Sarnia’s Jordan Parker says he’s opened his new woodwork and cabinetry business just as one of the region’s strongest construction seasons arrives.
“This could be one of the busiest seasons in years,” he said. “I don’t think people wanted to spend during our extra-long winter, and now they do.
“We’re putting in 50-hour weeks here.”
Parker’s new venture called “Woodwork by J,” moved into 1173 Michener Road in January.
At age 26, he’s got nine years of carpentry experience under his belt and owned two of his own companies.
From the age of 17, the St. Clair Secondary grad learned the trade from various local carpenters. When he moved to Calgary, he did finishing work on hundreds of homes, as well as onsite millwork and cabinetry.
“Being in Calgary opened my eyes to style and design,” he said. “I worked on so many homes that are quite a bit different from what you see in Sarnia.”
He started “Parker Finishing Ltd.” out west but moved back home when he and his wife had a baby daughter.
His first company taught Parker the importance of building a brand and serving the customer well.
In Calgary, he found the market was looking for cheap housing. But in Sarnia, success depends on quality, reputation and customer service, said Parker.
Initially, he worked for another woodworking company on his return to Sarnia. But he soon realized that “being an entrepreneur is right in the core of me.”
Parker set out on his own and established Woodwork by J. The company employs two other carpenters and an office support person. He offers all forms of woodwork and specializes in cabinetry, entertainment units, crown moulding and more.
“Wood is big right now,” said Parker. “For a long time, it’s been pressboard and melamine in the kitchen but that has run its course. People often want 100% wood. They are coming to me for custom designing, building and installation.”
To contact Woodwork by J, call 519-491-1934. A showroom will open this summer.
ALL HAIL THE VINYL RECORD
It’s the 7th annual International Record Day on Saturday.
The Cheeky Monkey on Christina Street is celebrating with live entertainment starting at 11 a.m., exclusive releases and giveaways.
The Borderlite Trio, Virginia Plain and Erica & Sara will perform in store. Record Day has been ongoing since 2007 to spread the word about the unique culture surrounding nearly 1,000 independently owned record stores in the U.S. and around the world.
The Business Journal welcomes news tips about the local business community. Contact Cathy Dobson at [email protected] or 226-932-0985.
- Cathy Dobson