Fabricator Focus: CogswellStone, Palmyra, Va.

March 4, 2011

But, then, the Cogswells aren’t just about making their employees better. John Cogswell served on the Marble Institute of America (MIA) committee that developed the criteria for accrediting stone-fabrication shops, and CogswellStone was among the first dozen shops in the country to be accredited.

“I was very proactive about the accreditation process and thought it would be another milestone that would help set us apart from some of the competitors that have grown up in the area,” he explains. “We jumped on it as a company, did the things that had to be done, and we’re very proud of it.”

Click photo to enlargeIt was that same desire to improve his business that’s led Cogswell to be an active member of MIA for more than a decade, and to host MIA educational lectures and seminars at the shop.

“I enjoy sharing some of the things I’ve been through with other MIA members,” he says. “I also know, when I’m looking for something, I can make a couple phone calls and talk to someone and get the information I need. If I have a problem, I can get help from someone who’s been there and done that.

“I’ve made a lot of industry contacts and I’ve learned a lot.”

And, despite the economy, Cogswell remains upbeat about his second career.

“I think a lot of things are going on in the stone industry right now that are very positive,” he concludes. “I see a lot of activity from stone fabricators looking to get better. I see the equipment getting better and the machine manufacturers working hard to enable us to do a better job.

“The templating and installation equipment is making our jobs a little easier every day, and I’m happy to see that happen in our industry.”

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