Category: Company News

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US Ceiling Corp promotes Amie Maloney to company controller

Maloney also appointed to firm’s esteemed executive leadership team

ROCHESTER, N.Y., January 4, 2024—US Ceiling Corp, an award-winning social impact construction firm, is pleased to announce the promotion of Amie Maloney to company controller and executive leadership team member.

In her new position, Maloney will play a pivotal role in overseeing US Ceiling Corp’s financial operations, guiding strategic financial decisions and the firm’s fiscal responsibility and growth. As a key member of the firm’s executive leadership team, she will contribute her insights and expertise to high-level decision-making processes, ensuring that financial considerations are integrated seamlessly into US Ceiling Corp’s overall business strategy. Maloney joined US Ceiling Corp in late 2022 as accounting administrator and was promoted to business operations manager in 2023.

“We are thrilled to announce Amie’s well-deserved promotion to company controller,” says US Ceiling Corp President Melissa James-Geska. “She has a keen understanding of our company’s financial landscape and her dedication to maintaining our financial integrity and developing financial strategies will play a crucial role in steering us toward continued success in an ever-evolving market. This promotion and elevation to our executive leadership team not only recognizes Amie’s accomplishments, it reinforces US Ceiling Corp’s commitment to honoring diverse experiences and cultivating top-tier talent within our organization.”

Maloney studied science and liberal arts at Monroe Community College and holds professional certifications for medical billing and coding. She is also a notary public and co-founder of “Jeeps for Jake,” an annual memorial Jeep ride honoring her late son, with all proceeds benefitting Mary Cariola Children’s Center.                                                                 

About US Ceiling Corp
Based in Rochester, N.Y., with a growing presence in Ithaca, US Ceiling Corp (usceiling.com) is a social impact contractor who specializes in interior commercial, multifamily and residential construction. Now in its 23rd year, the award-winning NYS Certified MWBE firm is committed to diversifying the construction industry and empowering lives. People-focused and purpose-driven, US Ceiling partners with like-minded organizations to provide skilled trades training and employment opportunities—helping people build economic self-reliance and inclusive, equitable communities that thrive.

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Bull’s Head revitalization team to unveil project updates in public presentation

DevelopROC invites community members to an information session on January 22; Zoom meeting option available for those who can’t attend in person

ROCHESTER, N.Y., January 2, 2024—DevelopROC, the dedicated team behind the transformative Bull’s Head Revitalization project, today announced a public presentation scheduled for January 22, 2024. The event aims to bring together community members for a progress update.

Event Details:
Date: January 22, 2024
Time: 6 to 8 p.m.
Location: St. Mary’s Campus, 89 Genesee Street, First Floor Meeting Room
(Free parking is available in the St. Mary’s Campus parking garage)
Click here for Zoom meeting link; Meeting ID: 835 3206 6081; Passcode: 278525

The Bull’s Head Revitalization project represents years of neighborhood-based planning driven by a strong commitment from residents and other stakeholders, and the City of Rochester to catalyze redevelopment in a community that has experienced significant disinvestment over several decades. DevelopROC is actively working toward restoring the livability and vibrancy of the Bull’s Head area. The information session will feature key members of DevelopROC, who will outline project milestones and future plans, as well as provide community members an opportunity to engage with the team.

“Public input is critical as we reimagine a future for Bull’s Head. It will once again become a vibrant and hope-filled neighborhood, and will overcome its history of disinvestment,” says Rochester Mayor Malik D. Evans. “The partners that make up DevelopROC have a proven track record for meaningful redevelopment in cities with challenged neighborhoods. These partners, along with residents, have an incredible opportunity to bring Bull’s Head back to life.”

“DevelopROC believes in the power of community collaboration and recognizes the importance of keeping the public informed about ongoing initiatives that shape the local landscape,” says Melissa James-Geska, DevelopROC co-founder and president of USC [US Ceiling Corp], a Rochester-based award-winning MWBE social impact contractor committed to diversifying the construction industry and providing skilled trades training and equitable employment opportunities. “This event allows community members to be part of the conversation and contribute to the continued success of the Bull’s Head Revitalization project.”

“The public presentation on January 22 is a testament to our commitment to transparency and collaboration. It’s not just an update on the Bull’s Head Revitalization project; it’s a shared conversation about our collective vision for a vibrant future,” says Dennis Pemberton, DevelopROC co-founder and executive managing partner of Florida-based The Dawson Company, a second-generation African-American-owned company and leader in urban multifamily and urban mixed-use development that has been at the forefront of breaking down barriers for African-Americans in real estate for more than five decades.

