The VTF Team

TOM HARRISON

President - A letter from the VTF President

Growing up in a family of loggers and foresters in northern Minnesota, Tom Harrison is rooted in the wood product industry. Childhood and teenage memories include hand-peeling aspen logs with his uncles. When he went off to college, Tom supported himself through a millwright apprenticeship at Blandin Paper Mill and began to gain a broader perspective of wood and timber products.

Shortly after graduating, Tom worked for Blandin Wood Products, the first oriented strand board (OSB) facility in the US, for whom he would become the Director of Marketing. Tom ascertained very early on that the best marketing tool of all was a quality product backed by a level of service that catered to the customer’s needs, and this knowledge would become the backbone of his future endeavors.

Tom’s involvement with OSB led him to a keen understanding for the practicality and promise of Structural Insulated Panels. OSB is the structural component of SIPs, and Tom kept an eye on the SIP industry from its earliest stages. The insulation value of the SIPs, combined with the ease of installation, made a believer out of Tom long before SIPs became a widely accepted building alternative to conventional construction.

This led Tom to Winter Panel in Brattleboro, VT, where he worked as General Manager and ultimately became Executive Vice President. The company grew ten-fold during Tom’s five years at Winter Panel. His time there exposed him to timber framing, a building method that had recently seen a revival in the face of other building methods that continued along a track of diminishing quality. Tom quickly became fascinated with the strength, integrity, and beauty of timber framing and admired its complementary nature to the super-insulated SIPs.

His overwhelming appreciation for timber frames would eventually lead Tom to manage a small timber frame company in New Hampshire. Shortly thereafter, Tom became involved in the Cabildo project in New Orleans – the historically accurate restoration of a timber frame roof system on the Louisiana state building that had been damaged by fire. The experience introduced Tom to several timber frame experts such as Jack Sobon, Dave Carlon, and Paul Martin.

It wasn’t long before Tom and Paul, over a pot of coffee, discussed their visions for a company of their own: one that helped make timber framing more accessible to homebuilders, and one that maintained a respect for the historical applications and nuances of the craft while using technological innovations to make the process as efficient as possible. Not long after, Vermont Timber Frames was born.

Since becoming founding members in both the Timber Framer’s Guild and the Timber Frame Business Council, Vermont Timber Frames has enjoyed constant and steady growth. As we continue to grow, Tom ensures that as a company we maintain the same uncompromising standards, the same pride of workmanship, and the same commitment to service that we had during our very first timber frame project.

PAUL MARTIN

Master Timber Framer

Over twenty-five years ago, armed with a background in electrical engineering and a love of carpentry, Paul Martin began disassembling old timber frames with barn aficionado Richard Babcock in southern Vermont. What started out as a side-job for him quickly became a passion. As he helped to reincarnate the old timbers into new homes and buildings, Paul learned first-hand how the centuries-old building craft created such a strong and beautiful structure. And because many first-period European settlers had built their barns and homes along the Hudson River, he quickly found that he was immersed in history. "This area of the country is so rich with different styles of building, every time I took apart an old structure, I found myself coming across a new technique or method of timber framing," he says.

After years of dismantling old barns, Paul joined forces with Jack Sobon in building new barns with green timber. Since at that time timber framing was still a lost art in America, Paul ventured to various antique tool dealers and combed their shops for obscure carpentry journals long out of print to continue to broaden his knowledge of the craft. According to Paul, "At the time there was little or no research on timber framing, so we really had to delve into the craft on our own."

His careful study, combined with the first-hand experience he had filed away during his time with Mr. Babcock, soon brought forth stunning results. Jack Sobon says, "Paul has a knowledge of tools and woodworking skills that has resulted in joinery of better quality than that of even the early builders." Paul's mastery of joinery complemented Jack's architectural expertise, and the two continued to learn from each other as they built more and more frames. Jack has gone on to become one of the more prominent names in the industry, and has written several books on traditional timber framing.

