Name: Don Pannone
Title: Senior Project Manager
Company: SWBR Architects
Location: Rochester, N.Y.
Birthplace: Rochester, N.Y.
Education: Associates degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology at Monroe Community College
First job outside of real estate: I had my own landscaping business at age 14. It started out with a few houses next door then blossomed to include 10 houses around the neighborhood.
First job in real estate or allied field: I started working for Shepland Partnership Architects in 1982. It was a small firm where I was trained to do a little of everything from two great teachers with a lot of patience.
What do you do now and what are you planning for the future? As a studio leader and a senior project manager with SWBR Architects, I manage the studio assignment efforts as well as manage all sizes of commercial/industrial/manufacturing/research laboratory projects. I work to build client networks with institutions, industry, landlords, smaller businesses.
How do you unwind from a busy day? I love to spend time with my 10 year old daughter. I am learning a lot of history, new math and science. Also together we spent the last four years building a car from scratch. Now it is time to enjoy it along with other antique cars that I have restored over the years. I also have a small BBQ catering business that keeps our family busy. This is really unwinding for me.
Favorite book or author: "The Cobra in a Barn" by Tom Cotter. It is about finding treasures in barns, buildings and in fields.
Favorite movie: "One flew over the Cockoo's Nest" - I shed a tear every time I see it.
Last song you downloaded? "Bad Motor Scooter" by Montrose
One word to describe your work environment: Gratifying
Rules to live by in business: Be passionate about what you are doing. Others will catch on and share your enthusiasm. Be open to other's ideas. Do not dictate, but rather listen first and then bring your opinion to the table Don't let your emotions ever get in the way of a good disagreement.
If you could invite one person to dinner (living or dead) who would it be and where would you go? Jesus to the Hyland Dinner.
What is your dream job? Own a high-end auto and hotrod restoration shop.

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