“Our team is fueled by a deep commitment to create lasting positive change,” says Brian Murray, DevelopROC co-founder and CEO of Philadelphia-based Shift Capital, a neighborhood investment group who executes real estate projects  and financing strategies that create equitable communities for the long-term. “The public presentation is an opportunity to share our progress and engage with the community we aim to serve.”

Information Session Highlights:

  1. Project milestones – Learn about strides made since the project’s inception.
  2. Community impact – Discover the positive impact the project will have on the local community.
  3. Future plans – See the long-awaited and highly anticipated preliminary rollout of the Bull’s Head Revitalization proposal.
  4. Community engagement – Offer valuable feedback to help shape ongoing revitalization efforts.

All members of the community are encouraged to attend the public presentation. DevelopROC’s presentation will be available to view following the event at developroc.com, along with an online feedback form for those unable to attend.

About DevelopROC
DevelopROC is a diverse collaboration that unites a wealth of expertise in development, construction and placemaking—complemented by a track record of successfully delivering community-centric projects with a focus on equity. Together, the DevelopROC team shares a collective vision dedicated to prioritizing people and fostering thriving communities by creating dynamic places and spaces.

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Rochester Business Journal Announces 2023 Elevating Women Honorees

News Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                             

CONTACT: Donna Nupp

EMAIL: dnupp@bridgetowermedia.comcreate new email

Rochester, N.Y., August 11,2023 — Rochester Business Journal has selected US Ceiling Corp as a 2023 Elevating Women honoree.

The Elevating Women awards shine a light on companies and organizations that have demonstrated tangible efforts and documented results in supporting and empowering women in New York. Nominated companies are judged on documented hiring and promoting of women; leadership positions held by women; advocacy for the cause of women internally and externally; and efforts to cultivate the next generation of women professionals.

Elevating Women honorees were selected by the editors of the Rochester Business Journal.

“The organizations being honored by the 2023 Elevating Women awards are committed to advancing women in the workplace. They know the value of recruiting, hiring, promoting and mentoring women,” said Suzanne Fischer-Huettner, managing director of BridgeTower Media/Rochester Business Journal. “In addition, they recognize the importance of women on their board and in the C-Suite and work to combat inequality. We at the Rochester Business Journal are pleased to congratulate this year’s honorees.”

The winners will be honored at a cocktail reception and awards celebration in conjunction with the Women’s Leadership Summit on Sept. 28 at the Joseph A. Floreano Rochester Riverside Convention Center, 123 East Main Street in Rochester. A general networking reception starts at 4:30 p.m. with the awards program at 5:15 p.m. The event hashtag is #RBJevents.

Attendance is limited. Honorees and sponsors get the first chance to secure tables. Sponsorship includes a table for guests, multimedia marketing, logo usage and more. To secure a sponsorship, contact Darice Dixon at ddixon@thedailyrecord.comcreate new email.

Winners will be profiled in a special supplement that will be inserted into the Sept. 29 issue of the Rochester Business Journal and will be available online at RBJ.net.

The Social Media Red Carpet Sponsor is American Packaging Corporation. For more information and updated sponsorship information about the Rochester Business Journal’s 2023 Elevating Women, visit RBJ.net.

About the Rochester Business Journal

The Rochester Business Journal has served as the leading source of business news and information in Rochester, N.Y., for 36 years. In addition to its website, RBJ.net, and weekly print publication, the Rochester Business Journal publishes more than 25 special products a year including Book of Lists, Explore Greater Rochester, RBJ 75 and Schools Report Card. The Rochester Business Journal also hosts 11 annual events to recognize excellence and provide leadership opportunities. Those events include Forty Under 40, Icon Honors, Women of Excellence and Reader Rankings. In addition, the Rochester Business Journal facilitates virtual panel discussions bringing local experts from the business community together to discuss current topics and trends. Its Digital Marketing Solutions helps customers with social media, search engine marketing and optimization, retargeting, email marketing and more. The Rochester Business Journal and its sister publication, The Daily Record, which covers law and real estate in Western New York, are part of BridgeTower Media, the leading provider of B2B information, research, events and marketing solutions across more than 25 U.S. markets and industries.

2023 Elevating Women Honorees

Bivona Child Advocacy Center

Coordinated Care Services Inc. (CCSI)

Disability EmpowHer Network Inc.

