US Ceiling Corp announces retirement of COO Ed Geska

Company founder steps down after 20 years

WEBSTER, N.Y., March 30, 2021— US Ceiling Corp, an award-winning commercial, multifamily and residential interior subcontracting firm, today announced the retirement of chief operations officer, Ed Geska.

Geska, whose construction career spans more than four decades, served as COO since founding US Ceiling Corp in 2001. The company celebrates its 20th anniversary this year and Geska leaves the firm in tenacious shape, as his experience and leadership played a crucial role in its success. Throughout his tenure, Geska was instrumental in achieving unprecedented growth and client retention while improving operational efficiency and promoting innovation.

“US Ceiling has benefited enormously from Ed’s contributions and impressive leadership,” says company president, Melissa Geska. “His expertise, enthusiasm and drive have helped get us where we are today, and I am infinitely appreciative for the lessons and knowledge I gained from working alongside him the past 20 years. Together with the rest of the US Ceiling team, I would like to thank Ed and wish him our best during his retirement.”

“Although I am retiring, I am confident as US Ceiling moves forward under Melissa’s leadership, it will continue being an award-winning and successful company for many years to come,” says Geska. “My memories are full of many beautiful moments that are a source of great pride and I feel blessed to have witnessed the passion and teamwork of a company of ladies and gentlemen that are unrivaled.”

About US Ceiling Corp

Founded in 2001, US Ceiling Corp (usceiling.com) is a NYS Certified M/WDBE subcontracting firm that offers extensive experience in commercial, multifamily and residential construction, including acoustical ceilings and drywall; insulation and air barrier systems; metal stud and wood framing; finished carpentry and general trades; and construction management. The Webster, N.Y.-based firm’s consistent stability and growth stem from the hard work and dedication demonstrated across its expanding footprint, allowing a broad reach of services for local and out-of-town projects. With an unwavering commitment to diversify the construction industry, US Ceiling Corp aims to empower the Rochester community and partners with like-minded organizations, including the Urban League of Rochester’s YouthBuild Program, to provide skilled trades training and employment opportunities.

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US Ceiling Corp celebrates 20 years of growth, innovation and giving back

Award-winning M/WBE subcontracting firm commemorates a history of diverse industry leadership through a legacy of helping construction clients and the community

WEBSTER, N.Y., March 15, 2021—US Ceiling Corp, an award-winning subcontracting firm, is celebrating its 20th anniversary with a series of events, articles, press and video releases planned throughout 2021. The Webster-based M/WBE (minority-/woman-owned business enterprise), which specializes in commercial, multifamily and residential interior construction, opened its doors in March 2001 with three employees and a single focus—acoustical ceiling installation— increasing its staff, scopes of work, client base, project portfolio and capacity year over year.

“This 20-year milestone is a testament to our exceptionally talented and diverse employees, and the incredible client partnerships we’ve cultivated, all of which has sustained and fueled our growth,” says US Ceiling Corp President Melissa Geska. “Our team is committed to delivering a seamless client experience at every interaction and it’s through this dedication that we’ve built a legacy of successful projects over time. I could not be prouder or more humbled by what we’ve accomplished together.”

US Ceiling Corp credits LeCesse Construction for helping the firm get off the ground with its first multifamily contract award: The Mills at High Falls. Since that time, US Ceiling Corp has helped transform the Rochester landscape, performing work on some of the city’s most notable construction projects, including Sibley Square, Tower280 at Midtown, Upper Falls Square and The Nathaniel. In late 2018, US Ceiling Corp received New York State’s highest honor for M/WBEs, the Carey Gabay Award for Excellence and Innovation. The company also expanded its insulation division in 2019, becoming an elite partner and regional dealer/installer for AeroBarrier, a cutting-edge building envelope sealing technology.

