About
The Story Behind Black Cloud
Our Name
Named for a Marine
Black Cloud Wood & Steel LLC is named in honor of my grandfather, whose CB handle was “Black Cloud.” He was a World War II Marine. Though quiet by nature and modest in stature, he was known for his unwavering work ethic, exceptional standards, and a heart of gold.
He believed that quality mattered, integrity was non-negotiable, and a person’s word was their bond. Those values became the foundation of this company. Every project we take on is a reflection of the standard he set.
Construction has been part of my life since I could hold a hammer. My uncles taught me how to do DIY projects, new additions, and new home construction — I was learning the trade by doing it, not watching it. I’ve been officially working in construction since high school in 1988. That’s over 35 years of hands-on experience behind every project we take on. My uncles shaped how I think about work. Uncle Robert told me: “They won’t remember how fast you did it, only how well you did it.” Uncle Bruce told me: “Finish strong. Most contractors fail because they can’t follow through — it’s not how you are when things go right, it’s how you stay in the project and do the right thing while seeing it through.” Those lessons are the backbone of this company.
Experience
What Qualifies Someone to Do This Work?
Age 18
Started first business
Entrepreneurship has been a lifelong pursuit, beginning with owning and operating a business before most people enter the workforce.
Career
Firefighter & Paramedic
Served as a firefighter and paramedic, learning to lead under pressure and make critical decisions in high-stakes environments.
Career
Law Enforcement
Served as a police officer and ultimately as police chief, developing leadership, communication, and accountability skills that carry into every project.
Since 1988
Construction & Building
Officially working in construction since high school in 1988 — over 35 years of hands-on experience in DIY projects, new additions, new home construction, and everything in between. The trade was learned by doing it, not watching it.
When a project hits a snag — and they always do — what does your contractor do? Do they disappear, deflect, or dig in? Every role I’ve held has taught me the same thing: the people depending on you don’t need you when things are easy. They need you when things are hard. That’s the standard we hold here.
Our Values
The Lessons That Built This Company
Craftsmanship
What does it mean to do the work right? It means every cut, every joint, every finish is held to the same standard — whether anyone is watching or not. Speed is never the measure. Quality is.
Quality
My uncle Robert said it plainly: "They won't remember how fast you did it, only how well you did it." That's not a slogan. It's the standard we hold on every job, every time.
Integrity
My uncle Bruce put it this way: "Finish strong. Most contractors fail because they can't follow through — it's not how you are when things go right, it's how you stay in the project and do the right thing while seeing it through." We finish what we start.
What Would It Mean to Work With Someone Who Sees It Through?
Most of our work comes from referrals. People who’ve worked with us send the people they care about. That’s not something you can manufacture — it’s earned one project at a time. If someone sent you our way, we already know something about you. Let’s talk.