Today we’d like to introduce you to Tom Cuneio.
Tom, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I was a mechanical engineering student working at MURR (nuclear research reactor) while at Mizzou in the early 90’s. We had a 3D CAD model of the reactor and used it to design equipment for subatomic particle experiments. We were using Autocad in a non-traditional way and I filed it away in mind. I worked for several years as an engineer and wound up in LA where I saw how commercial masonry products were designed, ordered, and produced. It occurred to me that using 3D models could solve many problems in the industry. I wound up leaving my professional life to chase a girl which put me in a trailer in Colorado working at a camp. From that trailer, I began playing with a 3D modeling process to satisfy the needs of large commercial masonry projects. In 2004, I incorportaed CAD BLOX LLC (www.cadblox.com) which has become the leading solution for mason contractors. We have modeled thousands of projects throughout North America and have pioneered the BIM Coordination space. We have just completed the new Buffalo Bills NFL stadium which is our largest project to date. Projects of local interest include the Museum at the Gateway Arch, Energizer Park, several campus projects at MU and Washintgon University. In 2016 I incorporated a seprate company, 3DiQ Inc (www.3DiQinc.com) and started writing code to improve platforms for architectural design of masonry along with other automations in the 3D space. Our solutions are used by hundreds of architects throughout the US.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I had a slow start making just enough to provide for my family for the first several years. I pursued other opportunites about a year into the business but after about 2 years CAD BLOX seemed to have new life. Growing from one to two and two to three took several years. The COVID years were hard. The revenue plan and initial vision for 3DiQ Inc had to be modified dramatically after about 6 years of investment. I had to cut 70% and modify to a stable plan with a smaller vision. We are now stable in both companies and having some of our best years ever. The faithful commitment of loyal people along the way has been a great joy to see.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
We build 3D CAD models (graphical, not physical) for commercial mason contractors. We solve many problems with our models including placing material orders, providing construction drawings, BIM coordination with other trades, integration of LIDAR scans, and working out design issues. We have pioneered this technology for our industry. We are actively seeking ways to bring 3D and scanning solutions to improve workflows for contractors, producers, and architects. Leveraging technology helps reduce construction cost, reduce waste, and preserve designs that might otherwise be too inefficient and expensive to execute. I’m proud of the problems we are able to solve that help people everyday. I’m proud to have the trust of an industry to solve the hardest problems. I’m proud to have grown through our reputation for providing real value and doing the right thing to take care of people. I’m proud to work with so many good people.
Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
I was a very active kid who loved sports. I’ve always like a challenge. I’m drawn to puzzles and physically extreme and unusual things. I learned to juggle and ride a unicycle as a kid. I started running 5k and 10k races in elementary school. My hobies over the years have included rock climbing, track cycling, white water kayaking, and my favorite – surfing. I was a curious kid but not a trouble maker. I wanted to do the right thing and started reading the Bible out of curiosity from the 3rd grade which I have continued since then. I liked sculpture and art, building things, and had many friends. I was somewhat shy and independent.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.cadblox.com
