Born in California and heavily influenced by his father’s work, Jack grew up with a passion for airplanes. Initially working in a tool and dye plant making airplane parts, Jack entered the Air Force as an aircraft mechanic. He soon realized that what he really wanted to do was design and draw, both of which had been hobbies for him since he was a child. After leaving the Air Force in 1978, Jack received his contractor’s license in California and went to work building custom homes and motels in northern California.
“After a while the zoom, zoom, zoom of the job and area got old,” recalls Jack. “Then I took a trip out to Las Cruces to visit Tina (now his wife) and saw a great opportunity.”
In 1980 Jack moved to Las Cruces and started his new life. “I wanted to get an idea of the market, so I started asking around and went to work with a guy who was doing the impossible - building steel-framed homes. Needless to say this didn’t work out,” laughs Jack. “When people tried to hang a picture they were deterred by the sound of the nail hitting the metal studs.”
Building steel-framed homes for a year and selling few, Jack realized he wanted to get back into wood framing. “Framing is my specialty,” Jack smiles, “So, I hooked up with a young, energetic builder, but I really wanted to grow roots here, and I wanted my own GB-98 general contracting license.” He had been his own boss before, liked it and missed it. So, for the first time in his family’s history, Jack became the owner and operator of his own business. Today, Jack’s dedication to ownership is clearly marked from one calloused hand to the other. “I’ve worked in the field as an apprentice and journeyman... working with all aspects of construction during my life. I’ve never asked any of my employees to do something that I wouldn’t
Jack got his license, built a home for himself and his family, and started contracting and framing as his primary focus. Eventually he began subcontracting framing for other general contractors. “We did that for a long time and we did well,” he recalls. “...built thirty to forty homes a year, and business has been good ever since.” Still, he found himself wanting to do more general contracting, and not just framing. From dog houses to motels,” chuckles Jack. “We do it all.”
Arrowhead Construction’s styles include - but are not limited to - Mediterranean, Santa Fe, pueblo and contemporary homes. This year’s Parade home is sister to a home they built at Spanish Point. With copper sinks and copper tile inlays, this house models the company’s wide specialty-made range of components.
“I like the round sky lights,” says Jack, pointing above, “and I like the tiled roofs on the interior casitas. We always like to add distinct touches...a tile mural in the entryway, handmade trim, stonework. I hate the manufactured look; I enjoy something that looks hand-crafted by a tradesman.”
Mixing old-world with new, all of the houses are Honeywell Smart Houses, capable of being accessed remotely when set up by the homeowner. Incorporating surround-sound and theatre systems is also a feature standard in Arrowhead homes. With all of his children born and raised in Las Cruces, Jack is optimistic about the future here. “I think Cruces is a great place. I love the climate, no freezing snow. I think that despite the lack of high-paying jobs, potential for growth is phenomenal.” Flowing with the growth, Jack looks forward to beginning work on his lots in the upcoming Picacho Mountain community. “I’m really, really excited about this opportunity.”
Despite being a true workaholic, or perhaps because of it, Jack still loves his job. “I’m pretty driven. I get a lot of enjoyment out of this. Can you tell by my jeans? They’re my best pair!” he laughs, plucking out fabric full of paint and dust. “I do think it’s an art medium that involves function.”
And perhaps “driven” is the perfect word for Jack, who is also a huge NASCAR fan and car enthusiast. “One trip to a NASCAR race and you’ll go for life. I’ve taken my boys since they were about four, and my oldest is a true fan.” Jack is also the proud owner of a 1929 Chevrolet Model A that he came across by chance and is rebuilding. “I only know of ten in the country, five that run, including mine.”
“I’ve dedicated my life to construction... the tool and dye business... working as an aircraft mechanic... building houses. I’m proud to say I’m not just a guy who drives around in his truck, talking on the phone. I get a great enjoyment and satisfaction when designing and building my own homes,” Jack says, smiling.
Whether he is working on planes, specializing in framing, or loving fast cars, Jack’s interests have culminated in a life full of passions, as well as the ultimate joy: finding success and happiness in hard work and dedication.
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