Val DeCesare

About Val

Val joined the company in 1993. He has the mind of an accomplished engineer who is able to solve complex riddles previously thought understandable only to those few gifted…. well…. it just seems like there is nothing that he can’t build. With a “whatever it takes to get the job done” approach, Val sets the standard for some of our up and coming leaders.

On his own time

  • A volunteer in support of the area Boy Scouts for several years, these Scouts proudly hold many earned awards for achievements.
  • Avid Sportsman and Outdoorsman, if you want to find him in the summer months look for him in the Schroon Lake area, and if you can’t see him, wait a moment and you might hear him – driving his current favorite fast boat.
  • Loves the Adirondacks – enjoys camping, fishing, and hiking with his family.
  • Restores antique boat motors (outboards).

Ben Cangeleri

ABOUT BEN

Ben’s introduction to Schrader and Company occurred during his college years, when his friend Silas, a member of the company’s founding family, recruited him for a part-time position. It was during these most formative years that Ben developed a keen interest in learning more about the rigors of leading a small business.

After graduating from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Ben spent 2 years working for a commercial construction company in Boston.  Although a great experience, the appeal of small business leadership and the opportunity to plant roots in upstate NY was just too strong.  Ben rejoined Schrader and Company full time in 2004.

Today Ben ensures that the company pipeline is healthy, that our design and project planning systems are effective and efficient, and that the professionals who make this company what it is, have the support and “tools” they need to do their jobs well.  Ben and Silas together set the vision and long-term strategy for the company and are committed every day to client satisfaction and future business success.

ON HIS OWN TIME

  • Ben greatly enjoys reflecting back on the pre-kids era when he had many of his own hobbies. Now…
  • He spends most of his time living vicariously through his two wonderful and highly active children. Always looking forward to the next sporting event, concert, play, scout event, and more.
  • Ben relishes spending quality time with his wife but also enjoys partnering with her for all the crazy, demanding, and at times exhausting aspects of “adulting”.
  • Ben enjoys music, travel, sipping a well made Old Fashion, camping, and volunteering.

Austin Sullivan

About Austin

Austin came to us on the strong recommendation of his technology teacher at Saratoga Springs High School, where he had distinguished himself as a talented craftsman with a passion for the industry. Joining us in 2017, Austin has been absorbing knowledge and gaining skills, learning and practicing all the complex, fun and challenging aspects of remodeling.  He is a joy to work with, and we are happy to have him as part of the team.

On his own time

  • Enjoys snowboarding
  • Paying the drums with his friends
  • Spending time in the Adirondacks camping and hiking

Nick Smith

  • Nick, his wife, and two children have a passion for the outdoors.
  • This spring Nick is looking forward to enjoying time with his family and teaching his son and daughter to fish!
  • Nick is also involved with The Saratoga Men’s Baseball League.