Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
2014 Builder of the Year
Affiliations
Interests
SBCA Builder of the Year Awards
Timeline
Generic
Rodney Dale Utt

Rodney Dale Utt

Santa Barbara,CA

Summary

I am semi-retired General Contractor who also holds a specialty C-6 license as a Cabinetmaker, Millworker, and Finish Carpenter. I was formally trained by a master, Frank Taylor. After 5 years of working in the field, I applied for, tested, and received my Contractors License in 1981 and began my first remodel/addition. Since then I have completed hundreds of projects from ground up homes, built out commercial buildings and restaurants, done countless additions and remodels from one room to the entire house, and have designed, built and installed thousands of custom cabinets. Since I received the Builder of the Year Award from the Santa Barbara Contractor's Association in 2015, sold my corporation, and announced my retirement, I have continued to teach in the Construction Tech Department of SBCC and have done numerous projects as a Project Manager or Owner's Representative.

I continue to occasionally do Expert Witness work and have been deposed approximately 4 times in construction defect cases for the defendant, and have testified in trial on two separate occasions. I am currently acting as an expert witness for the plaintiff on a construction defects case.

Overview

44
44
years of professional experience

Work History

Adjunct Professor for Construction Technology

Santa Barbara City College
01.2010 - Current

I have taught Construction Technology at SBCC for these last 15 years. Classes I teach and have taught are Framing, Finish Carpentry, Cabinetmaking, MEP, Blueprint Reading, & Calculating and Measuring, and I am the Woodshop/Furniture teacher at the Wake Center....a satellite of SBCC.

My classes have designed and built structures at Wake and SBCC Main campuses.

  • Taught Construction Technology courses, providing instruction to up to 24 undergraduate students.
  • Built relationships with students, mentoring on personal, professional and academic goals while providing coaching on effective study habits.
  • Graded quizzes, tests, homework, and projects to provide students with timely academic progress information and feedback.
  • Strengthened critical thinking skills in students through the incorporation of problem-based learning activities.

Project Manager

Trace & Heather Sturgeon
07.2022 - 12.2024

Supervised the complete gut and remodel of the clients 4000 square foot home on the mesa, one block from the beach including vetting subs, supervising and scheduling all subcontract Work and well as field carpenters. Created drawings for framers, plumbers, iron door and window manufacturers, cabinetmakers, etc. Designed and drew kitchen and butler's pantry. Performed misc. work on site.

  • Supervised field crews to maximize quality and work efficiency.
  • Managed subcontractors effectively, ensuring timely completion of tasks and high-quality workmanship.
  • Scheduled subcontractors, consultants and vendors to coordinate completion of jobs and tasks.
  • Drove project objectives on day-to-day operational level by working closely with clients, decision-makers and vendors.
  • Maintained accurate records related to project progress reports, change orders, subcontractor agreements, invoices for timely submission to clients or regulatory agencies when required.
  • Coordinated required inspections with local jurisdictions to identify and quickly resolve any code concerns.
  • Assisted owners and project manager in budgeting, bidding and award of subcontractors.
  • Identified and reviewed proposed change order requests.
  • Inspected completed work to verify quality standards and compliance with criteria.
  • Reviewed project details to specify correct materials and equipment for job sites.
  • Monitored job progress and performance of employees or contractors to complete projects prior to deadlines.
  • Developed and maintained positive relationships with clients and other stakeholders.
  • Sourced suppliers and purchased necessary materials for work.
  • Assisted in recruiting and hiring new construction and extraction workers.
  • Provided feedback to workers on job performance and safety procedures.

Project Manager

Gardner Management Corporation
02.2021 - 12.2024

    Coordinated and supervised various remodels of a 2 story, 1875 Victorian home converted to office in the course of the last 3 years including a design and drawing 2 bath & a kitchen remodel, painted the entire building inside and out, replacing all of the door hardware, adding motorized blinds, and remodeling various offices as well as designing, drawing, and creating the scope of work for a new entrance walkway, patio, fencing and new trash enclosure.

