James DeMaio is vice president of business operations at Pat Munger Construction Company Inc., where he leads all business operations including safety, logistics and internal systems.
He joined Munger in 2016 as an intern and quickly advanced from field worker to executive leadership. DeMaio plays a key role in guiding strategic growth and team development. He holds degrees in automotive technology and business management and serves on both the visionary leadership team and operations leadership team.
What’s been your biggest professional accomplishment so far in your career?
I helped develop and launch Munger Construction’s Tier II Leadership Team to mentor emerging talent and ensure long-term continuity. This initiative is now central to the company’s succession strategy and earned recognition alongside the Hartford Business Journal’s Family Business Award win, reinforcing Munger’s legacy as a purpose-driven, future-focused organization.
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Why do you deserve to be a 40 Under Forty?
• Built an internal leadership team to mentor rising professionals and help drive Munger Construction’s long-term succession and growth strategy.
• Helped expand Munger’s footprint beyond Connecticut while overseeing business operations for one of North America’s top 100 metal builders.
• Committed to continuous improvement through leadership certifications, peer advisory groups and programs like Vistage, Sandler Training and the Chamber of Commerce of Eastern CT’s Leadership Program.
How are you involved in the community?
I serve on the properties committee at North Guilford Congregational Church and am a member of the Guilford standing building committee and the “100 Good Guys” organization.
I also volunteer for various charitable organizations (ex. House of Heroes, Wishing Wheels) and annually participate in the Closer to Free Ride for Yale’s Smilow Cancer Center.
What do you like to do outside of work?
I enjoy golfing, cycling, snowboarding, working on antique vehicles/tractors, hunting/fishing and all sorts of outdoor activities. I also enjoy giving back through charitable events.
I value continuous learning and regularly participate in leadership training and peer development groups to sharpen both personal and professional growth.
Fun Fact: I enjoy working on, building and pulling antique tractors.