Jim Gaudette on Switching to Steel Deck Framing

Mike Mitchell: Tools, Technology and Better Building

Second-generation deck builder Mike Mitchell of Mitchell Construction sits down with us at the NADRA Summit in Clearwater to discuss what it takes to build a more focused, efficient outdoor living business. Mike shares why narrowing his company’s focus helped create better systems, tighter scheduling, and smoother project execution. As an industry writer and contributor to Deck Specialist Magazine, he also talks about the tools and technology shaping today’s deck industry, along with his passion for helping contractors improve their craft and grow stronger businesses.

Joe Matersanti: Building Outdoor Spaces & Reputations

Joe Matersanti of Outdoor Space Builders joins us from the NADRA Summit in Clearwater to talk about building smarter, protecting your reputation, and delivering complete outdoor living solutions.  In this conversation, Joe shares how Fortress® plays a role in their approach, why an informed customer leads to better outcomes, and how staying aligned with proven products helps contractors maintain trust. He compares reputation to a credit score, emphasizing that while it takes time to build, it can be lost quickly without consistent effort and the right partners.

Jim Gaudette on Switching to Steel Deck Framing

Jim Gaudette of Northeast Deck & Black Barn Contracting shares how learning steel deck framing at a masterclass led him to take on a major solo build, leaving wood framing in the past. He explains why he’s committed to higher standards, choosing better jobs, and how education and discipline are shaping his approach to business.

Scott Kelly: Why Steel Deck Framing Is the Future

Scott Kelly reflects on the shift from wood to steel framing, the masterclass movement, and how innovation is reshaping deck construction nationwide. He discusses stability, cost efficiency, and why contractors embracing steel are raising the standard of the industry.

Robin Havasi on Fire-Ready Decks & Building the Future

Robin Havasi reflects on his journey from Sweden to launching a deck-building business in California through adaptability, education, and innovation. He also discusses how fire safety, sustainability, and steel framing are becoming essential parts of modern outdoor construction.