    • Successfully managed multiple projects simultaneously by prioritizing tasks according to urgency, resource availability, and alignment with organizational goals.
    • Planned, designed, and scheduled phases for large projects.
    • Developed comprehensive project plans with clear timelines, milestones, and budget requirements, ensuring timely delivery of high-quality results.
    • Monitored progress against established goals, adjusting schedules and resources as needed to keep projects on track.
    • Developed strong relationships with stakeholders through regular communication updates, fostering trust and confidence in the team''s ability to deliver results.
    • Collaborated closely with senior management to align project objectives with strategic company initiatives, ensuring that efforts contributed to overall business growth.
    • Managed projects from procurement to commission.
    • Negotiated contracts with vendors and suppliers, securing quality materials at competitive prices for efficient use of resources.
    • Effectively managed scope creep by establishing clear boundaries on requested changes while keeping projects aligned with original objectives and budgets.
    • Maintained open communication by presenting regular updates on project status to customers.
    • Reported regularly to managers on project budget, progress, and technical problems.
    • Sourced, vetted and managed vendors needed to accomplish project goals.

Project Manager

Richard & Wendy Mangone
03.2020 - 08.2021

    Worked with owners, sub contractors, vendors, building officials, architects, engineers and construction workers to accomplish the complete gut and remodel of an existing Montecito home as well as the addition of a new master suite w/ bath as well as extended existing living room and adding a new mechanical room. Supervised site work, utilities, drainage and export of approx. 150 yards of earth.

    • Delivered exceptional customer satisfaction by proactively addressing client concerns and meeting or exceeding expectations throughout the engagement process.
    • Developed strong relationships with stakeholders through regular communication updates, fostering trust and confidence in the team''s ability to deliver results.
    • Identified plans and resources required to meet project goals and objectives.
    • Provided detailed project status updates to stakeholders and executive management.
    • Managed projects from procurement to commission.
    • Provided detailed technical and operational direction in project challenges, consistently meeting deliverables according to deadlines.
    • Coordinated material procurement and required services for projects within budget requirements.
    • Negotiated contracts with vendors and suppliers, securing quality materials at competitive prices for efficient use of resources.
    • Effectively managed scope creep by establishing clear boundaries on requested changes while keeping projects aligned with original objectives and budgets.
    • Reduced project costs, negotiating contracts with suppliers and optimizing resource allocation.
    • Maintained open communication by presenting regular updates on project status to customers.
    • Scheduled and facilitated meetings between project stakeholders to discuss deliverables, schedules and conflicts.
    • Sourced, vetted and managed vendors needed to accomplish project goals.

General Contractor/Cabinetmaker/Finish Carpenter

Utt Construction Inc.
01.1981 - 02.2015

    I received by B1, General Building Contractor's License and my C6, Cabinetmaking, Millwork, & Finish Carpentry License in 1981 and began construction of additions, remodels, and ground up homes. I purchased a building in Goleta in 1988 and established my offices and cabinetmaking and millwork shop. I sold the building in 1998 and leased back the shop, offices, and yards until my semi- retirement in 2015.

