About Me

I am an independent Fire Protection Designer with over 25 years of experience in the construction industry. I am seeking a position as an “As Needed” resource for your company. Although I specialize in the Fire Protection industry, I have been exposed to and operated within several capacities in construction. With a combination of years of experience in construction, a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Management, Hands on Mechanical experience in general construction and automotive fields, and strong computer skills, I believe some of the resources I offer will be an asset.

The services offered can be employed at any time during the process of a project.  These services range from advisement, coordination, drafting and construction management services that are aimed to increase profit, reduce costs, and proactively troubleshoot events to reduce delays. My goal is to increase the image and marketability of my clients one job at a time. I place a strong emphasis on a high level of performance to provide the right job in a timely manner. I see each project as an opportunity to improve my reputation with your company, the General Contractor, Consultants and Steamfitters.

I use the phrase "Old School Drafting with New Technology", because when I started in the trade, I drafted my work on "The Board".  Each drawing carried one's personality in one form or another. As computers began to dominate the construction Industry, I transitioned from the pencil to the mouse, while keeping with the traditions used on paper ... fitters can still recognize my drawings. My focus still has not shifted from being a designer, and not a CAD operator ... the line is a pipe and it has to work regardless how it is drawn. In recent years I have made another transition into the 3 Dimensional world. BIM has advanced many projects to a different level. With my services, a company can compete for BIM projects without the investment in software and training of personnel.

I have worked primarily in the New York City market, with some exceptions in Long Island and New Jersey, since 1988. Although I pride myself on strong drafting skills, I am equally proficient in the codes that govern Fire Protection. I have a solid understanding of  the Department of Buildings and other agencies specific to the City. I am capable of providing a code layout of Standpipe and Sprinkler Systems, whether the systems fall under the new 2008 code or they are to be retrofitted under the 1968 code. I hold a Class B Master Fire Suppression Piping Contractor's certificate (shelved license) and I hold a NICET Certification.

I started in 1988, and I was trained by well educated skilled draftsmen, code consultants, businessmen and steamfitters that were veterans in the field of Fire Protection. My education into the industry was diverse and meaningful. While I am perpetually learning, I hold the early teachings and lessons learned in high regard and strive to uphold their standards everyday while setting my own ever higher.

I look forward to working with you.

Sincerely,

Ralph Padula

President