Ken Schirripa, who joined Rock Brook earlier this year as an executive director, leads the firm’s low-voltage team in servicing clients with their technology infrastructure needs. He brings more than 25 years of expertise and is the former CEO and president of Commsult, where he and his team successfully managed the design and engineering of IT, security and AV systems for clients in a variety of sectors including corporate workplace, financial, health care, pharmaceutical, education, hospitality and entertainment.
When you were thinking about joining Rock Brook to lead the IT/AV and Security division, what factors did you consider?
Ken Schirripa: One of the most important factors I considered was Rock Brook’s reputation in the industry — I needed it to be 100 percent in line with my 30-year reputation. Greg DeMarco, PE, founded the company nearly 20 years ago and has successfully maintained over an 80 percent repeat client base. His long-term vision for the company’s growth and his ability to motivate and inspire his employees is very much how I have managed my own team. I was very impressed by Rock Brook’s overall work ethic and integrity, which are just some of the commonalities we both share. I am excited to join forces with such a talented group of engineering professionals to help propel the growth of the company.
How did your existing clients react to you and your staff making the shift to Rock Brook?
KS: Every one of our Fortune 100/500 clients was excited to follow our team. One of the biggest advantages in doing so has been the capability to offer MEP/FP engineering services to our existing clients in addition to the IT/AV and Security services we have always provided. The continuity of our team has always been important to our clients and the move to Rock Brook has not changed this, but only strengthened it.
What are your long-term goals for your new position at the firm?
KS: One of my immediate goals is to engage with clients, both existing and new, to offer a comprehensive suite of MEP/FP/IT/AV and Security capabilities. The longer-term vision is to position the firm to achieve steady growth across all industry sectors as well as expand reach into new markets and territories.
What is some consistent feedback you have received regarding the services you provide your clients?
KS: One of the most consistent and notable comments we receive from clients is with regard to how we approach our drawings. We believe in providing precise details upfront so that it limits questions during the bidding and construction process. This saves our clients both time and money, not only during the initial stages, but also after a project is awarded and construction commences. We always consider how inconsistent drawings can lead to change orders during construction. Being told we have a reputation for having the least amount of RFIs and change orders from contractors is very rewarding.
How has your team adapted to the move to Rock Brook?
KS: My team has seamlessly integrated into Rock Brook’s culture in just a few short months. With the additional horsepower behind the team, it’s like we added a turbo charger to our already powerful engine. I am confident that we will accomplish many great project success stories in the future.
New Jersey
(732) 438-1600
20 South Middlesex Ave., Suite B
Monroe Township, NJ 08831
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Pennsylvania
(267) 519-3439
8 Penn Center
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