As labor shortages began plaguing the construction industry, US Ceiling Corp saw the need to help create and deliver skilled trades training and employment opportunities in and around the Rochester community, particularly among priority populations. The firm formally launched its workforce development program, USC Academy, in 2019 to cross-train and enhance the skills of existing employees, and partner with local organizations to help provide others with exposure to the construction industry. Training modules combine classroom, workshop and field instruction to provide a comprehensive, fully phased learning experience.

“Our success is an outgrowth of our company’s mission, which is to empower lives where we live and work, and provide the best resources to solve our clients’ needs,” says US Ceiling Corp Executive Vice President Gary Black. “We are not only committed to helping our clients, we also believe that giving back is an essential core value and an integral part of how we operate as a company.”

About US Ceiling Corp

Founded in 2001, US Ceiling Corp (usceiling.com) is a NYS Certified M/WDBE subcontracting firm that offers extensive experience in commercial, multifamily and residential construction, including acoustical ceilings and drywall; insulation and air barrier systems; metal stud and wood framing; finished carpentry and general trades; and construction management. The Webster, N.Y.-based firm’s consistent stability and growth stem from the hard work and dedication demonstrated across its expanding footprint, allowing a broad reach of services for local and out-of-town projects. With an unwavering commitment to diversify the construction industry, US Ceiling Corp aims to empower the Rochester community and partners with like-minded organizations, including the Urban League of Rochester’s YouthBuild Program, to provide skilled trades training and employment opportunities.

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US Ceiling proud to provide interior solutions for LECESSE Construction’s Happiness House Phase II Apartments project

February 16, 2021

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced the completion of Happiness House Phase II Apartments, a $9.7 million affordable and supportive housing development in the town of Canandaigua, Ontario County. The complex provides 30 affordable homes for individuals, families and seniors, with nine apartments reserved for individuals who have previously experienced homelessness. Happiness House Phase II Apartments is part of Governor Cuomo’s unprecedented $20 billion, five-year affordable housing plan to provide all New Yorkers with access to safe, affordable housing by building and preserving more than 100,000 units of affordable housing and 6,000 units of supportive housing. The development also builds on the Governor’s overall strategy to revitalize communities and grow the economy across the state. Since 2011, New York State Homes and Community Renewal has invested $639 million in the Finger Lakes region to create or preserve nearly 7,700 affordable homes.

Read NYS’ full press release hereopens PDF file .

US Ceiling promotes Sherry Jackson to vice president of marketing and communications

WEBSTER, N.Y., December 22, 2020—US Ceiling Corp is pleased to announce the promotion of Sherry Jackson to vice president of marketing and communications.

In her new role, Jackson will continue to lead strategic marketing initiatives, as well as drive efforts for brand recognition, advertising, social media and internal and external communications.

“Sherry has proven herself to be an invaluable asset to our company. She performs with the stealth and grace of a racehorse and the force of an army,” says Melissa Geska, president of US Ceiling Corp. “With the passion and diverse mix of communications industry experience she brings, I know she will continue to expand and bolster our marketing and brand initiatives, and we are excited to see her continued leadership.”

Jackson joined US Ceiling in 2018 as director of marketing and business development, helping rebrand the growing minority- and woman-owned (M/WBE) company and successfully launch its AeroBarrier division.

A results-driven leader, Jackson began her communications career as a public affairs associate at the Brooklyn VA Medical Center. Since then, she’s worked locally as an award-winning advertising copywriter and public relations account executive, successfully managing key accounts in the wine and spirits, energy, transportation, aerospace, defense, industrial, and senior health care markets. Jackson made the shift to the construction industry more than six years ago, serving as a corporate communications specialist and diversity program manager. It was then she tapped into her passion for supporting M/WBE firms.

“I feel extremely blessed to reach a point in my career where my ‘heart work’ intersects with my ‘work work,’” says Jackson. “US Ceiling has the magic that only a diverse team can bring and I’m honored to continue helping the company build its incredible capacity.”

