Chesapeake Glazing LLC

Company Overview

Chesapeake Glazing has served the Mid-Atlantic for 20+ years in commercial building envelope design and installation. Their expertise includes glazing systems, architectural metal and security glazing. They recently launched an apprenticeship program to actively develop their workforce through a state-approved program that combines mentorship, education and real-world experience.

Leadership: Michael O’Neal, President

Website

Location: 25 Main Street, Suite 200, Reisterstown, MD, 21136

Years in business: 21 Years

Company motto: Changing the VIEW for Commercial Glazing

Q&A with Michael O’Neal

Tell us about your recently launched apprenticeship program. Why is this initiative important to your company? How does it set your company apart from others?

Our company recently launched a Registered Glazing Apprenticeship Program approved by the Maryland Department of Labor on November 11, 2025. The program was created to provide a structured and accessible pathway for individuals who want to build a career in the commercial glazing industry. Over the course of three years, apprentices participate in a combination of hands-on field training and a defined curriculum that includes required hours, technical education and a progressive pay structure. This framework ensures participants gain the practical skills and industry knowledge necessary to succeed as professional glaziers.

This initiative is especially important to our company because the glazing industry is facing a significant workforce challenge. There are very few training pipelines dedicated specifically to glazing, and many experienced professionals in the field are nearing retirement. In fact, an estimated 40% of the workforce is expected to retire within the next five years. By investing in a formal apprenticeship program, we are helping to develop the next generation of skilled glaziers while strengthening the long-term sustainability of our trade.

The program also reflects our company’s belief in creating real career opportunities within the construction industry. Many of us have personally experienced the value of learning the trade from the ground up, progressing from entry-level positions into leadership and ownership roles. This apprenticeship program allows us to pass that opportunity forward by giving new talent a clear, structured path to advancement.

What sets our company apart is our proactive commitment to workforce development. Rather than waiting for skilled labor to become available, we are actively building the future of our workforce through a state-approved program that combines mentorship, education, and real-world experience. By doing so, we are not only investing in our company’s future but also contributing to the growth and sustainability of the glazing industry as a whole.

To date we have already hired four young people into our apprenticeship program since November of 2025.

Cheasapeake glazing team — Michael O’Neal with the Chesapeake team.

What products and services do you offer?

Fabrication and installation of curtainwall, storefront, window wall, and aluminum doors
Architectural metals, ACM & aluminum panels
Rain screen assemblies
Ballistic, impact, and fire-rated glass & framing systems
Interior glass walls, STC, and OITC-rated systems
Decorative glass and handrails
Design assist and design build

What are your company's keys to success?

I attribute our company’s success to having a clear vision and a strong culture that our entire team believes in. Everyone shares the same passion for the glazing industry and a commitment to doing what’s right not what’s easiest.

Our success is grounded in strong core values and well-defined structures and systems that create clarity and alignment across the organization. We also place a high value on building meaningful relationships and truly understanding what great partnerships between vendors, clients, architects, owners, and project teams should look like.

A big part of our philosophy is investing in our people both personally and professionally. We want our team members to grow, succeed, and feel fulfilled in what they do. It’s important to us that our people are happy, know they are valued, and understand that we believe in them.

Most importantly, we operate with a team mentality in everything we do. Our team isn’t just the people inside our doors it also includes the professionals we work alongside in the field and the partners we collaborate with on every project. When everyone is aligned and working toward the same goal, it creates a strong foundation for long-term success.

Why did you join NGA?

At Chesapeake Glazing, we joined the National Glass Association because we believe the future of the glass industry depends on collaboration, accountability, and a shared commitment to excellence. We want to be surrounded by like minded professionals who are equally dedicated to seeing the glazing industry grow, improve, and prosper.

NGA provides a platform that brings the industry together. Through education, programs, and recognition, it encourages innovation, professional development, and a higher level of accountability across the field. By participating in this community, we are able to learn from others, share knowledge, and contribute to raising the standard for glazing.

Being part of the NGA aligns with our mission to strengthen the industry, support the next generation of glaziers, and ensure that quality, safety, and craftsmanship continue to move forward.