We're excited to introduce a new series at Cookson: "Counterbalance: An Open Door Conversation" with our Architectural Design Support and Architectural Product Representative Teams. Each week, you'll meet one of our associates and get to learn a little more about their roles and lives.

Meet John Polchin

Title: Architectural Product Representative for Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Missouri

 

How he describes his role: I build relationships with architects in my area and aspire to assist them with the design of all rolling and sectional door products in their projects. My daily work life consists of visiting architects in person or remotely to review and assist with door design, and hosting AIA lunch and learns (either in person or virtually since the pandemic). My goal is to be there for architects when they need my help and offer any direction that I can to assist them.

Tenure at CornellCookson: I’ve been here 35 years and started in contract engineering before taking on the first architectural design support position. I was also the first person in the marketing department before moving into a segment director role. Later on, I moved to Texas after my kids went to college, where I started as a Regional Manager prior to taking on one of the company’s newly established Architectural Product Rep positions.

Most memorable/favorite project: Early on, I developed one of our first architectural binders that resided in the Division 08 section of many architectural libraries. While in a Segment Director role, I co-worked on our first market research project, and also led our fire product initiatives – helping to design, promote, and develop them.

If John could do another job for just one day: I’d love to be a meteorologist. I’ve always been fascinated by weather. Either that, or a financial planner.

Last TV show watched: “Schitt’s Creek.”

Words of advice for people in industry: You have to have a passion for what you’re doing. Believing in what you’re promoting and selling will get you far. If applicable, spend time in the manufacturing areas of your business to obtain a hands on perspective of the product you sell or promote.

Favorite desk tchotchke: My Varidesk – it keeps me from sitting all day long.

Hobbies: Playing volleyball, I even coached for a while. I enjoy exploring and visiting new places and love the Austin, Texas area live music scene.

Outside of work, John likes to: Take walks and hikes with his wife and dog. He also loves home improvement projects and is a DIY kind of guy. John recently dreamed up an idea and built a rustic fence on his own (pictured below).

If you'd like to get in touch with John about a project in his territory (Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Missouri), feel free to contact him here: clopay.cornellcookson.com/ads-team/contact-john-polchin.

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