Craft Connection: Adrian
Production runs on foresight. As Production Coordinator, Adrian sits at the center of every McKenzie Craft project, from the moment it's awarded through final install. The role is a constant exercise in sequencing: which jobs begin first, how the workforce gets allocated, and how to hold a sixteen-week view while the shop floor moves in real time. He describes it as the center of the funnel, and the description fits.
Adrian came to that role through metal. His father spent fifty years as a tool and die machinist, and Adrian earned a true ground-up apprenticeship in the family business, starting on the saw and working up through manual machining, multi-axis CNC, and architectural metals. That foundation shapes how he sees the work at Craft, where millwork and metalwork meet and precision carries across both.
Tell me a bit about your background—how did you first get into fabrication or this
line of work?
My father has been a tool and die machinist for 50 years now. He had his own business for many years, so when I graduated college I began helping the family business. I had a non traditional start. At first I delivered parts to local clients, picked up material and cut/prepped material on the saw for the machinists and welders. After one year I began learning how to weld and later started manual machining which led into multi-axis CNC machining. I had a true ground up apprenticeship, in machining and architectural metals, that developed the skillset I have today. It is a blessing that working with my family was a fluid process with minimal strife. By the end of my apprenticeship I became a level 3 machinist on manual and CNC machines, mill and lathe, while managing the shop floor and installs for commercial and residential clients throughout Tennessee and the East Coast.
What path brought you to McKenzie Craft?
My wife, McKenzie, and I had our first child in June of 2025. My wife is from South Florida, and after our daughter was born we felt God calling us to move. I found McKenzie Craft through LinkedIn, and was impressed with the level of craftsmanship. After speaking with members of the team and seeing the operation in person I knew this was where I needed to be.
Can you describe your current role here—what do you handle day-to-day?
As Production Coordinator I ensure that all processes of production run smoothly on a daily basis while maintaining a sixteen week view. Deciding what jobs need to begin first and how to allocate our workforce to achieve our goals is my focus. My role is the center of the funnel from being awarded projects through their completion. It is a pleasure to work intimately with all departments as we find solutions to reach our vision.
Are there any materials, tools, or processes you specialize in or particularly enjoy working with?
I get excited when we have metal involved with our millwork. Coming from a metal background it is difficult to not be excited when seeing patina brass and various steel requirements for our projects. The multitude of species and types of wood we work with at Craft require our team to be on top of their game. I am impressed weekly with our capabilities. I enjoy being deeply involved with the systems management and process my role requires.
What’s been a standout project for you at McKenzie Craft so far—and why? Or What type of project are you most looking forward to?
One standout project is JG&C. The mappa burl required combined with the stain is a standout product. The natural wood has a unique look but once the stain has been applied it takes a new life. This project has a quality vintage feel that will be a star in the room once installed.
What do you think sets McKenzie Craft apart from other shops or teams you’ve worked with?
Our craftsmanship and client satisfaction set us apart. The quality of our work completed on time or before its due date speaks volumes. When we are able to pre-build and store (PB&S) that puts us ahead so we are able to pull new work forward. Our team members that directly communicate with clients relay positive feedback from clients that reinforce our greatest differentiator is timely deliveries while maintaining quality through all steps of the building process.
How do you spend your time outside of the workshop? Any hobbies or creative outlets?
When I am not at work my favorite time is spent with my daughter and my wife. Next to that I enjoy rock climbing and have a deep passion for custom cars. My brother, father and I, have built many cars together. I was co-owner of a custom car business with my brother before moving to South Florida. Him and I enjoy all cars, but specifically Japanese cars.
What kind of project or challenge would you love to take on in the future here?
The task I would like to accomplish is further integrating full inventory into our systems. Inventory is all or nothing. Right now we do a good job handling inventory, but i’m excited to further utilize our systems to make improvements for the team in the long run.
Where do you see yourself growing within McKenzie Craft over the next few years?
Over the next few years I see myself stabilizing production through our growth. By nature production always has hot jobs throughout each month, so I am excited to gain more foresight on these hot jobs to better integrate them on top of our workload. Craft is looking to move to a larger location in coming years, so growth within this role has a broad future.
What’s one thing people might not realize about what you do behind the scenes?
Behind the scenes, i’m always a big advocate positive motivation with each team member that results in better cohesion. Everyone already works well together and positive, realistic, ambition takes that further.
