By Nora Kuderka, Regional Manager – Flemington, NJ
When it comes to winter storm damage, I’ve learned time and again that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.
Subzero temperatures often freeze unprotected water lines and pipes, leading to flooding. Heavy, wet snow can be just as destructive, downing power lines, collapsing roofs, and triggering a chain reaction of problems once the heat goes out.
The best defense against winter risks like these is preparation. Before the first frost, schedule heating system maintenance, clear trees near power lines, and test your generator. Don’t overlook insulation on exterior walls. Even in semi-heated warehouses, pipes can freeze if they’re not properly protected. Small oversights like these can quickly turn into major losses. If you close your building for the season, turn down the heat. Don’t shut it off completely.
Winter readiness isn’t about reacting to the weather. It’s about staying one step ahead of it. An extra 10% of maintenance effort today can save thousands in repairs tomorrow.
Learn more about preventative maintenance in our whitepaper "How to Protect Facilities During the Winter Season."
As Veterans Day approaches, we recognize the veterans whose spirit of service extends beyond their time in uniform.
Earlier this year, Todd Van Sant, Vice President of Estimating, was elected Senior Vice Commander of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) for Colorado. A proud Air Force veteran, Todd’s lifelong commitment to helping others is reflected in his work with ATI and the VFW.
That same mission of service inspired our Dallas office. ATI employees turned their workplace recognition rewards into donations of nonperishable food to the Veterans Resource Center of Dallas, which provides meals, supplies, and vocational training to homeless and at-risk veterans.
As we celebrate our veterans, we echo the sentiments of Senior Project Director Pete Santiago:
“My military experience taught me the importance of discipline, teamwork, and adaptability—qualities that directly carry over into my work at ATI. In the military, every mission requires precision, accountability, and trust in your team. I’ve found that same mindset essential in restoration work. Whether we’re responding to a disaster or helping clients rebuild, that sense of purpose and service never leaves you.
In honor of Veterans Day, take a moment to reflect on the values that veterans bring to their communities—commitment, resilience, and integrity. To my fellow veterans, thank you for your service and for continuing to make a difference long after the uniform comes off.”
Caleb Parrotte, Assistant Regional Manager of our Seattle office, was named a 2025 Ladder Award winner by Restoration & Remediation (R&R) Magazine. The honor recognizes rising leaders under 35 shaping the future of the restoration industry. From sweeping job sites to leading a region, his journey reflects a lifelong passion for helping people rebuild. Read Caleb’s story here.
We also congratulate Ryder Hendrix, Regional Manager of ATI Greenville, who was named a Ladder Award runner-up.
We recently united our company under one standardized set of field paperwork. This initiative simplifies documentation, enhances accuracy, and strengthens teamwork nationwide. By working from the same playbook, every office can deliver the same high-quality service our clients trust, no matter where the job takes us.
As we prepare for winter, we have much to be grateful for: our teammates, our clients, and the trust you place in us every day. From all of us, thank you for your continued partnership. We wish you safety and joy this Thanksgiving season.