Joe Cristaldi

Joe’s engineering background has fueled his passion for functionality. He thoroughly enjoys using his skills to build environments where families thrive. When Joe isn’t managing construction projects, he enjoys spending time with his family playing “jump get me.”

How did you arrive at COCOON, what path brought you here?

The Payson’s and I knew each other from church. Chris knew I had a background in mechanical engineering, and I was looking for a place where I could grow and be appreciated for my skills. When Chris approached me about joining the team, I thought it would be a great opportunity and I accepted.

Who have you worked with in the past? And what have you done for them?

DFT Inc. – Engineering Manager – 4 Years

Engineering the future of DFT products through smart design, innovative technological use, and passion!

Created a 3D printing in-house solution for product development and quick turn investment casting to meet various customer needs.

Hired, developed, and inspired the engineering team to work together and solve the many problems that arise in the day to day whirlwind of work, and to enjoy it.

Crazy Aaron Enterprises – Factory Manager – 2 years

Responsible for all Manufacturing and Work Order fulfillment operations as well as manufacturing support functions: engineering, quality control, planning, scheduling, forecasting, and maintenance in a fast-growing, dynamic, and positive work environment.

Within the first year increased production and capacity by a significant percentage using new processes, procedures, and select equipment without adding personnel.

Robert Filter Group

Director of Research & Development / Production Engineering – Media & Coatesville, PA

Responsible for product development activities from concept to production, installation and operation, and preparation of technical and marketing data for utilization by Sales, Engineering, Production, and Service staff.

Project Engineer – Darby & Media, PA

Managed multiple projects pertaining to the design and installation (2D & 3D) of Roberts patented products into new and existing water and wastewater facilities countrywide. Worked with vendors and subcontractors to generate submittal packages for approval. I configured the O&Ms for each project including detailed bills of materials. I inspected vendor-supplied equipment prior to its arrival on-site for adherence to job requirements. When problems arose I worked to resolve any and all design/engineering related items that negatively affected the success of the project.

Working with the R&D efforts to develop Roberts products I calculated or simulated (CFD software) various types of underdrains and air systems. This also included designing, setting up, running physical tests, compiling data, and organizing the data for inner departmental product knowledge. It was also used for new business opportunities.

Overseeing the company ERP software system since 2008 I maintain it with routine updates and backups. I set up and train new hires in Engineering and support those in all other departments. I consult with production, accounting, engineering, estimating, and service on proper use and procedural issues so that all parties could understand and benefit from the software.

How long have you been doing what you do?

All of my life – ever since I was little, I was building things. Officially though, I was 19 when I started working construction with my uncle.

What are you known for professionally, what do you have a knack for?

I have always been intrigued by how things work. When I was a kid, I would take things apart and try to figure out how it did what it did, and why it did that. When I couldn’t figure it out, I would keep trying until I eventually succeeded – and I love that feeling.

Today I still love figuring things out. I have a knack for solving difficult problems and I try always approaching them with a can-do attitude.

What’s the one problem you are best at solving for your clients? What do your ideal clients say about you?

I believe that my ideal clients would say that I am hardworking, determined, and invested.

What are you most passionate about professionally? What most excites you about your work & the contribution you can make?

Having a background in engineering, I am passionate about how things function. I also thoroughly enjoy using my skills to build environments where families can thrive – not just live. I am very excited to be a part of a team where we can work together to create an incredible remodeling experience.

What are you passionate about personally? What do you really enjoy? What can’t you stop talking about?

I really enjoy pushing the limits and being creative. I try to instill these values in my children and encourage them to never be afraid of failure because that’s how you learn. Because I enjoy creating something out of nothing – one of my most recent passions is 3D printing.

Where can we find you when you’re not working? What’s your favorite way to spend a weekend or a Sunday afternoon?

You can find me playing “jump get me” with my kids – this is a trampoline game that we made up. Here is how you play: we jump each other as high as we can and then we tackle and tickle each other. Other than that, I love talking with my wife and enjoying the home we created together. Especially the time we spend sitting on the deck.

Where did you grow up and why aren’t you there now?

I grew up in Springfield Township in Montgomery County. But, I married a Chester County girl and we moved to West Chester to enjoy a more spacious area.

In the end, how do you want to be remembered?

I want to be remembered as someone who loved well – despite my faults and frailties. That I cared about my kids and sought to do what I could to guide them in life and help them reach their full potential.

Any volunteer activities you’re crazy about?

I have volunteered as a Bayard Rustin High School wrestling coach for 12 years.

I love the sport because it challenges you mentally, physically, and emotionally. I enjoy helping the kids I work with understanding that even when things are hard you must persevere – persistence brings prosperity.

Any nonprofits you love, & why?

Women of Faith Alliance is a non-profit that assists women in providing for their families through entrepreneurship. They provide small loans, education, and accountability to enable families in Kenya to be released from both spiritual and physical poverty.

Any awards or medals, or even medallions? Personal okay, too.

It would be my wrestling career; starting in 8th grade, getting 3rd at PA states my senior year, getting a D1 college scholarship, and being a 3x national qualifier.

What would be impossible for you to give up?

Using my brain and critical thinking – I am always asking questions and searching for the truth.

What is your favorite Movie?

The Incredibles – Shawshank Redemption

What is your favorite TV Show or Series?

Revolution

What is a personal favorite quote?

“He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep, to gain what he cannot lose.” – Jim Elliot

What is your favorite restaurant?

Chipotle

What is your favorite vacation spot?

Pocono Mountains – or somewhere secluded with nature and the opportunity for exploring – but really anywhere with my family.