Employee Spotlight: Carlo Coxen – 30 Years of Dedication, Drafting, and Innovation
In July 1995, Williams welcomed a new full-time draftsman to our Madison Avenue office, Carlo Coxen, who was completing his final year at ITT with a degree in General Design. Today, we proudly celebrate 30 years of his incredible service, innovation, and passion.
From day one, Carlo brought more than just technical skill, he brought a deep curiosity and drive to learn. At the time, Williams was already a trusted name in the industry, but with a rapidly evolving product line and more innovations on the horizon, there was much to learn and do. Carlo embraced the challenge, gaining hands-on knowledge from experienced mentors who helped shape his foundation in engineering design.
His early work in drafting helped Carlo develop a unique ability to visualize how each product functions within a project’s design. That insight became invaluable as he contributed to the creation and specification of new products, and the customization of existing solutions to meet the unique needs of our clients.
Over the years, Carlo has played a critical role in supporting some of the largest infrastructure projects in the U.S. His detailed drafting work laid the groundwork for everything from bridges and dams to stadiums and skyscrapers. His ability to produce accurate submittal details helps ensure Williams’ products are approved and implemented successfully.
Carlo’s responsibilities go far beyond drafting. From preparing production details that guide accurate pricing and purchasing, to entering and managing part numbers that ensure every component in an order is correct, his work impacts nearly every stage of the process. Alongside his talented teammates Noel, Dan, and Matt, Carlo helps keep the department moving forward with clarity and vision.
Drafting Is in His DNA
Carlo’s path into drafting began long before his time at Williams. He credits his father, a draftsman for GMC Truck and Bus, with teaching him the trade the “old school” way: pencil, paper, and templates. Those early lessons laid the groundwork for a lifelong career rooted in precision, creativity, and pride in craftsmanship.
Support at Home
Carlo’s success wouldn’t be possible without his support system. His wife, Susie, has been by his side for over 31 years, keeping him grounded and motivated with her own professional passion and unwavering encouragement. Their son, Carlo II (CJ), is carving out a path in the music industry with a creative drive that runs in the family. Together, they enjoy cheering on Detroit’s sports teams, through the highs and the lows.
Lifelong Learner and Music Enthusiast
Carlo holds a Grouting Training Certificate from ASBI (University of Texas at Austin, 2002) and continues to expand his knowledge whenever possible. Outside of work, you’ll often find him with a guitar in hand. A lifelong musician, Carlo started playing at age 10 and is still deeply influenced by the classic artists he grew up listening to as the youngest of 12 siblings. He’s a devoted concert-goer and a passionate explorer of both old favorites and emerging new music.
Looking Back—and Forward
When asked what makes his career meaningful, Carlo reflects on the pride of knowing that his work contributed to iconic structures across the country.
“To go anywhere in the U.S. and see a bridge, dam, stadium, highway system, or skyscraper, and know I had a hand in it is the ultimate validation.”
As we celebrate Carlo’s 30-year journey with Williams, we’re grateful for the dedication, innovation, and heart he brings to everything he does. His journey is a testament to what it means to grow alongside a company, both personally and professionally.
Expect Nothing. Appreciate Everything.
Here’s to Carlo, and to many more years of shaping the future of infrastructure, one drawing at a time.
