Vice President of Field Operations, Northeast Region | Principal
Antonio (Tony) Mancini joined KBE as a Project Superintendent in 1994, was named Director of Field Operations in 2011, was promoted to Vice President of Field Operations in 2013 and became Principal of the firm in 2017. Tony holds an associate degree in Mechanical Engineering and a bachelor’s in Construction Engineering Technology, both from Central Connecticut State University.
How I ended up in construction:
My dad was always in construction, and by association, I always wanted to be in construction, too. My education has always really focused on the construction and trades industry – I went to W.F. Kaynor Technical High School and continued onto Central Connecticut State University to further my education. Once I really got into it, I felt like I had found my calling.
Best advice I’ve ever received…and given:
My father always said, “Work hard and good things will happen.” He led by example and I tried to follow that lead. My best advice is to always give 100% in whatever you do.
My most memorable project:
I have several projects that really stand out in my mind. When looking back, these projects really fill me with a sense of accomplishment. The SoNo Collection in Norwalk required an intense amount coordination challenges between the tight footprint, site exposure, a Joint Venture partner, and such a large team. It was very exciting to be involved and see it all come together.
The Litchfield Courthouse project included very high-end finishes and involved a collaboration of our design team, end user (judicial department), and our trade contractors working together while still finalizing the design.
W.F. Kaynor is my sentimental project since I graduated from the school. About 20 years to the day later, KBE was awarded the project. It provided a unique sense of pride to go to school there, then go back and work on the improvements for the next generation.
What matters most to me about my work:
First and foremost, the relationships that we build through our work and projects. I also greatly enjoy helping shape people’s lives and careers. It’s great to see them come into their own and become future leaders in both KBE and the construction industry.