintenance, health, and safety of inmates.
  • Incident Response: Investigate alleged rule violations, inmate conflicts, unusual occurrences, and assist in the apprehension of escapees. Review and write incident reports, participate in disciplinary hearings.

Training and Development:

  • Training Programs: Develop training materials, assist in training new officers, and lead in-service training programs to keep staff current with procedures and policies.
  • On-the-Job Training (OJT): Ensure that staff meet mandated training requirements, including weapons qualifications and use of security equipment.

Policy and Procedure Enforcement:

  • Policy Compliance: Make sure staff follows state-mandated policies and procedures. Address any breaches in protocol with corrective actions or disciplinary measures.
  • Emergency Preparedness: Prepare for and respond to emergencies, such as inmate altercations or escapes, by coordinating with law enforcement and other departments as necessary.

Inmate Management:

  • Inmate Supervision: Oversee the screening, classification, and daily activities of inmates. Supervise modified activity schedules during inclement weather or other special circumstances.
  • Rehabilitation Programs: Assist in the development and monitoring of programs aimed at modifying inmates' attitudes and behaviors, including vocational and academic education.

Administrative Duties:

  • Administrative Paperwork: Complete or assist in completing various reports, including incident reports, administrative segregation notices, and other required documentation.
  • Communication: Ensure effective communication among staff, including the use of de-escalation techniques and gender-responsive communication.

Leadership and Problem Solving:

  • Problem Identification and Resolution: Identify and resolve issues that interfere with the smooth operation of the facility, ensuring that day-to-day operations continue efficiently.
  • Interdepartmental Liaison: Act as a liaison between correctional staff and other departments such as medical, psychological services, and inmate self-help programs.

California Correctional Officer:

Security and Custody:

  • Inmate Supervision: Monitor inmates in housing units, dining areas, recreation, work areas, and during transport to maintain order and security.
  • Security Procedures: Conduct regular counts, searches for contraband, and ensure inmates adhere to facility rules.

Emergency Response:

  • Crisis Management: Respond to emergencies such as fights, medical incidents, or escape attempts, applying de-escalation techniques or physical intervention when necessary.

Communication:

  • Reporting: Document observations, incidents, and inmate behavior. Prepare reports for daily logs, incident investigations, and disciplinary actions.
  • Interpersonal Skills: Communicate effectively with inmates, staff, and external agencies while managing conflicts and maintaining a professional demeanor.

Inmate Care and Management:

  • Health and Welfare: Monitor inmate health, hygiene, and well-being, reporting any concerns to medical staff.
  • Rehabilitation Support: Encourage participation in educational, vocational, and rehabilitative programs to aid in inmate reformation.

Safety and Training:

  • Safety Compliance: Follow all safety protocols, including those related to use of force, fire safety, and emergency procedures.
  • Continuous Training: Participate in ongoing training for physical fitness, weapons handling, self-defense, and policy updates.

Facility Operations:

  • Operational Duties: Perform routine tasks such as key control, tool accountability, and helping with facility maintenance or special operations.
  • Escort and Transport: Securely escort inmates within the facility or to external locations like court or medical appointments.

Teamwork:

  • Collaboration: Work closely with other officers, sergeants, and department heads to ensure a cohesive security environment and effective facility management.

Education

Correctional Officer Supervision

California Correctional Sergeant Academy
Galt, CA
06-2009

Peace Officer Standardized Training

California Correctional Academy
Galt, CA
07-2000

High School Diploma -

Los Flores
Sacramento, CA
06-1991

Skills

  • Woodworking
  • Carpentry
  • Painting
  • Repair work
  • Drywall
  • Construction management
  • Exterior and interior painting
  • Electrical repairs
  • Indoor and outdoor painting
  • Project estimation and bidding
  • Window replacement
  • Hole repair
  • Door installation
  • Structural repair
  • Supply management
  • Building code compliance
  • Pressure washing
  • Cabinet installation
  • Fence repair
  • Flooring installation
  • Household repairs
  • Plumbing

Certification

  • Carpentry Certificate – Associated Builders and Contractors or National Center for Construction Education and Research.

Arkansas Home Improvement License

Home improvement license with River Valley Pro Handyman allows me to:

  • Perform a variety of home improvement tasks on single-family residences.
  • Undertake projects with a value up to $50,000, including both labor and materials.

This license classification is typically referred to as a "Limited Home Improvement License" in Arkansas, which means you can handle a range of home improvement work but are restricted to projects valued at $50,000 or less.

Timeline

Handyman Business Owner & Operator

River Valley Pro Handyman
02.2021 - 01.2025

Pro Department Sales

Lowes Home Improvement Stores
02.2021 - 04.2023

Hardlines Sales Associate

Scheels All Sports
06.2014 - 11.2020

Correctional Sergeant

California Dept of Corrections & Rehabilitations
07.2000 - 05.2012

Correctional Officer Supervision

California Correctional Sergeant Academy

Peace Officer Standardized Training

California Correctional Academy

High School Diploma -

Los Flores
Charles Aston