Manhattan Mechanical, a premier merit shop mechanical contractor in the Chicagoland area, has announced the appointment of Joe Harkness as president of the company. Harkness succeeds Mike Uremovich, who established Manhattan Mechanical in 2012. After ten years, Uremovich remains CEO with a focus in the marketing and support arena.

Outstanding management skills and a keen eye for overall business development made this appointment a clear choice for Uremovich.

“For the past eight years, Joe has proved himself as a true leader, exhibited in his sharp focus on safety and quality,” Uremovich said. “His exemplary leadership skills are evident in his support of workplace development efforts and recognition of the value our dedicated employees bring to Manhattan Mechanical.”

Accomplished, industry career
In 2010, Harkness began working in residential development before transitioning to a laborer role at Starcon. Shortly after, he entered that company’s management development program and, within two years, moved into an estimator role.

Harkness’s career with Manhattan Mechanical began in 2013 as an estimator and project manager involved in several large capital projects. In 2015, he was promoted to senior project manager and simultaneously carried responsibilities within the estimating department.

In January 2018, Harkness was named operations manager, supervising all operations, including estimating, logistics, warehouse, and support services within Manhattan Mechanical. He held that position until his recent appointment as president. 

Harkness has played an active role in projects recognized by the Associated Builders and Contractors Organization, receiving local and national recognition, including both the Pyramid and Eagle Awards.

Unique leadership opportunity
Commenting on the future of Manhattan Mechanical, Harkness says he plans on maintaining and building upon its outstanding reputation in safety and quality, while also providing exceptional customer service. Innovation remains a key component when pursuing business endeavors. 

“I have a unique opportunity to bring a fresh, new perspective in the way we do business,” Harkness explained. “My goal is to continue to set Manhattan Mechanical apart from our competitors.”

With a focus on the internal development of the workforce, his mission is to foster a team environment based on communication and respect. 

“As president of Manhattan Mechanical Services, my goal is to create a sustainable and predictable work environment for all of our employees,” Harkness said. “Simultaneously, my focus is working to increase shareholder value, as we move to an employee-owned company.”  

This type of vision and leadership signals a bright future for Manhattan Mechanical. “Joe’s leadership skills are second to none and are crucial to the growth and success of Manhattan Mechanical,” Uremovich said. 

Harkness attended Eastern Illinois University, receiving a bachelor’s degree in history in 2003. He then pursued his Master’s degree in Business Administration, specializing in project management.