Jackson holds a B.A. in communications/journalism from St. John Fisher College and is a co-founder of the Rochester Anti-Racism Action Coalition. She resides in the Webster, N.Y. area.

About US Ceiling Corp

Founded in 2001, US Ceiling Corp (usceiling.com) is a NYS Certified M/WDBE subcontracting firm that offers extensive experience in commercial, multifamily and residential construction, including acoustical ceilings and drywall; insulation and air barrier systems; metal stud and wood framing; finished carpentry and general trades; and construction management. The Webster, N.Y.-based firm’s consistent stability and growth stem from the hard work and dedication demonstrated across its expanding footprint, allowing a broad reach of services for local and out-of-town projects. With an unwavering commitment to diversify the construction industry, US Ceiling Corp is committed to empowering the Rochester community and partners with like-minded organizations, including the Urban League of Rochester’s YouthBuild Program, to provide skilled trades training and employment opportunities.

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Anti-racism statement on behalf of US Ceiling Corp

The tragic events in Minneapolis and countless other incidents of police brutality and injustice across the U.S. have left so many of us feeling outraged and vulnerable. We share your anguish and are devastated that these incidents remain part of an ugly, long-standing history tracing back centuries, where black people in our country have been oppressed, marginalized, discriminated against and murdered because of the color of their skin.

At US Ceiling Corp, we condemn and denounce acts of violence against the black community and believe we must find effective ways to hold law enforcement accountable, so that peace and healing can envelope our communities. We support all people who experience hatred and violence based solely on who they are or what they look like. And while we’ve always worked to foster and promote diversity and celebrate the power of inclusion, we believe that social justice isn’t the responsibility of any one person or company.

We aren’t suggesting we have all the answers; however, as dialogue and demonstrations intensify, we are acutely fixed on renewing our commitment to justice and thinking critically about who we are as members of the Rochester community and beyond.

Please join us on this journey as we work to affect positive change across our footprint and bolster our company’s vision: Empowering communities where we live and work, where safety, quality of life and opportunities are equitable and shared by all.

Now more than ever, we are reminded about our purpose and why pursuit of this anti-racism ideal should be embraced by everyone. Those with power, platform and agency must make room for those who have been socially excluded or marginalized, and allow their voices and influence to help redesign the systems that will result in a noticeable change within our communities. We have much to do. Let’s roll up our sleeves and get to work—together.

-US Ceiling Corp President Melissa James-Geska

US Ceiling promotes Gary Black to executive vice president and Michael Johnston to vice president of operations

WEBSTER, N.Y., June 3, 2019—US Ceiling Corp is pleased to announce the promotions of Gary Black to executive vice president and Michael Johnston to vice president of operations.

Black joined US Ceiling in 2016 as vice president of operations. His contributions to the company have been substantive, as he’s successfully delivered construction projects in all of the markets US Ceiling serves. Black has more than 34 years of experience in all phases of the construction process and will continue utilizing his skills to further enhance the company’s client-service capabilities, concentrating on operations and growth in Western New York. Additionally, he will be available to support projects in other regions when the fit for his talents arises.

“Gary’s contributions to our organization have been invaluable,” says Melissa Geska, president. “His dedication and commitment to our clients, partners and colleagues have played a significant role in US Ceiling’s evolution and as we continue to grow, we will rely on proven professionals like him to support our mission and company objectives.”

Black served in the U.S. Air Force and coaches high school/travel softball in his spare time. He resides in the Ontario, N.Y. area.

A respected leader, Johnston’s construction career spans nearly 20 years and multiple market sectors, including health care, education, commercial and multifamily/mixed-use development. He joined US Ceiling in 2014 as an estimator/project manager and was promoted to chief estimator in 2017.

“During his nearly five-year tenure with US Ceiling, Mike has brought the highest levels of integrity and professionalism to his work, says Ed Geska, chief operations officer. He is a true steward of our company culture and I am confident he will continue playing an integral role in our future growth and success.”

