JKMuir provides construction inspection services as a WBE. Our inspector Mike Funari has been in the business for the last 38 years. He has overseen both wastewater treatment plant upgrade projects as well as buried infrastructure as part of water distribution systems and wastewater system projects. Below is a quick interview with Mike:

1. How did you get started in the construction industry?

Mike: It has been a part of my family business. My father was a superintendent, I was born into this industry. So it feels like a natural fit to be part of building public infrastructure.

2. What’s the best part of your work and being a part of the construction industry?

Mike: All of the details of a project come together and develop into something special, and something that everyone involved can be proud of.

3. What’s the biggest challenge you have faced in your work?

Mike: Learning the new aspects of construction with each project. Coming from a civil engineering background and expanding my experience to include process and mechanical fields of work has been challenging and rewarding.

4. What is the most important lesson(s) that you have learned in the field?

Mike: To stay calm and composed.   Schedule delays, and change orders can all put a lot of strain on folks on the job site and in the office- being a calm communicator is key.

5. What advice would you give to someone interested in pursuing a career in this industry?

Mike:  Solidify your theoretical knowledge initially by studying the appropriate courses and follow that with all the field experience you can get. It is critical to develop skills to handle unexpected situations. Even with detailed planning and well thought out designs the unanticipated can still occur. These issues must be handled quickly and effectively in the field.