    • Hired and oversaw subcontractors to meet project needs.
    • Established a reputation for delivering high-quality work consistently meeting or exceeding client expectations.
    • Managed multiple simultaneous projects, ensuring timely completion without sacrificing quality or exceeding budgets.
    • Completed projects on time and within budget through meticulous scheduling and coordination of resources.
    • Managed large-scale construction projects within cost, quality and time constraints,
    • Enhanced client satisfaction with exceptional attention to detail, clear communication, and consistent followthrough.
    • Adhered to building codes and regulations in planning and construction phases for full project compliance.
    • Conducted regular site inspections to ensure adherence to project specifications and building codes.
    • Built strong relationships with subcontractors resulting in competitive pricing and reliable workmanship on job sites.
    • Kept site work safe and in line with budget, schedule, and applicable building codes.
    • Obtained construction permits and verified compliance with relevant regulations.
    • Reduced budget overages by carefully monitoring expenses and implementing cost-saving measures.
    • Resolved conflicts between contractors, suppliers and subcontractors to eliminate workflow disruptions.
    • Collaborated with architects and subcontractors to devise cost-effective construction solutions.
    • Collaborated with architects, engineers, and clients to ensure seamless integration of design elements into construction projects.
    • Improved project efficiency by streamlining communication between subcontractors and clients.
    • Analyzed building plans and prepared bids to deliver timely, cost-effective project completion.
    • Maintained accurate records of progress updates for clients, keeping them informed throughout the construction process.
    • Reviewed contractor invoices, approving payments on acceptable work.
    • Implemented safety protocols to minimize risks on job sites, resulting in fewer accidents and injuries.
    • Led successful bids securing new contracts contributing significantly towards business growth and increased profitability.
    • Developed comprehensive project plans outlining scope, timeline, and deliverables for all stakeholders.
    • Implemented strategies to reduce costs, improve productivity and reduce waste.
    • Performed regular inspections of job sites to verify staff and subcontractor observance of important safety protocols.
    • Mentored junior team members in construction best practices, improving overall team performance and productivity.
    • Negotiated favorable terms with suppliers for materials procurement, lowering overall project costs.
    • Developed construction plans, schedules and budgets to achieve stakeholder objectives.
    • Coordinated closely with local authorities obtaining necessary permits quickly thus expediting project timelines.
    • Cultivated strong relationships with clients, leading to repeat business and positive referrals.
    • Developed and maintained network of reliable subcontractors, ensuring availability for various project needs.
    • Ensured timely project delivery, coordinating closely with subcontractors and suppliers to maintain schedules.
    • Elevated project completion rates by implementing efficient task delegation and resource management strategies.
    • Achieved stringent quality standards, overseeing every project phase to ensure work met client specifications.
    • Optimized workforce allocation to meet project deadlines, carefully balancing skill sets and workload.
    • Supervised diverse construction teams, promoting collaborative environment to achieve common goals.
    • Negotiated contracts with clients, securing profitable deals while ensuring clarity of scope and deliverables.
    • Conducted thorough site inspections to identify and rectify potential issues before they impacted project timelines.
    • Maintained up-to-date knowledge of building codes and regulations, ensuring all projects were in compliance.
    • Developed and implemented construction plans according to client specifications and expectations.
    • Performed regular job site observations to provide direction for general contractor personnel and subcontractor laborers.
    • Monitored construction sites for compliance with safety regulations and adherence to standards.
    • Negotiated labor contracts with general contractors and subcontractors.
    • Led design and development of residential and commercial buildings.
    • Scheduled utility service providers according to project timelines.
    • Obtained building and specialty permits from local jurisdictional agencies.
    • Collaborated with structural engineers to evaluate structural integrity of projects.
    • Coordinated with site personnel, clients and local government officials to achieve on-time project delivery.
    • Used computer software to design construction plans and perform calculations.
    • Conducted critical pre-installation conferences with general contractors, subcontractors, consultants, and manufacturer's representatives.
    • Installed hardware such as drawer pulls, hinges, and handles.
    • Read and interpreted design plans to understand project specifications.
    • Blueprint design understanding
    • Installation understanding
    • Measured and cut materials to specified dimensions to achieve precise fit.
    • Conducted regular equipment maintenance checks, maximizing machine performance and reducing downtime due to malfunctions.
    • Inspected completed cabinets for quality assurance.
    • Constructed custom cabinets for residential and commercial spaces using varied hand and power tools.
    • Utilized advanced woodworking techniques, maintaining a high degree of craftsmanship in all completed projects.
    • Repaired and maintained equipment for optimal function and usage.
    • Reduced waste by accurately measuring and cutting materials, minimizing the need for rework or additional purchases.
    • Repaired cabinets and cabinet parts.
    • Assembled cabinet components using glue and mechanical fasteners to create strong, durable products.
    • Utilized CAD software to create detailed drawings of custom cabinetry.
    • Troubleshot issues with cabinetry installations, promptly addressing concerns to ensure complete customer satisfaction.
    • Established a reputation for reliability by consistently meeting deadlines, even during periods of high production demand.
    • Implemented quality control measures, consistently producing durable and aesthetically pleasing cabinets that met all specifications.
    • Enhanced client satisfaction by delivering high-quality custom cabinetry tailored to their specific needs and preferences.
    • Assisted in the installation of finished cabinetry onsite for seamless integration into existing structures or new construction projects.
    • Worked with clients to design and construct custom cabinets based on needs and preferences.
    • Maintained accurate records of work performed for billing purposes.
    • Managed inventory and supplies, ensuring availability of materials for uninterrupted production flow.
    • Optimized workshop layout for maximum efficiency while maintaining a clean, organized workspace conducive to productivity and creativity.
    • Sanded and finished surfaces to create smooth, polished appearance.
    • Streamlined production processes for increased efficiency, ensuring timely completion of projects within budget constraints.
    • Developed detailed project plans with clearly defined timelines, facilitating smooth communication between clients and production staff throughout the project lifecycle.