Johnston holds a B.S. in management/finance from St. John Fisher College and is an Ironman Triathlon finisher. He resides in the Webster, N.Y. area.

About US Ceiling Corp

Founded in 2001, US Ceiling Corp (usceiling.com) is a NYS Certified M/WDBE subcontracting firm that offers extensive experience in commercial, multifamily and residential construction, including acoustical ceilings and drywall; insulation and air barrier systems; metal stud and wood framing; finished carpentry and general trades; and construction management. The Webster, N.Y.-based firm’s consistent stability and growth stem from the hard work and dedication demonstrated across its expanding footprint, allowing a broad reach of services for local and out-of-town projects. With an unwavering commitment to diversify the construction industry, US Ceiling Corp is committed to empowering the Rochester community and partners with like-minded organizations, including the Urban League of Rochester’s YouthBuild Program, to provide skilled training and employment opportunities.

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Congressman Morelle to tour shared Rochester hub for skilled trades training and workforce development during National Reentry Week

Partnership between Rochester Urban League’s YouthBuild program and US Ceiling Corp aims to bolster and diversify construction community, and help at-risk young adults and priority populations transition to workforce and fill demand for skilled tradespeople

ROCHESTER, N.Y., April 16, 2019 – On Tuesday, April 23, 2019, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Congressman Joe Morelle (NY-25) will tour a skilled trades training and workforce development center dedicated to serving at-risk young adults and priority populations in the Greater Rochester area. The 4,000 SF space located at 439 Central Avenue is shared by the Urban League of Rochester’s YouthBuild program and Webster-based subcontractor, US Ceiling Corp, whose joint mission is to foster and promote diversity in construction, and empower lives.

“The training center is a vital contribution that continues to bolster the community and cultivate a new generation of skilled trades workers,” says Morelle. “The only way New York State can secure its building future is by enhancing the skill sets of our existing construction workforce and having highly motivated and qualified workers in the pipeline.”

“The nation’s ability to reconnect unemployed and undereducated young adults is essential for economic productivity,” says John Valverde, CEO of YouthBuild USA. “YouthBuild is a movement of young leaders working to make a change in their lives and their communities, and it wouldn’t be possible without continued bipartisan support for the Department of Labor YouthBuild grant program. Thank you, Congressman Joseph Morelle, for demonstrated support of YouthBuild and for believing in the power of our young people.”

“I want to thank Congressman Morelle for his continued commitment to the Rochester community and staunch support of our organization and its programs,” says William G. Clark, outgoing president and CEO of the Urban League of Rochester. We are encouraged by his leadership as we work to help at-risk and underrepresented individuals gain access to hands-on, in-demand training that can transform their lives.”

“Our company’s success is due in large part to the support and opportunities provided us by the Urban League of Rochester’s Small Business Expansion Program and Economic Development Corporation,” says US Ceiling Corp President Melissa Geska. As such, I am deeply committed to not only enhancing the skills and capacity of our diverse workforce through our USC Academy, but also reaching back to help others in our community who want to build a better future for themselves through the skilled trades.”

YouthBuild Rochester serves disadvantaged and at-risk young adults aged 18 to 24. Using a dual-program model that combines academic instruction and skills training, participants work toward the completion of a high school diploma or GED and earn industry-recognized credentials in high-demand construction trades while gaining hands-on experience.

To date, the shared training space has accommodated two YouthBuild cohorts and continues to serve individuals who take part in the Urban League of Rochester’s Urban Apprentice Jobs Training and Reentry programs, as well as US Ceiling Corp employees enrolled in the company’s USC Academy.

About the Urban League of Rochester

The Urban League of Rochester (ULR) was founded in 1965 as an affiliate of the National Urban League and has run the YouthBuild program since 1996. ULR is also an affiliate of the nationally recognized YouthBuild USA Network, which provides support and a learning network for YouthBuild program staff across the country.

