Adam Gajowiak

LAING is all about people. We have completed thousands of projects over the years, both big and small, but it’s our people and corporate culture that makes this company great. LAING Stories seeks to highlight the brilliant men and women on our team. This week, our LAING Story is about Adam Gajowiak

What do you do at LAING?

AG: I’m the Sheet Metal Superintendent

What does working for LAING mean to you?

AG: After fifteen years of working here, there isn’t a day that goes by where I’m not proud of this company and the people that work here. Working at LAING provides me with a sense of accomplishment knowing that what I have been taught, through previous employees, and what I can teach to the younger generation, will help this company succeed for years to come.

What is your happiest memory?

AG: The happiest memory that I have at LAING was completing the Painted Rock Winery in Penticton. With that job being one of the first times we had installed ACM Panels, it won the prestigious award of Best Commercial Buildings in North America in 2014. I knew then that LAING was going in the right direction for future projects to come.

Who has had the most impact on your life?

AG: I think that my wife Stacie has had the most impact on my life. Growing up in my hometown, I felt there was no going anywhere. Work was alright but not fun. Stacie had said she was going to university in Kelowna, so I decided to follow her. Of course, we were together, but I needed something more, career-wise. After doing odd jobs, here and there, I took the plunge to join LAING. It wasn’t easy at the start. Physically demanding and long hours summed up my first couple of months at LAING. Stacie had always pushed me to do better and work harder. I wouldn’t be where I am if it wasn’t for her.

What do you want your legacy to be?

AG: I think I want my legacy to prove itself in the quality and workmanship at LAING. Starting from the bottom at LAING to where I am now, there have been many individuals that have taught me ways of installing and fabricating sheet metal that you can’t read in books. I would love to bestow that knowledge to future sheet metal workers. Showing them that having pride in your work is what LAING is all about. 

What’s the biggest challenge you’ve overcome?

AG: I think the biggest challenge that I have overcome is the transition from field worker to Sheet Metal Superintendent. I am a hands-on guy. I love installing, fabricating, and making things “fit”. Becoming Sheet Metal Superintendent at LAING has had its challenges. Knowing how to speak to people and dealing with contractors, architects, and other trades really has strengthened my communication and interactions with people. Knowing how to speak to someone and being able to empathize with them is key in the construction industry as everyone wants LAING as their trade on site.

What’s the best advice you could give to someone?

​​AG: The best advice I would give someone is to stick with it. No matter how hard it may be, the hard work pays off in the long run. Each day may be tough, but in the end, it will pay off.

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