Meet Our Diamond Certified Expert Contributor

Rick Telly: An Interlocking Opportunity

By James Florence, guest contributor

SAN JOSE — In the wake of the 2008 recession, Rick Telly found a job opportunity that, while technically outside of his expertise, nevertheless interlocked with his prior professional experience. “I started in the construction industry in 2001, when my brother-in-law got me an entry-level position as a prepping detailer,” he remembers. “I’ve always been handy and enjoyed building, so it was a good fit. I would go into the newly built homes and handle finishing details like drywall touch-ups and lighting—whatever was needed to get them ready for turnover. Following that, I worked as a backend quality assurance superintendent for a new home developer.

“In 2009, after the housing market crashed, I found myself unemployed,” he continues. “I came across a job listing for a project manager to oversee paver installations. I didn’t know a lot about pavers, but I applied anyway and got the job. Once I started, I took an avid interest in the work. I was fascinated by the different elements and how we were able to totally transform a property. Over time, I branched out into related areas like lighting, artificial turf and outdoor kitchens. I continued to grow my knowledge, as well as my network of professional contacts.”

In 2020, Rick started his own hardscaping business: Unique Pavers. Today, he says his favorite part of his job is interacting with clients. “I enjoy getting to know people from all different walks of life. Our company is small, so we’re able to develop a close relationship with each customer and tailor the project to their individual needs and wants. The way we see it, each of our customers is unique, so their paver installations should be as well.”

A lifelong resident of San Jose (where he lives with his husband, Mike), Rick spends his time outside of work on a variety of pastimes. “For fun, Mike and I like camping, fishing, traveling and going to concerts. We love to see the world and experience new places, foods, and cultures.” Rick and Mike also like spending time with their dogs (two chihuahuas and two French bulldogs) and renovating their home.

Regarding a professional philosophy, Rick espouses the value of doing things right the first time. “I don’t like to waste time and money redoing things,” he affirms. “That’s just something I learned over the years, from seeing things my parents went through to gaining experience on jobsites. I saw that when you take shortcuts to save money, you end up spending more in the long run. I don’t want to repeat those mistakes, so I always try to do things correctly the first time, and that has helped me gain a positive reputation in the industry.”

When asked what he’d do if he were to retire tomorrow, Rick says he’d see more of the world. “I would continue to broaden my horizons and explore new places. It wasn’t until after I got married that I first traveled out of the country, and ever since, I’ve been addicted to it. There’s still a lot more of the world I haven’t seen, so I look forward to traveling more in the future.”

Ask Me Anything!

Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?

A: Rome. I’m fascinated by the ancient history and culture there.

Q: What’s your favorite local restaurant?

A: Golden Buddha in San Jose.

Q: What’s your favorite thing to do on a rainy day?

A: Watch a movie.

Q: How do you like your coffee?

A: Black—no cream, no sugar.

Q: Do you collect anything?

A: I collect souvenir bottle openers from different places that I’ve visited.