Joe Meyers has been in the construction industry since 1991. He has earned his Master Fire and Smoke, Master Water Restorer and Journeyman Textile designations from the IICRC. Joe has also earned his Certified Restorer (CR) and Water Loss Specialist (WLS) certifications from RIA.
1. WHAT DREW YOU TO THE RESTORATION INDUSTRY?
I had been in the construction industry for over 25 years. During most of this time, I was self-employed and looking
to hang up my tool belt when an opportunity arose through a somewhat ambiguous advertisement for a position with Hammer Building and Restoration. Steve Gohm, the owner, has been extremely supportive and outstanding to work for.
2. WHAT WAS YOUR MOST CHALLENGING PROJECT?
We did a large water loss and reconstruction on a religious retreat center in a very remote area; the logistics of providing equipment and personnel were very exciting. The building was about five years old and had some building envelope issues, along with a second pipe break three days into the project.
3. WHAT ARE THE GREATEST CHANGES YOU’VE SEEN TO THE RESTORATION INDUSTRY SINCE YOUR CAREER BEGAN?
The proliferation of third-party administrators (TPAs) and their attempts to fit every water loss into the same box and efforts of managing a loss remotely using predetermined formulae or algorithms that are not appropriate for the job. Most of the moisture monitoring programs are an example of this; they allow for little deviation or professional judgement on the restorer’s part. If the scope of work was determined and modified as necessary for each project individually and objectively with open communication on both the TPA and restorer’s part, I believe that jobs would have better results. There is certainly a place for TPAs in the restoration industry, however, our goal should be providing to the specific needs of the project, not a one-size-fits-all model.
4. WHO HAVE BEEN YOUR MENTORS IN THE INDUSTRY?
There have been many people throughout my career who have consistently and patiently given their time and shared their knowledge: Pete Consigli, Cliff Zlotnik, Charles Cassani, Todd Bradley and Phillip Rosebrook Sr. come to mind, but the person who has helped me the most and been an incredible mentor is Ken Larsen. Ken has always been there to provide guidance and reassurance, challenge me to become a good restorer, and encourage me to continue my education. His knowledge on science-based restorative drying is second to none.
5. WHY ARE YOU INVOLVED WITH ORGANIZATIONS LIKE RIA?
I believe that RIA will play a major role in the future for developing competent restorers; there are so many talented people who are willing to help RIA with the education and advocating for restorers. We should be teaching technically correct and proven information. RIA has people within the organization who are dedicated to providing education to the industry that is factually correct and relevant. I envision RIA providing an alternate avenue for certifications within the industry. The CR and WLS programs and designations are extremely prestigious and demonstrate a restorer’s dedication.
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