When you’re young and hungry in the trades, you’re often focused on landing the next job, building your portfolio, and proving your worth through hard work. That was me—like many others in Ohio’s growing construction and masonry industry, I started with my boots on the ground and my eyes on the future.
What I didn’t focus on early enough? Licensing, compliance, and the legal infrastructure that keeps this industry strong.
Back then, I didn’t fully grasp how important that piece was. You figure, “If I do the job right, that’s what matters most.” And yes—craftsmanship does matter. But experience teaches you that the best contractors are also the most responsible, and that includes staying compliant with city, state, and trade regulations.
I learned that the hard way. Years ago, I found myself in a situation where I was doing work without the proper licensing in place. It caught up with me—and I had to learn quickly, get things in order, and take full accountability. Since then, I’ve built my business the right way: licensed, bonded, insured, and committed to doing things by the book and with heart.
Ohio’s development and construction sectors are surging—from residential builds and historic preservation to large-scale commercial and industrial concrete work. Having the right team and doing the right thing matters more now than ever. Whether you’re leading a crew, bidding a job, or laying brick in 90-degree heat—integrity, safety, and professionalism must always come first.
That shift in mindset is what helped shape my companies. It’s also why I’m passionate about mentoring young tradespeople: because a strong work ethic will get you in the door, but a strong foundation in ethics, compliance, and leadership will keep you there.
If you’re in construction, masonry, or any trade here in Ohio—or anywhere else—here’s my message:
Put your best foot forward. Always. Learn from the hard lessons. Get licensed. Build a team that believes in quality. And never cut corners.
Because at the end of the day, what we build with our hands should reflect the standards we live by.
Justin Curatola
Founder, Curatola Masonry
Columbus, OH-based Masonry Company