About US Ceiling Corp

Founded in 2001, US Ceiling Corp is a NYS Certified M/WDBE subcontracting firm that offers extensive experience in commercial, multifamily and residential construction, including acoustical ceilings and drywall; insulation and air barrier systems; metal stud and wood framing; finished carpentry and general trades; and construction management. The Webster, N.Y.-based firm’s consistent stability and growth stem from the hard work and dedication demonstrated across its expanding footprint, allowing a broad reach of services for local and out-of-town projects. With an unwavering commitment to diversify the construction industry, US Ceiling Corp is committed to empowering the Rochester community and partners with like-minded organizations in the area, including Rochester Urban League’s YouthBuild Program, to provide skilled training and employment opportunities.

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US Ceiling Corp now exclusive regional AeroBarrier dealer/installer

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 28, 2019

US Ceiling Corp now exclusive regional AeroBarrier dealer/installer

NYS Certified M/WDBE firm expands insulation division, offering cutting-edge envelope sealing technology for commercial, multifamily and residential construction

WEBSTER, N.Y., January 28, 2019 – US Ceiling Corp today announced it is now an exclusive regional dealer/installer for AeroBarrier, a first-of-its-kind envelope sealing system that simultaneously measures and seals air leaks, helping builders meet energy codes or achieve passive house requirements in real-time, in just a few hours. The single-component, synthetic, permeable aerosol-applied sealant is GreenGuard Gold certified and was recognized with “Best in Show” and “Most Innovative Building Material Product” awards at the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) 2018 International Builders’ Show. AeroBarrier was also recently featured on PBS’ “This Old House” and DIY Networks’ “Holmes & Holmes” TV shows, and was selected as a 2018 recipient of the HIVE 50 Award, a top industry distinction that honors the people, products and processes that are leading the charge to inspire creativity, improve performance and explore better ways to build.

“Choosing US Ceiling Corp as a regional dealer/install partner makes perfect sense in terms of what we look for,” says AeroBarrier National Director Paul Springer. We share the same culture and business mindset, and feel confident that this partnership will continue enhancing the presence of both of our companies.”

“We’re excited to bring AeroBarrier to our area,” says US Ceiling Corp President Melissa Geska. “As an installation partner, we can offer architects and commercial, residential and multifamily builders a strong value proposition—including an innovative and energy-efficient option to meet code requirements and design goals in terms of cost and performance.”

“When it comes to air sealing and energy enhancement, AeroBarrier removes the guesswork and delivers an efficient, reliable means for constructing high-performance building envelopes,” says US Ceiling Corp Chief Operations Officer Ed Geska. “This added scope of services will also allow us to make a deeper impact in the marketplace and continue growing our customer base and geographic reach.”

About US Ceiling Corp                                                                                    Founded in 2001, US Ceiling Corp (www.usceiling.com) is an M/WDBE subcontracting firm that offers extensive experience in commercial, multifamily and residential construction, including acoustical ceilings and drywall; insulation and air barrier systems; metal stud and wood framing; finished carpentry and general trades, as well as construction management. The Webster, N.Y.-based firm’s consistent stability and growth stem from the hard work and dedication demonstrated across its expanding footprint, allowing a broad reach of services for local and out-of-town projects. With an unwavering commitment to diversify the construction industry, US Ceiling Corp is committed to empowering the Rochester community and partners with organizations in the area, including Rochester Urban League’s YouthBuild Program, to provide skilled training and employment opportunities.

About AeroBarrier
Building upon proven technology invented by the U.S. Department of Energy more than two decades ago, AeroBarrier is a new and innovative envelope sealing system for residential, multifamily and commercial buildings. AeroBarrier can help builders meet any IECC, Energy Star, or passive house requirement more consistently and cost-effectively than traditional envelope sealing methods, guaranteeing the results, whether you need 3ACH50 or passive house requirements. For more information on AeroBarrier, visit www.aeroseal.com/aerobarrier.

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