Professional Profile: Charlie Darras

Family: Wife Kathy (love of my life) and son Nick, plus our dog Fenway and our four cats Bella, Stella, Coco, and Brady

College: Word of Life Bible Institute

First Job Unrelated to Your Current Field: Worked at McDonalds in high school, and as a heavy equipment operator.

First Job in Current Field: Outside sales for a lumber yard in Southern New England.

What your company does now and its plans for the future?: Crystal is a national manufacturer of energy efficient vinyl and aluminum windows and doors. I work with dealers, developers, and construction professionals to provide the best Crystal products for their residential and commercial projects throughout New England. I assist existing trade customers to grow their business, especially with new Crystal products, and I seek to expand sales with new customers. I also consult with architects whose projects are in the design phase providing cost effective solutions and innovative alternatives as they specify window and door products.

Hobbies: Coaching and playing on men’s softball team. Time with my family.

Favorite Novel: “90 Minutes in Heaven”

Favorite Movie: “Gran Torino”

Keys to Success: I believe in treating others as I want to be treated, and with respect. Being honest with the customer. Providing customers with the service they deserve and getting back to them in a timely manner. Giving it your best effort each day, because you do not know what tomorrow will bring. 

If you are going to do something, do it right the first time, as you may not get another chance. Be humble and listen to the customer’s expectations before speaking.

Person(s) you most admire (outside of family): Bernie Norman, who is the pastor of Creation Church in Thompson, CT and a science teacher at Woodstock Academy in Woodstock, CT.

If you were forced to choose a different profession, what would it be?: Counselor to help people.