Entrepreneurial Spotlight

This issue: Santo Pernicano & Bob Young - Area West Fence

Just a couple of average guys....with a decidedly above average vision.

Santo Pernicano and Bob Young, owners of Area West Fence, are both self-proclaimed “average guys” whose entry into the fence contracting industry was anything but flashy. They didn’t start out as presidents of a Fortune 500 company. They did, however, begin their journey as do most entrepreneurs - driven by a common dream and a fierce passion for excellence.

After working several years for a prominent U.S. fence manufacturer - learning the ropes and honing his business “savvy” - Santo Pernicano decided he could do it better. He decided he could make a difference.

Santo’s friend, Bob Young, had followed a similar path and come to a similar conclusion. They decided to do it together. Two heads, you know. Partners.

Fast forwarding through what both owners refer to as a “humbling” beginning (followed by a few years of growing pains), Area West Fence has emerged as one of the fastest growing, most successful fence companies in California. Santo credits “a clear organized vision” for this accomplishment.

Santo is the financial driver, with a eye on that vision and a deft hand at managing the financial growth and overall operations of the company. Bob sweats the day-to-day details, making sure all jobs are given the attention they require and are completed on schedule. Together they play to each other’s strengths, bringing out the best in each other.

Developing relationships with other members of the American Fence Association (AFA), the American Subcontractors Association (ASA) and Engineering and General Contractors Association (EGCA) has provided Santo and Bob with a better understanding of the business and brought years of valuable insight. As acting President of the AFA for 2006, Santo’s vision is to provide education and changes to the industry by providing required training classes and a certification program for the laborers.

“This industry clearly has had an impact on society,” he affirms, adding “Not only by providing jobs and a living for individuals and their families, but also by providing for the protection of people and property.”

Santo goes on to explain that as part of their planning platform, AWF has formulated a strategic team of advisors that work together to provide invaluable guidance and assist in the development of short and long range planning for both business and employees.