Before too long, Paul realized that the craft that had been his passion could become his livelihood as well. "I built my best friend his home and suddenly everyone wanted one," he says. As building methods continued along a track of diminishing quality, and America began to appreciate and embrace the character, timelessness, and beauty of timber framing, Paul has stayed quite busy designing and crafting ever since. He has been able to mirror the tried and true methods of the timber framing forefathers while continuing to draw upon his own imagination to create and innovate in order to achieve a given client's desired aesthetic.

As Vice President and master timber framer of Vermont Timber Frames, Paul is head of our design team and has a hand in every frame that leaves our shop.

DEREK HARRISON

VP, Finance & Administration

Even before he graduated from Bentley College with a BS in Accounting, his father began persuading Derek to come on board Vermont Timber Frames to assist in the business aspects of the company once his studies were completed. After a stint as Weekly Financial Statement Coordinator for a wholesale foods company in Vermont, Derek made the move to VTF in 1996. During his first few years here, Derek’s responsibilities included administering shop & packing lists, payroll, staffing, and general accounting. As Vermont Timber Frames steadily grew and volume increased, his role here expanded immensely. Derek instituted better methods of tracking materials and scheduling projects, enabling us to maximize our efficiency at each interval of growth. He administered VTF’s first insurance program and then our first 401(k). He also revamped and streamlined the way we estimate projects, which has led to accuracy and turnaround time that have become benchmarks in the industry. These accomplishments culminated in putting together the financing on the software and machinery that has made us more cost-effective than many companies that may not share our reputation for quality. His vision and practicality have been essential to our growth.

JIM GIBBONS

VP, Sales & Marketing

A childhood friend of the Harrison’s, Jim learned about Vermont Timber Frames even before we were incorporated, keeping in touch with Derek and Tom as the company got off the ground. A 1996 graduate of Amherst College, Jim worked in banking in NY and as a trader in Chicago before visiting the new VTF facility shortly after we moved to Cambridge, NY, in 1999. It didn’t take long for him to realize that this was where he belonged. Jim has worked closely with Tom to help increase VTF’s exposure to design and building professionals, as well as homeowners. He is a liaison between the design team and the architects, builders, engineers, and clients who work with us. Jim is also maintaining and building our nationwide dealer program and he supervises and supports our independent representatives. All of our projects flow through Jim, and he has helped underscore our philosophy that a top-notch product needs to be upheld by top-notch service.

PAUL WESTCOTT

Production Manager

Paul Westcott’s growth within the Vermont Timber Frames family has truly been astounding. Back in 1996, Paul’s first responsibilities included surfacing timbers during fabrication as well as basic chamfering. He quickly earned the respect of his fellow employees and continued to hone his skills under the supervision of timber frame guru Paul Martin. During his two years as one of VTF's...Read More

JUSTIN MURRAY

Project Manager

Justin Murray had no idea what he was getting himself into when he joined the Vermont Timber Frames shop crew during the summer of 1998. Justin’s dad, Dennis, a custom builder, was working alongside VTF on a project in Shaftsbury, VT. It occurred to him that timber framing might be an ideal summer job for his son while he was attending college. Justin was hired soon thereafter...Read More

HEATHER WATKINS

Project Manager

As is the case with many Vermont Timber Frame employees, Heather grew up around construction – both her father and her grandfather are contractors. Interested in both design and construction as long as she can remember, Heather drew floor plans for her father while in high school and saw the first home built from her plans while just a junior. In 2001, while still going to school full time, Heather came on board as a detailer. Once she received her degree in Civil Engineering Technology (with a concentration in Architecture) she quickly became a full-time project manager. Her bubbly, cheerful disposition does not disguise the fact that Heather handles both the design and project management aspects of her position equally effectively. She has been responsible for some of the trickier projects we have come across the past couple of years, including additions, truss systems, and hybrids.

