JAMES DESTRA
550 Pine Street, Brooklyn
Summary
NYC licensed contractor and MBE-certified construction leader with over 30 years of expertise in carpentry, maintenance, and full-scale project management. Skilled in overseeing all phases of construction from initiation through completion, with a proven ability to align projects with timelines, budgets, and safety standards. Recognized for strong organizational skills, effective communication, and collaborative leadership that drives successful outcomes with teams and stakeholders alike.
Overview
38
38
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
CEO/Owner
GHI Construction
03.1998 - Current
- Lead and manage all phases of residential and commercial construction projects, from demolition to final completion.
- Provide accurate cost and time estimates, ensuring projects are delivered within budget and on schedule.
- Supervise teams and direct site operations, including scaffolding, ladders, and hoist setup for elevated work.
- Oversee installation of finishes, applying caulk, sealants, and protective agents to achieve high-quality results.
- Operate and maintain heavy equipment, table saws, and power tools with strict adherence to safety standards.
- Coordinate site preparation, including removal of damaged tile, brick, and mortar, to ensure readiness for new construction.
Maintenance
Kinray Inc/Cardinal Health
02.2015 - 09.2020
- Installed drywall, ceilings, trim, and fabricate custom replacement moldings with precision.
- Ensured compliance with established job site safety regulations while maintaining a clean and organized work environment.
- Performed conveyor belt repairs to support operational efficiency.
- Conducted plumbing and electrical repairs and alterations to maintain facility functionality.
- Installed interior finish items including wall protection, doors, hardware, toilet accessories, cubicle curtain tracks, and TV brackets.
Carpenter
Warren Pearl Construction
06.1993 - 02.1998
- Loaded and unloaded building materials used for construction.
- Maintained site cleanliness and removed debris to ensure safety.
- Consistently assumed additional responsibilities and worked extended hours to meet project deadlines.
- Executed concrete and asphalt pours for catch basins to support durable drainage systems.
- Built and installed custom doors and frames with precision.
Carpenter's Helper
Peoples Fire House
04.1988 - 10.1993
- Assisted in demolition and site preparation for new construction.
- Monitored inventory and restocked materials to maintain workflow.
- Loaded and unloaded building materials for efficient project execution.
- Maintained organized and hazard-free job sites.
- Maintained tools and equipment, ensuring safety and operational efficiency on job sites.
Education
High School Diploma -
Franklin K. Lane H.S.
Queens, NY06-1989
Skills
- Drywall, Painting & Interior Finishing
- Plumbing & Electrical Repair
- Project Leadership & Team Supervision
- Cost Estimation & Project Planning
- Power Tools & Heavy Equipment Operation
- Independent & Self-Motivated Work Ethic
- Safety Compliance & Site Management
Certification
Construction Laws, Bonding and Risk Management, and MBE.
NYC College of Technology - Brooklyn, NY
Timeline
Maintenance
Kinray Inc/Cardinal Health
02.2015 - 09.2020
CEO/Owner
GHI Construction
03.1998 - Current
Carpenter
Warren Pearl Construction
06.1993 - 02.1998
Carpenter's Helper
Peoples Fire House
04.1988 - 10.1993
High School Diploma -
Franklin K. Lane H.S.