    • Contributed innovative ideas during design meetings, helping shape unique concepts that set our company apart from competitors in the market.
    • Liaised with other woodworkers to complete projects on schedule and within budget.
    • Coordinated with suppliers for prompt delivery of materials.
    • Collaborated with designers and architects to create functional and visually appealing cabinetry solutions for residential and commercial spaces.
    • Leveraged expertise in various wood species and finishes to recommend optimal solutions based on client preferences and desired aesthetics.
    • Increased customer referrals by consistently exceeding expectations through exceptional attention to detail and personalized service.
    • Provided accurate project estimates and pricing to facilitate proper budgeting and project planning.
    • Adapted to emerging trends in cabinet design, keeping company's offerings competitive and appealing to clients.
    • Enhanced workshop safety by implementing comprehensive safety protocols.
    • Collaborated with interior designers and architects to interpret design plans and specifications, ensuring accurate execution.
    • Customized storage solutions for clients, maximizing space utilization and functionality.
    • Trained new apprentices in cabinet-making skills, enhancing overall skill level of workshop.
    • Organized workshop layout for optimal workflow, leading to smoother production process.
    • Crafted prototypes for client approval, facilitating clearer communication and expectations.
    • Collaborated with designers to ensure precise execution of bespoke cabinetry designs, resulting in higher client approval rates.
    • Resolved complex technical issues during project execution, preventing delays and maintaining client trust.
    • Designed custom furniture for increased client satisfaction, tailoring to specific requirements and tastes.
    • Facilitated client consultations to understand their vision and needs, leading to more tailored project outcomes.
    • Updated and maintained woodworking equipment, prolonging its lifespan and ensuring operational efficiency.
    • Conducted detailed quality checks on all completed items, ensuring they met stringent standards before delivery.
    • Streamlined cabinet assembly process, reducing production time while maintaining high-quality standards.
    • Led installation of cabinetry at client sites, ensuring seamless fit and client satisfaction.
    • Cut plywood, MDF and solid wood to size.
    • Sanded and finished surfaces to create smooth and attractive finish.
    • Maintained proper fit and appearance of cabinets and countertops to fit into desired installation area.
    • Studied project plans and blueprints to determine required materials and specifications, plan projects and coordinated necessary supplies.
    • Designed, constructed and installed cabinetry and woodwork.
    • Developed and retained excellent tool and machinery skill to produce consistent, top-quality work.
    • Reinforced joints with nails or other fasteners to prepare articles for finishing.
    • Created detailed moldings and trim for cabinetry and furniture.
    • Used power tools and hand tools to install fixtures, floorings, trim and hardware, cutting materials to specified measurements.
    • Achieved customer satisfaction through precise alignment of doors, windows, staircases, and built-in furniture installations.
    • Reduced waste and costs by accurately measuring, cutting, and installing trim work, cabinetry, moldings, and other custom woodwork components.
    • Maintained a safe working environment by adhering to industry best practices and following safety guidelines during all aspects of finish carpentry projects.
    • Improved overall aesthetic appeal of residential and commercial spaces through meticulous attention to detail in finish carpentry tasks.
    • Ensured long-lasting results with proper installation of hardware such as hinges, handles, locks, brackets, and supports for cabinets or shelves.
    • Dismantled and demolished areas prior to repairs and installment of new materials.
    • Managed inventory of tools, supplies and equipment.
    • Specialized in foundations, framing and finish carpentry.
    • Inspected buildings to identify repair needs.
    • Safely operated electric cordless and hammer drills and cutting torches.
    • Read and interpreted blueprints and construction documents to determine project directives.
    • Assembled and installed furniture and cabinetry.
    • Effectively used nails, screws, pneumatic nailing systems, concrete anchors, powder-actuated fasteners and framing connectors.
    • Cut and shaped materials to meet outlined measurements.
    • Repaired damaged doors, windows and other structures.
    • Built and hung custom doors and frames.
    • Conducted detailed consultations with clients to understand their needs and preferences, leading to highly satisfactory outcomes.
    • Custom-built window frames and doors to meet specific architectural requirements, enhancing property value.
    • Collaborated with designers to bring creative visions to life, transforming spaces with bespoke wooden features.
    • Maintained high standards of craftsmanship by continuous learning and application of new carpentry methods.
    • Enhanced client satisfaction by delivering tailor-made carpentry solutions for luxury homes.
    • Fostered long-term client relationships by consistently exceeding expectations with quality and service.
    • Facilitated smoother project execution by maintaining clear communication between contractors and clients.
    • Transformed outdated interiors into modern, functional spaces with innovative carpentry solutions.
    • Reduced material waste significantly by precise measurement and cutting techniques.
    • Installed high-end custom cabinetry for improved kitchen functionality and aesthetics.
    • Increased project efficiency with meticulous planning and execution of detailed trim work.
    • Optimized workshop layout for better flow and efficiency, allowing for smoother project execution.
    • Contributed to positive team morale and work environment by offering support and guidance to junior carpenters.
    • Designed and executed elaborate staircase installations, contributing to grandeur of residential projects.
    • Collaborated with architects, designers, and general contractors to ensure seamless integration of finish carpentry elements into larger construction projects.
    • Prepared cost estimates for contractors and customers, staying within requested budgets.
    • Delivered visually appealing interiors with expertly crafted crown molding installations that complemented the existing design elements.
    • Boosted property values for clients through high-quality woodworking craftsmanship in both new constructions and remodels.
    • Enhanced client satisfaction by delivering high-quality finish carpentry work on time and within budget.
    • Provided exceptional customer service by addressing clients'' concerns promptly and offering solutions tailored to their needs.
    • Studied specifications in blueprints, sketches or building plan to prepare project layout and determine dimensions and materials required.
    • Built shelves, doors, windows and counters to correct scale and dimensions according to blueprints and building plans.
    • Collaborated with other carpenters, journeymen and supervisors to complete projects.
    • Upheld high standards of craftsmanship by continually staying up-to-date with industry trends and techniques through professional development opportunities.
    • Studied specifications in building plans to determine dimensions and materials required.
    • Increased project efficiency by effectively managing materials, tools, and resources needed for each job.

