Employee Spotlight: Jeffrey Florek, Sales Engineer at TMBA
As a Sales Engineer at T.M. Bier & Associates, Jeffrey Florek thrives in a role where no two days are ever the same. From managing large retrofit bids to supporting key accounts like Rockefeller Center and Estée Lauder, Jeff balances technical expertise with the dynamic demands of the sales world. “A typical day doesn’t really exist in this job,” he admits. Between developing proposals, meeting with customers, handling change orders, and fielding countless emails, Jeff has learned to navigate a fast-paced environment where adaptability is key.
Originally from Massachusetts, Jeff holds a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Massachusetts Amherst. His journey into building automation began when he relocated to New York. With a background in HVAC design engineering and a personal fascination with controls—he once built a mini BMS for his apartment—Jeff found a natural fit at TMBA. Starting as an estimator supporting the lead sales engineer, he quickly worked his way up, leveraging his technical strengths to handle complex client needs with confidence.
Jeff credits much of his professional growth to the mentorship he received from Kunal Patel, Vice President of TMBA, who recognized his potential early on and has been instrumental in guiding his career. He also reflects on the unique opportunity to work directly with Rob Bier, TMBA’s CEO and Owner, during a formative period. “Rob helped me through a lot of growth,” Jeff says, expressing gratitude for TMBA’s supportive leadership and the access to decision-makers that a family-owned company provides.
When asked about the projects he’s most proud of, Jeff points to securing major retrofit opportunities like 55 Water Street and managing one of TMBA’s flagship accounts at Rockefeller Center. For him, the job isn’t just about numbers and contracts—it’s about experiencing the hidden side of New York City’s iconic buildings. “Every building is its own unique system. I’ve been on rooftops overlooking St. Patrick’s Cathedral and inside mechanical spaces most people never get to see. That’s a privilege.”
What Jeff values most about TMBA is its culture. “It’s the best I’ve been treated anywhere I’ve worked. Hard work is seen, heard, and rewarded here.” He appreciates how TMBA encourages employees to carve out their own path, while fostering a collaborative spirit within the sales team. “We’re always working to improve. Kunal promotes openness and growth—it makes a real difference, especially in a high-pressure industry like construction.”
Outside of work, Jeff is a self-described “serial hobbyist.” His interests range from 3D printing (with his current project pictured at right) and playing guitar to watercolor painting and running. During our interview, a 3D printer sat in the background—a testament to his love of tinkering. Weekends are often spent with his partner and their dog, or experimenting with his coffee setup. “I’m horribly addicted to coffee,” he laughs, describing his grinder and single-origin bean subscription.
An early riser—thanks in part to his dog—Jeff enjoys unwinding with classic “monster-of-the-week” TV shows like The X-Files and Buffy the Vampire Slayer. When it comes to dream vacations, he’s torn between escaping to a remote cabin in the mountains or exploring the vibrant streets of Tokyo.
Reflecting on his journey so far, Jeff shares a piece of advice that’s stuck with him: “You tend to overestimate what you can do in a week and underestimate what you can do in a year.” It’s a mindset that’s served him well as he continues to grow his career at TMBA—one project, one challenge, and one rooftop view at a time.