Dixon Schwabl + Company

Excellus BlueCross BlueShield

First American Equipment Finance

Friendly Senior Living

Girls on the Run of Greater Rochester

Heritage Christian Services

Home Leasing LLC

L3Harris Technologies

LáLew Public Relations

Love for Words

Mower

Quatela Center for Plastic Surgery

Rochester Regional Health

The Bonadio Group

US Ceiling Corp

Women’s Foundation of Genesee Valley (WFGV)

YWCA of Rochester & Monroe County

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US Ceiling Corp President Melissa James-Geska named to RBJ’s Power 30 Construction & Real Estate list two years in a row

Rochester Business Journal today named US Ceiling Corp President Melissa James-Geska as one of its Power 30 Construction & Real Estate list honorees. The annual listing, which recognizes Rochester business leaders who are shaping the local landscape and community, includes a brief Q&A with each power player.

“I am extremely grateful to have earned a spot again this year and deeply appreciative for all the ways the Rochester Business Journal continues to elevate leaders in our community,” says James-Geska.

Now in its 22nd year, US Ceiling is an award-winning, social impact subcontractor committed to diversifying the construction industry and empowering lives. People-focused and purpose-driven, US Ceiling partners with like-minded organizations to provide skilled trade training and employment opportunities—helping people build economic self-reliance and inclusive, equitable communities that thrive.

To view the full Power 30 list, click here. To view James-Geska’s profile, click here.

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US Ceiling Corp President Melissa James-Geska honored by City of Rochester with 2023 MWBE Champion Award

Special award recognizes James-Geska’s exemplary leadership, vision, resilience and the drive to move her organization forward and improve the lives of others

ROCHESTER, N.Y., March 22, 2023—The City of Rochester tonight honored US Ceiling Corp President Melissa James-Geska with the 2023 MWBE Champion Award for breaking barriers and paving the way for other minority- and women-owned businesses in the community. James-Geska is the first MWBE owner in the history of the City of Rochester to earn a major development contract—having been named one of the prime contractor partners for the Bull’s Head Revitalization project in 2021. James-Geska is also chair of the Builders Exchange of Rochester and is the first woman and person of color to serve in such a capacity in the organization’s 135-year history.

James-Geska stressed the importance of community during her acceptance speech, saying, “Let this be a time that we unite and create a common sense of community in Upstate New York. Minority and women-owned businesses must rally together to advocate with a collective voice. In the words of Thomas Paine, ‘It is not in numbers, but in unity that our great strength lies.’ Let us humble ourselves, so that we are open and ready for growth. Let us ask for help when we need it and offer to help when we can.”

Under James-Geska’s leadership, US Ceiling has emerged as an industry force, helping change Rochester’s landscape by working on some of its most notable and transformative construction projects, including Tower280 at Midtown, the Sibley Building and The Nathaniel Apartments. Ever the visionary, in 2020, she launched US Ceiling’s development arm, USC, bringing workforce development and social impact real estate development to projects in Rochester and Ithaca.

James-Geska takes great pride in paying her success forward—continually serving as a role model and mentor, and contributing to various nonprofit organizations that address issues affecting minorities and women. Passionate about bridging the labor gap and promoting diversity in construction, she works to provide practical experience and employment opportunities through her firm’s skilled trades training and workforce development program, USC Academy, which has provided 337,723 hours of paid skills training since its launch in 2019. Since opening its doors in 2001, US Ceiling has created 460 jobs in the Rochester community, helped build 10,807 affordable housing units and made 170 charitable donations to dozens of community-focused organizations.

The evening’s awards event was held at the Strathallan as a kick-off to the City’s inaugural Upstate NY MWBE Conference, which will take place over the next two days.

About US Ceiling Corp
Founded in 2001, US Ceiling Corp (usceiling.com) is a social impact subcontractor that specializes in interior commercial, multifamily and residential construction. Now in its 22nd year, the award-winning NYS Certified MWBE firm is committed to diversifying the construction industry and empowering lives. People-focused and purpose-driven, US Ceiling partners with like-minded organizations to provide skilled trades training and employment opportunities—helping people build economic self-reliance and inclusive, equitable communities that thrive.

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US Ceiling Corp recognized as a Level Up Champion by RMAPI

Rochester-Monroe Anti-Poverty Initiative program celebrates organizations whose starting wage is $15 or higher

WEBSTER, N.Y., July 8, 2022—Rochester-Monroe Anti-Poverty Initiative (RMAPI) today recognized US Ceiling as a Level Up Champion. The program celebrates employers who have made the decision to increase their starting wage, showing that doing the right thing is part of their company’s DNA.

