Top of the List Fourth annual CCR Awards spotlights industry’s leading men
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n an industry driving fast-forward into its efforts to diversify the scope of its leadership mantles, there is a contingent of men leaders stepping into the spotlight. In our fourth annual CCR Awards, Commercial Construction & Renovation offers a glimpse into several of the industry’s leaders. Thanks to their creative, insightful and innovative leadership, the industry continues to move headstrong into the future. Each was nominated by their peers.
Born in the Staffordshire heartland of Stoke-on-Trent England, Andy Pennington descended from generations of potters. There was little surprise that his career would fall into the world of ceramics. As a teenager, he made samples for a pioneering tile distributor and graduated to merchandising tile across all corners of the UK’s retail industry. Introduced to the installation of floor and wall tile methodology at a young age, becoming literate with trade practices, Andy became a founding member of the UK NTA – National Tile Association, which was formed as an amalgamation of NMTFA – The National Master Tile Fixers Association, NATD – The National Association of Tile Distributors and BCTC –British Ceramic Tile Council. Today, these bodies constitute The Tile Association TTA. After 25-plus years in the industry, Andy joined the management team of PORCELANOSA USA, where he works as National Sales and Marketing Director for the New York-based company. Committed to the innovation and expansion of ceramic and hygienic surfacing, Andy promotes the company’s products across multiple sectors, including healthcare and hospitality. He also co-produces the “Hotel Design Podcast” and “Healthcare Interior Design 2.0 Podcast.” Andy Pennington National Sales and Marketing Director Porcelanosa
Vaun Podlogar Founder/Owner/CEO State Permits Inc.
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While working in the permit division of general contractor State Construction in the early 1990s, Vaun Podlogar witnessed first-hand the time-consuming process of obtaining permits. Recognizing the need for a more efficient approach to navigate bureaucratic hurdles and prevent costly delays, he was driven to find a solution. In 1994, State Construction underwent a significant restructuring, separating the permit division into its own entity: State Permits Inc (SPI). This gave Vaun the opportunity to put his vision to work. His ability to revolutionize the industry swiftly earned him a reputation as a trusted partner for clients seeking a personalized permit strategy. Today, under Vaun’s leadership, State Permits and PERMIT.COM play a crucial role in the market by providing top-notch commercial permit process management—specializing in commercial and retail remodels and rollouts, multi-site programs, signage due diligence, solar permits, licensing, and other services. What began as a one-man operation serving Wisconsin has evolved into a thriving small business serving clients across North America. Vaun’s commitment to delivering exceptional service is a fundamental value woven into the very fabric of his company’s culture, where he cultivates an environment where client satisfaction is at the core of every action.
COMMERCIAL CONSTRUCTION & RENOVATION — ISSUE 11/12, 2023