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Driven By Professionals: An Interview with Harry McDonald (aka. Right at Home Contracting)
As a family owned Canadian company that began in 1929, we know that construction professionals need products and service they can count on. Our slogan “Driven By Professionals” is the driving force behind all the products and services we offer. As part of a new initiative, we wanted to highlight some professionals in our industry who are doing some pretty incredible things. Each month we will be featuring two individuals in our industry to learn a little bit more about them and the type of work they specialize in.
This week we chatted with Harry McDonald, aka the man behind Right at Home Contracting. In this interview we talk with Harry about his passion for his job, and the challenges that can come with running your own business. We also discuss his appreciation for the growing construction community online, and all the learning and support it provides for people in our industry.
Here is our interview with Harry (@right_at_home1):
1. Who are you?
Harry McDonald, 35 yr. old. Been in the construction field since I was 15. Started off building new homes then developed into all aspects of residential contracting and I have done some commercial work as well.
2. What’s your specialty?
Although I love doing decks and roofing, I have always looked at myself as a framer building new homes.
3. How did you get into the trade?
I started learning what framing was all about from my Dad, but he would never actually teach me so I have been self taught most of what I know. But I’ve come to realize the social community has a lot to offer and I truly appreciate what people are doing.
4. What’s your favourite part about work?
Since I’ve started building I’ve developed a passion for seeing a project start as a thought or idea and being brought to reality. I also love seeing how many new tools have made my job so much easier.
5. What is one of the biggest challenges you’ve faced in the workplace?
Working for myself I’ve found one of the biggest hurdles is lack of good reliable help. [It’s hard to find] somebody that shares the same passion for their work as much as me, and then trying to make it last as long as possible.
6. What project/job(s) are you the most proud of?
A couple of projects that I often refer to that I have completed are called the Castles of King City. They were some of the most labour intensive home, also some of the biggest. The last one I completed was 8000 sq ft, and the main roof was a 21/12 pitch and every eve was a bell cut (curved). I think they were a challenge and being able to put that roof together on my own gave me great satisfaction.
7. What advice would you give to someone getting into the trade?
Some advice I would tell anybody getting into the trades is never stop learning. You can never know enough, and the more you know not just about your job but about all construction will make things easier for you and everybody else. Sometimes it’s not just about what you’re doing but what the next person has to do. This will help give you a good name and secure more jobs.
8. What do you like to do in your spare time?
Some of the things I love to do in my spare time might be funny being who I am, but I am actually a bit of a tech geek. I like learning what I can do with my computers and other types of tech hardware. I also love powersports, and I’m big into dirt biking, ATVs, boating, sledding, and all those types of things.
BONUS! Favourite Bissett Product?
Being I haven’t used all the Bissett Tools they have to offer I can’t really pick my favourite, but I can say they are well built, durable tool built for jobsites. Can be used for light duty as well and with the warranty I would recommend any trades person to make a purchase on their tools, as well as great quality fasteners.
You can find Harry on Instagram at @right_at_home1
Do you know someone who should be featured next in our series? Let us know!
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