“Making this pledge to RMAPI is an easy decision,” says US Ceiling President Melissa James-Geska. “We increased our minimum base salary from $15 to $16 per hour in June of 2021, as it aligns with our longstanding commitment to invest in our employees. Our people, who are the soul of our organization, remain our greatest asset.”

The Level Up Champion distinction signifies to current and potential employees that an organization is committed to fighting poverty. RMAPI recognizes these organizations and hopes to inspire other employers to commit to a $15/hour starting wage and be part of the wider movement to lift the entire Rochester community.

“We are proud to be among many other organizations who are recognized as a Level Up Champion and hope other employers answer RMAPI’s call to action,” says James-Geska.

To learn more about Rochester-Monroe Anti-Poverty Initiative and become a Level Up Champion, visit www.levelupchampion.org.

About US Ceiling Corp
Founded in 2001, US Ceiling Corp (usceiling.com) is a social impact subcontractor that specializes in interior commercial, multifamily and residential construction. Now in its 21st year, the award-winning NYS Certified M/WBE firm is committed to diversifying the construction industry and empowering lives. People-focused and purpose-driven, US Ceiling partners with like-minded organizations, including the Urban League of Rochester and ITEC (Isaac Training & Education Center) to provide skilled trades training and employment opportunities—helping people build economic self-reliance and inclusive, equitable communities that thrive.

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US Ceiling proud to provide interior solutions for LECESSE Construction’s Zion Hill Senior Apartments project

Governor Kathy Hochul yesterday announced completion of a $13.5 million affordable and supportive housing development in southwest Rochester. Zion Hill Senior Apartments features 45 affordable apartments for households aged 55 and older, with seven apartments reserved for residents in need of supportive services to help them live independently. 

“Access to safe, affordable, and supportive housing is critical to helping seniors remain healthy, active and engaged in their communities,” Governor Hochul said. “Zion Hill Senior Apartments provides a comfortable and secure environment, while complementing transit-oriented revitalization efforts in Rochester. Developments like this will ultimately help us achieve a greener and more equitable New York for the future.”  

Read NYS’ full press release hereopens PDF file .

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US Ceiling promotes Laura West to vice president of business development

WEBSTER, N.Y., February 2, 2022—US Ceiling Corp, an award-winning social impact subcontractor, is pleased to announce the promotion of Laura West to vice president of business development.

In her new position, West aims to strengthen existing client relationships, promote US Ceiling’s role as a long-standing trusted resource and identify emerging gaps or opportunities in the marketplace. She will also work to enhance the firm’s corporate strategy in conjunction with its executive leadership team.

“Laura continues to build momentum within our company, including growing our people, our client base and opening new channels of revenue,” says US Ceiling President Melissa Geska. “She is committed to raising the bar at every turn to establish a truly differentiating experience in terms of creating and cultivating construction relationships. Her ability to significantly impact our organization by combining her people skills and her purpose-driven spirit makes us a best-in-class team capable of supporting and exceeding our industry’s needs.”

West brings more than 30 years of business and corporate strategy experience, including community outreach, marketing, real estate and program development. She joined US Ceiling in 2018 as director of USC Academy, helping launch [and develop curricula for] the company’s workforce development program, which is designed to cross-train and enhance the skills of existing field staff and provide priority populations in the Rochester community with skilled trades training and employment opportunities. In late 2020, West stepped into the role of director of human resources, overseeing employee onboarding and annual reviews.

“I am very excited to take on my new role,” says West. “The breadth of construction expertise combined with the investments in our people and work scopes position the company for significant growth potential. I am eager to focus on client engagement and strategic initiatives as we continue to provide our customers with successful project outcomes and exceptional service.”

West holds a B.A. in psychology from the University of Rochester and is an SOS (Save our Sodus) board member and co-founder of the Rochester Business Hall of Fame. She is a former board member for the American Red Cross and Habitat for Humanity, and has served as a United Way volunteer. West is a local real estate investor and NYS licensed salesperson, working in commercial and residential sales for Coldwell Banker. She resides in the Webster area.

About US Ceiling Corp

Founded in 2001, US Ceiling Corp (usceiling.com) is a social impact subcontractor that specializes in interior commercial, multifamily and residential construction. Now in its 21st year, the award-winning NYS Certified M/WBE firm is committed to diversifying the construction industry and empowering lives. People-focused and purpose-driven, US Ceiling partners with like-minded organizations, including the Urban League of Rochester and ITEC (Isaac Training & Education Center) to provide skilled trades training and employment opportunities—helping people build economic self-reliance and inclusive, equitable communities that thrive.

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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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