Entered the carpentry profession in June 1966 at age twenty-one. Received four years of comprehensive classroom and hands-on field training, graduating in 1970 with Journeyman's Certificate in the United Brotherhood of Carpenters & Joiners of America. In the years 1977-78, working full time as a foreman carpenter, taught the classroom portion of the U.B.C.J.A. carpenters apprenticeship training program at Carl Sandburg College.
Prior to opening DeRose & Associates in 1984, working full time with other contractors, developed extensive background in;
* New Home Construction
* Residential, Commercial & Institutional Remodeling
* Repair of Fire, Wind, Hail, Water and Termite Damage
* Historical Restoration
* Kitchen & Bath Design, Build & Remodeling
* Handicap Remodeling
Since 1986, a continued member of the National Association of Home Builders, Home Builders Association of Illinois and Western Illinois Builders Association. Three time past President of the Western Illinois Builders Association.
Current member of;
* City of Galesburg Overall Code Review Commission
* Knox County Zoning Board of Appeals
* Western Illinois Builders Association
* Illinois Homebuilders Association
* National Association of Homebuilders
* Christmas in Action (April) Galesburg Board of Directors
* Galesburg Area Chamber of Commerce