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This year, Cochran & Mann proudly celebrates Tom Shoemaker’s 10th anniversary as a valued member of our team. Since joining in 2014, Tom has brought an unparalleled level of dedication, expertise, and leadership to our projects and our clients.

Honoring a Decade of Dedication

With 45 years of experience in painting, high-performance coatings, and wallcoverings, Tom has played a pivotal role in shaping the success of Cochran & Mann. From overseeing budgets to managing labor and materials, Tom’s ability to execute complex projects sets him apart. His favorite saying, “It is what it is,” perfectly embodies his pragmatic and solutions-driven approach to challenges.

Rising Through the Ranks: A Story of Hard Work and Dedication

Tom’s journey is a testament to hard work and perseverance. Starting in the trades straight out of high school, he worked his way up from field operations to senior management. Prior to joining Cochran & Mann, Tom spent 36 years as the principal of Shoemaker Bros. Painting, where he led projects across commercial, residential, and institutional sectors.

At Cochran & Mann, Tom thrives as Senior Project Manager, managing some of the most prestigious and challenging projects in the region, including:

• Trump Hotel in Washington, D.C.: Completed under an accelerated schedule.
• Cole Field House at the University of Maryland: Delivered across multiple phases.
• Monocacy Elementary School Renovation: Accomplished in just two months.
• High-Security and Historic Projects in D.C.: Successfully navigated weather and logistical challenges to meet rigorous demands.

The Cochran & Mann Difference

Tom describes Cochran & Mann as a family, where teamwork and collaboration are core values. “Everyone knows what’s required to get the work completed and is always willing to step up when needed,” he says.

Our culture is built on mutual respect and a shared commitment to excellence. Tom exemplifies this through his leadership and dedication, fostering an environment where everyone is supported and motivated to achieve their best. “Cochran & Mann expects everyone to do their job, but we’re always here to help when needed,” he adds.

Careers in the Trades: Building Opportunity

Tom’s story is an inspiration for anyone considering a career in the trades. The skilled trades offer unparalleled opportunities for growth and development, as demonstrated by his journey from field operations to senior management.

At Cochran & Mann, we’re passionate about creating pathways for professionals to grow within the industry. From apprenticeships to advanced roles, the trades offer a clear ladder of opportunity for anyone willing to learn and work hard.

The skilled trades offer unique opportunities to build a career while making a tangible impact. Whether you're just entering the workforce, looking for a career change, or seeking professional stability, the trades provide a pathway to success.

Hands-On Skill Development

Working in the trades means mastering practical, valuable skills that are always in demand. From mastering techniques in painting and high-performance coatings to specializing in complex wallcovering installations, tradespeople develop expertise that sets them apart. These skills can’t be outsourced or replaced, making them indispensable across industries.

Career Growth

The trades offer one of the clearest paths for advancement. Many industry leaders, like Tom Shoemaker, started in entry-level positions and worked their way up to senior roles. With a combination of hard work, continued learning, and hands-on experience, it’s possible to climb the career ladder and take on management positions, lead high-profile projects, or even start your own business.

Job Stability and Security

Trades are the backbone of industries like construction, commercial development, and property management. The demand for skilled workers is growing, with new infrastructure projects and renovations happening constantly. This demand ensures job stability, offering a level of security that few other career paths can match.

Rewarding Work

One of the most fulfilling aspects of a career in the trades is the satisfaction of seeing your work come to life. Whether it’s transforming a historic building, completing a high-profile commercial project, or enhancing a community space, your efforts have a visible and lasting impact. This sense of accomplishment fuels pride and motivation in your craft.

High Earning Potential

The skilled trades are not only fulfilling but also financially rewarding. With many roles offering competitive wages and opportunities for overtime, it’s possible to achieve financial security while doing work you enjoy.

A Future-Proof Career

As industries evolve, skilled trades continue to be essential. New technologies may enhance tools and techniques, but the expertise of a tradesperson will always remain at the heart of the work. Choosing a career in the trades ensures you’ll have a future-proof skill set that adapts with the times.

The skilled trades are more than just a job—they're a career with limitless potential. At Cochran & Mann, we’re proud to offer opportunities that help professionals build their futures, just as Tom Shoemaker has done over the past decade. If you're ready to start your journey, there’s no better time to explore the trades!

Looking to the Future

As Tom reflects on his decade at Cochran & Mann, his commitment to excellence remains unwavering. When asked what he enjoys most about his role, Tom says it’s the teamwork and shared purpose. “Everyone here works together to get the job done,” he notes.

Outside of work, Tom enjoys spending time with his family, cars, relaxing at the beach, and watching sports. His dedication to balancing work and personal life inspires his colleagues and reflects the values of Cochran & Mann.

As we celebrate Tom’s contributions, we look forward to many more years of success together. Tom, thank you for being an integral part of the Cochran & Mann family!

Join the Cochran & Mann Team

If you’re inspired by Tom’s story and are interested in building a career in the skilled trades, Cochran & Mann could be the place for you. Explore opportunities to grow, learn, and lead in an environment that values your contributions.

Learn more about our culture and open positions here.

About Cochran & Mann
Cochran & Mann is a family-owned business specializing in paint and wall coverings for commercial, industrial, and residential buildings. Though we’ve grown significantly since 1990, we remain a family-owned-and-operated business guided by transparency, reliability, responsiveness, craftsmanship, and loyalty principles.