Joe Nickels
Overland Park,KS
Summary
Diligent and dependable candidate with experience managing multiple priorities with a positive attitude. I have a proven record developing and implementing projects with diverse stakeholders and rigorous standards. Experienced manager, communicator and problem solver in high performance construction and environmental sustainability. I believe in creating and maintaining meaningful relationships.
Willingness to take on added responsibilities to meet team goals.
Adept in project estimating and cost tracking, and excelling in client relationship management.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
Work History
Sr Project Strategist
Kala
2021.08 - 2024.08
- Analyzed plans and developed specifications for high performance, Passive House, Net Zero and HERS rated homes totaling $15M+ in realized revenue and 3 consecutive years of revenue growth
- Focus and expertise in building envelope performance, including insulation, air tightness, mechanical equipment, wall systems, windows and doors, vapor control, and bulk water.
- Led pre-bid meetings and site visits with all stakeholders for new construction, remodel and replacement projects.
- Evaluated subcontractor bids for accuracy and cost saving opportunities, leading to annual revenue growth for (3) consecutive years
- Produced comprehensive, accurate takeoffs and estimates for communication to all stakeholders (Procore)
- Assessed and resolved ongoing budget risks, prepared change orders and reviewed/approved key invoices during build phase (Procore)
- Sourced suppliers and purchased necessary materials for critical project areas
- Researched construction cost trends to stay up-to-date with industry changes
- Utilized data analytics and templates to streamline estimating processes (Tableau/Procore)
- Developed and maintained database of labor and material cost data for estimates (Procore)
- Built custom CRM platform and tracking for sales and development team (Salesmate/Monday.com)
- Built positive, productive relationships with 100+ trade partners and suppliers, and dozens of owners, architects, banks and other stakeholders
- Educated industry groups on building science best practice via conferences, webinars and industry groups while maintaining status as Certified Passive House Consultant, window technician, ERV commissioning agent and Aerobarrier installer
General Manager
Thrive Building Solutions
2019.08 - 2021.11
- Solo operator of product supply and consulting business for residential construction
- Responsible for all daily business activities, including marketing, sales, execution and management
- Secured and maintained (4) exclusive product supply relationships for building envelope materials
- Generated over $1M of revenue with sustainable margins
- Executed and held certification for install and service of all products sold
- Provided consulting services for design and production of Net Zero, Passive House, LEED and high performance homes
Sales Manager
Sun Solar
2017.03 - 2019.09
- Achieved top salesperson in Kansas City office, totaling $700k of revenue through in-home residential sales
- Advanced from Energy Consultant to Sales Manager due to superior sales performance and communication
- Trained and managed sales team of (7) consultants in Kansas City and Columbia, MO markets
- Responsible for weekly and monthly meetings, goal-setting, accountability and motivation for all sales team members
- Participated in company-wide sales meetings to set strategies, revenue targets and marketing plans for KC and Columbia markets
- Responsible for CRM tracking and analytics of supervised employees, as well as customer service request and complaint resolution
Lead Project Manager
Prairie Design Build
2011.09 - 2017.03
- Responsible for project planning, communication, cost management, quality assurance, risk management and record-keeping on residential and commercial projects
- Managed 28 unique projects and $1.58 million in total revenue
- Communicated budget, schedule and scope status with clients to define objectives and expectations
- Directed day-to-day operational aspects of project and scope in line with design documents, schedule and budget expectations
- Maintained relationships with 24 homeowners, 7 architects, 85+ engineers, suppliers, and subcontractors
- Supervised in-house framing crew including scheduling, budgeting and on-site support
- Assisted with strategic planning, estimating, job training, web design and business development for a high growth company
Sustainability Assistant
University of Idaho Sustainability Center
2009.08 - 2011.08
- Managed $33K in allocated budget, including 3 unique programs, 100+ volunteers and 10 part-time student employees
- Wrote and lobbied for university policy in sustainable purchasing and LEED buildings on campus; Both measures passed
- Conducted sustainability audit of Menard Law Building, including data collection, analysis and report composition
- Created and taught 21-hour sustainability curriculum for Upward Bound Math & Science Program
Education
Master of Urban Planning - Environmental Planning
University of Kansas
Lawrence, KSBachelor of Arts - History
University of Kansas
Lawrence, KSBachelor of Arts - Philosophy
University of Kansas
Lawrence, KSSkills
- Team Player
- Project Estimating and Cost Tracking
- Best building practices
- Materials Procurement
- Specifications and Plan Review
- Building systems and services
- Client Relationship Management
- Consultative Sales
- Verbal and written communication
- Communication and Interpersonal Connection
- Strategic Planning
- Data Analysis
- Project Management
- Project Planning
- Vendor Sourcing
- Advanced understanding of Procore
- Residential Construction
- Coaching and Mentoring
- Stakeholder Communications
Personal - Ultimate Frisbee
- Founded, managed and played for an independent sports team in USA Ultimate sanctioned competition
- From 2007 to 2016, established organizational leadership and tactical training systems for a program of 35+ members
- Achieved three top-15 National rankings and tournament finishes
- Eight-time participant in National championship tournament at college, club and senior competition levels
- Served on the Board of Directors for Kansas City Ultimate non-profit organization from 2011 - 2019
Timeline
Sr Project Strategist
Kala
2021.08 - 2024.08
General Manager
Thrive Building Solutions
2019.08 - 2021.11
Sales Manager
Sun Solar
2017.03 - 2019.09
Lead Project Manager
Prairie Design Build
2011.09 - 2017.03
Sustainability Assistant
University of Idaho Sustainability Center
2009.08 - 2011.08
Master of Urban Planning - Environmental Planning
University of Kansas
Bachelor of Arts - History
University of Kansas
Bachelor of Arts - Philosophy
University of Kansas
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