Chesapeake Glazing President Mike O’Neal joins From the Fabricator to discuss his journey through the industry and the challenges shaping its future.
There’s no shortage of conversations about the next advancement in glass technology. But there’s another question our industry needs to keep asking: Who are we preparing to install it, understand it, and lead the next generation of glazing professionals?
For Chesapeake Glazing President Mike O’Neal, the opportunities within the skilled trades are personal. His career began at the ground level of the glass industry, eventually leading him to the role of President.
Mike recently joined Max Perilstein on the From the Fabricator podcast for a conversation about his career, workforce recruitment, mental health, emerging products, and the future of commercial glazing.
A Career Path Worth Investing In
One of the greatest opportunities in the glazing industry is also one we need to communicate more effectively: a career in the trades doesn’t have to stop where it starts.
But attracting the next generation requires more than telling young people that construction offers good careers. We have to demonstrate what those opportunities actually look like.
At Chesapeake Glazing, our registered apprenticeship program is one way we’re investing in that future. By combining education with hands-on experience and mentorship, we’re creating opportunities for individuals to develop the skills needed to build lasting careers in our industry.
And as Mike’s own career demonstrates, those opportunities can extend well beyond the field.
Building an Industry People Want to Stay In
Recruitment is only one part of the workforce conversation. Retaining skilled professionals and supporting their well-being are equally important.
That includes recognizing that conversations about mental health belong in construction just as much as conversations about physical safety.
As employers, we have a responsibility to create environments where employees can continue learning, contribute their experience, and feel supported throughout their careers.
After all, developing skilled professionals takes years. Supporting the people behind those skills should remain a priority.
Looking Toward What’s Next
As new glazing products and technologies enter the market, the knowledge required to evaluate, coordinate, and install them continues to evolve.
Innovation creates exciting opportunities, but it also reinforces the importance of technical education and experienced craft professionals.
The industry’s future depends on both: advancing the systems we install and continuing to develop the people responsible for bringing them to life.
We’re grateful to Max Perilstein for inviting Mike to share his experience and contribute to these important industry conversations.
Want to hear more from Mike? Watch his conversation on From the Fabricator, starting at the 29-minute mark, as he shares his journey, industry insights, and perspective on the future of commercial glazing.