GREG PAWLOWSKI

Project Manager/SIP Product Manager

Greg moved to the US from Poland in 2001 and eventually settled in at Vermont Timber Frames in 2003. His educational background in Poland included graduation from a building/technical college in 1997 and enrollment in the Poznan University of Technology where he majored in civil engineering. At VTF, Greg began as a joiner in our shop. Before long he exhibited the leadership qualities, ambition, and aptitude to work as a crew leader on timber frame raisings, where his building systems and engineering experience proved vital.

Greg’s quest for more knowledge and experience has since landed him at the design desk, where he works closely under the supervision of VTF master timber framer, Paul Martin, and the rest of the project managers. He retains information admirably whether it is via AutoCad classes, timber frame workshops, or in-house timber frame design, and Greg has shown an impressive amount of promise during his time here. The amount of responsibility given to Greg seems to expand daily, and he is running with it.

SCOTT ETMAN

Project Manager

Scott met VTF president Tom Harrison when he became the Assistant Pastor & Youth Pastor at their local church. It didn't take long before Tom recognized that Scott's well-rounded background could become an asset to VTF. Scott has taken both mechanical and civil engineering coursework, is proficient in CAD 3D design and modeling, and has spent time in construction and carpentry. After some preliminary discussions with Tom about VTF, Scott eagerly honed his CAD skills at a local college in anticipation of an opportunity to come aboard.

Scott got his foot in the door by assisting VTF Project Managers with drafting during the prime building months. Within a few months, VTF was happy to have Scott in a full-time capacity. His responsibilities have included formatting VTF's growing library of Portfolio Plans as well as putting together 3D models for estimates. His organization and attention to detail have earned praise from multiple clients, and Scott has quickly become adept at coordinating various aspects of our projects. One client specifically requested Scott be his Project Manager - a great sign indeed.

Scott remains active in his church group and includes cliff diving in his 'leisure' activities!

TIM ALMAY

Timber Framer/Facilities manager

After spending over fifteen years in the paper industry, Tim started with us in 2002 as one of our Hundegger machine operators. This position is identified a bit differently at VTF than other companies that make use of Hundegger machinery in that we see it as a very important component of quality control. We check every timber immediately after fabrication to make sure peg holes aren’t blown out, tenons aren’t overly splintered, etc. This ensures the timber will appear as the client expects it to. Tim has been an important part of our quality control program.

TAWNYA KENTILE

Accounting and HR Administrator

Tawnya came to Vermont Timber Frames after working as the Education & Program Coordinator for a non-profit statewide recreation and park society, and frankly we’re not sure how we were able to get along without her. She has helped to streamline several aspects of our accounting and HR systems, which has helped enable the company to grow into a much more finely tuned machine. Tawnya has recently shifted to the Sales and Marketing Department, where she assists in implementing initiatives, manages the database, prepares proposals and contracts and administers various rep program items. Most importantly however, her quick wit keeps everyone on their toes.

RICK GUILLEMETTE

Timber Framer

One of Vermont Timber Frames’ longest tenured employees, Rick has basically been with us since our beginning, and he’s been timber framing for most of his life. He has shown a dependability and dedication to his craft that are fine examples for the rest of our crew, and there is no substitute for his experience. New VTF timber framers report straight to Rick to choose chisels and other tools – his remarkable collection of antique tools is the envy of many.

JOSH BAMRICK

Hundegger Machine Operator

Josh has been with Vermont Timber Frames since 2001, and has been one of our Hundegger machine operators for the past year and a half. From the start, he has shown a keen eye for quality control and an ability to maintain a steady flow of production through the VTF shop. Josh has embraced the level of responsibility we demand from our machine operators.

BRYAN BENTLEY

Assistant Production Manager

Bryan joined VTF in 2001 and his leadership skills and construction experience almost immediately made an impact on our company. Within a year he worked as a crane operator for us and then became a crew leader. Bryan is also an Army Reserve – he recently returned from a year of service in Iraq where he served as an engineer maintaining base camps and fixing machinery. We’re thrilled to have him back and proud to have him on our team.

