Korellis Roofing, an employee-owned business, has become one of the largest roofing contractors in Northwest Indiana. George Korellis opened the business out of his garage in 1960. His son Pete then took over the family business after graduating college, and since it has grown immensely through the generations. Now, Korellis has approximately 170 dedicated employees.
Project Manager Phil Junge has been with Korellis Roofing for 21 years. He was drawn into the company for their outstanding reputation.
“They’ve always been a company that stands behind their work. If there’s an issue on the job, it’s addressed and taken care of quickly,” said Junge. “There’s a level of respect with how they treat their employees, and that’s what stood out to me about Korellis and why I wanted to join them.”
Respect in the workplace is crucial in a work environment. It’s important for employees to feel appreciated and comfortable, and to find a work atmosphere that recognizes those needs.
“If there is an issue, we seek to understand the entire situation to ensure it doesn't happen again,” said Junge.
At first Junge started with Korellis Roofing as a journeyman roofer. He then moved up to a foreman position and in 2005, he started doing management in the steep slope division. For Junge, he enjoys the management side of his work. He appreciates human connections and being able to help people head on.
“The biggest challenge is giving everyone self-worth," Junge said. ”I want to make sure I know more about our employees than just their names - I want to know about their families and make them feel a part of the Korellis family."
Junge has always been involved in the roofing industry. He has always wanted to work for a company that would allow him to experience different job positions.
“I knew I always wanted to be with a company that would allow me to move up the ladder. I wanted the opportunity to move up in a company, and Korellis does that for people,” said Junge.
Korellis Roofing was what brought Junge to Northwest Indiana. It has provided him with opportunities to grow not only career wise, but life wise.
“I’m from the Chicago area, and I came here for this company,” said Junge. “If you want somewhere where you can put your feet in the sand, have a good place where you are going to stay busy, and be able to raise a family and live a good lifestyle-Korellis is a great place to be.”
There is a sense of ownership when being a part of a family business. You have a community that works side by side with you on a daily basis.
“We have a lot of people that care about what they do, we all have a vested interest in the company, and a vested interest as a family,” said Junge.
For more information on Korellis Roofing, visit korellis.com.
