James O’Blaney
Principal
James O’Blaney began in the lighting industry in Southern California in 1987 after serving for four and half years in the US Coast Guard. During his time in CA, he worked as a lighting distributor, contractor sales consultant, lighting agent and national account sales consultant before returning to New York City which is where he grew up. He then worked in specification sales for ten years before forming O’Blaney Rinker Associates with Caroline.
WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST AT O’BLANEY RINKER?
The daily opportunities to work with different types of lighting projects and different types of people.
WHAT VALUES DRIVE YOU?
Being responsible for my actions and courage.
WHAT IS SOMETHING OTHERS MAY NOT KNOW ABOUT YOU?
I served on two different ice breakers and patrolled the Bearing Sea and Bearing straights for the United States Coast Guard.
IF YOU COULD HAVE DINNER WITH ANYONE, WHO WOULD IT BE AND WHY?
Jimmy Buffett. He appeared to find a balance in business and recreation. I’d like to know what the secret was.
FAVORITE QUOTE:
“If all the world is a stage, I want better lighting.”
WHAT DO YOU ENJOY WHEN YOU ARE NOT WORKING?
My family, travel, music, eating and eating.
TRAPPED ON A DESERTED ISLAND, WHAT ALBUMS CAN’T YOU LIVE WITHOUT?
Eagles Greatest hits Vol II
Tedeschi Trucks, Live: Everybody’s Talkin’
Steely Dan: Countdown to Ecstasy
Rolling Stones: Sticky Fingers
FAVORITE PODCASTS:
Anything Peter Attia.
DO YOU HAVE ANY RIDICULOUS GOALS IN YOUR LIFE?
Perform in a rock band at Madison Square Garden!