Project Manager

Theodore Roosevelt Gardner II
01.2010 - 06.2014

    I supervised the ground breaking and construction of 2 projects simultaneously on the owner's property located on Mountain Drive, where his custom home was completely destroyed by the Tea Fire. The first project was "The Piano House", and the second was "The Book Building". I supervised all aspects of the 2 ground up homes. The Piano House is 3,200 sq. Ft. and is amoeba shaped, built entirely of concrete (including the roof), steel and glass. The Book Building is a 5,200 sq. Ft. Structure which is 10 very large books stacked haphazardly in 2 stacks. The pages are brass and the spines (curved) and covers are copper. It is now TRG's museum.

    The projects are unique a buildings as have been built anywhere and were extremely complex.

    • Successfully managed multiple projects simultaneously by prioritizing tasks according to urgency, resource availability, and alignment with organizational goals.
    • Planned, designed, and scheduled phases for large projects.
    • Established effective communication among team members for enhanced collaboration and successful project completion.
    • Monitored progress against established goals, adjusting schedules and resources as needed to keep projects on track.
    • Developed strong relationships with stakeholders through regular communication updates, fostering trust and confidence in the team''s ability to deliver results.
    • Identified plans and resources required to meet project goals and objectives.
    • Coordinated cross-functional teams and resolved conflicts, maintaining a positive work environment throughout the project lifecycle.
    • Managed projects from procurement to commission.
    • Provided detailed technical and operational direction in project challenges, consistently meeting deliverables according to deadlines.
    • Coordinated material procurement and required services for projects within budget requirements.
    • Negotiated contracts with vendors and suppliers, securing quality materials at competitive prices for efficient use of resources.
    • Effectively managed scope creep by establishing clear boundaries on requested changes while keeping projects aligned with original objectives and budgets.
    • Mentored junior team members in project management best practices to enhance their skills and contribute to better overall performance.
    • Improved client relationships, consistently meeting or exceeding project expectations and maintaining open lines of communication.
    • Optimized project schedules, identifying critical path tasks and reallocating resources to maintain momentum.
    • Improved stakeholder satisfaction with detailed project updates and proactive issue resolution.
    • Monitored project progress, identified risks and took corrective action as needed.
    • Scheduled and facilitated meetings between project stakeholders to discuss deliverables, schedules and conflicts.
    • Sourced, vetted and managed vendors needed to accomplish project goals.
    • Recruited and oversaw personnel to achieve performance and quality targets.
    • Verified quality of deliverables and conformance to specifications before submitting to clients.