SHAWN MORRISON

Material Handler

Shawn's been with us for several years now, and his responsibilities include organizing inventory, loading and unloading the K2 machinery, and pre-planing timbers prior to fabrication. Shawn is quite an athlete - he plays softball and is the starting QB for an area semi-pro football team. Shawn's easy-going demeanor and quick smile belie his disciplined work ethic.

RYAN WOODDELL

Timber Framer / Joiner

Ryan has become a jack-of-all-trades for us in the shop and on the road - from material handling, raisings, finish & handcut joinery to running the 4-sided planer and the K2 machine, he's just about done it all. Ryan plays a lot of poker in his leisure time as well as various sports including golf, softball, and pool.

Benjamin Barton

Timber framer

Ben found VTF after moving here from Boston, where he worked as security at Fenway Park.  He graduated from Mount Ida College with a degree in criminal Justice and now works as a joiner. When he’s not at work he enjoys hunting and fishing.

Brian Westcott

Facilities coordinator

Proper maintenance of our production equipment is vital to the success of VTF. Brian Westcott makes sure all of it is working smoothly. Brian’s responsibilities also include assisting the shop supervisor, ordering supplies, and general building maintenance. As if all of that isn’t exciting enough, this thrill seeker likes to spend his free time at amusement parks.  Roller coasters are a passion of his, “the faster, the better."

Derek Bentley

Crew leader, Crane operator, joiner and panel installer

When not on site, Derek enjoys 4 wheeling and anything outdoors.

Josh Duddy

Crew leader, crane operator, joiner, panel installer

Josh quickly emerged as a leader on site for VTF. He helps to ensure efficient timber frame raisings and is relentless in his quality control. Josh enjoys hunting and camping in his spare time.

Mark Heffernan

Project Manager

Mark Heffernan may be one of our newest employees here at VTF, but he is no stranger to the craft.  From design to construction he has been practicing the trade since he was 19 years old.  We are extremely excited to have him aboard due to his enthusiasm for the work we do.  “I love honest architecture and timber framing is a great example of that,” he says.  Aside from his love for building and design, he also enjoys crafting his own musical instruments and plays both the guitar and the flute. 

Mike Bouchard

Crane operator, joiner

A talented craftsman in his own right, Mike has made an impact on VTF projects from Day One. Mike enjoys 4-wheeling and snowmobiling in his spare time.

Travis Martin

Project Manager

They say the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree and Travis Martin is living proof of that.  The son of Master Timber Framer Paul Martin, Travis has been working for VTF since 1999.  After working in the shop and in the field for several years he has now joined our Project Management team.  With timber framing in his blood, Travis is certain to have a long and successful career with VTF.

Mike Stone

Production Supervisor

Mike began his VTF career with a healthy dose of timber framing and general carpentry experience under his belt. Since 'Quality Control' might very well be his middle name, Mike has become VTF Production Supervisor and he keeps a keen eye on everything that comes through our shop. From the smallest timber sample to the largest commercial project, it all flows through Mike.

Jeff Brooks

Sales Manager, NY and VT

Jeff's commitment to our customers and straightforward approach to service and sales make him an extremely valuable member of our team.  He is a knowledgable resource for all things timber frame & SIP and he takes great pride in helping VTF clients coordinate their homebuilding projects.  Jeff's quick wit and enthusiasm make him popular with clients, builders, architects, as well as the VTF staff.  Jeff grew up hiking, fishing and hunting in the Adirondacks.  His love for the outdoors as well as his extensive sales management and customer service background made him a perfect fit for VTF.  When he is not with a client or at a home show you can find Jeff at his camp, the ball field, or at the theatre with his family.

Client Testimonial

"Jim, I couldn't let our recent frame raising go without comment. From the early conception of the plan in 2002, through to the frame erection in Suffolk, England in 2006, VTF were a pleasure to deal with. Tom and Paul clearly love their work, and it is reflected in the enthusiasm of the whole team. Heather was both patient and creative in..."
   - Steve & Caroline McClellan

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