Education

No Degree - Carpentry, Cabinetmaking, Millwork

California Division of Forestry
Sonora, CA
08-1974

High School Diploma -

North Hollywood High School
North Hollywood, CA
06-1966

Skills

  • Online teaching
  • Project management
  • Project planning
  • Project planning and development
  • Project scheduling
  • Strategic planning
  • Schedule management
  • Client relations
  • Customer relations
  • Staff management
  • Work flow planning
  • Document management
  • Scope management
  • Project estimation and bidding
  • Project scope
  • Contract management
  • Conflict management
  • Purchasing and procurement
  • Construction management
  • Meeting facilitation
  • Influencing skills
  • Permit processing
  • Vendor management
  • Curriculum creation
  • Innovative teaching
  • Classroom management
  • Blueprint reading
  • Carpentry
  • Construction site management
  • Demolition
  • Scheduling and planning
  • Effective written and verbal communication
  • Window and door installation
  • Construction estimating
  • Project scope assessment
  • Materials procurement
  • Price proposals
  • Permitting
  • Change order management
  • Design-build expertise
  • Subcontractor supervision
  • Contract bidding
  • Job bidding
  • Building codes compliance
  • Problem-solving
  • Decision-making
  • Building, demolition, and renovation
  • Site management
  • Customer service
  • Management
  • Job planning

2014 Builder of the Year

Won overall Builder of the Year for my Book Building submission.

Affiliations

  • Licensed (inactive at this moment) General Contractor, Cabinetmaker, Millworker, and Finish Carpenter
  • Director - Santa Barbara Contractor's Association (Past President)
  • Adjunct Instructor and Woodshop Teacher at SBCC, Construction Technology Department

Interests

  • Gardening
  • I participate in a variety of outdoor recreational activities
  • Enjoy hobbies that combine physical activity with outdoor exploration
  • Hiking
  • Camping
  • Mindfulness Practices
  • Dancing
  • Enjoy participating in walking and bicycling for overall physical and mental well-being
  • Regularly practice mindfulness and meditation for overall wellness
  • I enjoy sketching and drawing, which helps improve my creativity and attention to detail
  • Crafting and DIY Projects
  • Backpacking and Hiking
  • Exploring famous landmarks, historical sites, and cultural attractions in a new destination
  • Historical Exploration
  • Train Travel
  • Adventure Travel
  • Road Trips

SBCA Builder of the Year Awards

2014 Builder of the Year

2014 Winner - New Residential Construction costs over 1.5 million

2012 Winner -Residential Remodel Cost Up To 500k

2006 Best Residential Remodel Construction from 500k to 1million

2005 Member's Choice Award in Builder of the Year

2004 Outstanding Craftsmanship by a Subcontractor (Cabinetmaker)

1999 Best Finish Work All Interior Trades

1999 Best Remodel Cost up to 250k

Timeline

Project Manager

Trace & Heather Sturgeon
07.2022 - 12.2024

Project Manager

Gardner Management Corporation
02.2021 - 12.2024

Project Manager

Richard & Wendy Mangone
03.2020 - 08.2021

Adjunct Professor for Construction Technology

Santa Barbara City College
01.2010 - Current

Project Manager

Theodore Roosevelt Gardner II
01.2010 - 06.2014

General Contractor/Cabinetmaker/Finish Carpenter

Utt Construction Inc.
01.1981 - 02.2015

No Degree - Carpentry, Cabinetmaking, Millwork

California Division of Forestry

High School Diploma -

North Hollywood High School
Rodney Dale Utt