About Us

About Us

THIS HISTORY OF MERIT

Merit was founded in Tampa, FL, by Jeff Clarke and Ed Repins, in 1994 and built on a commitment to do whatever it takes to exceed customer expectations. We take pride in our work and the reputation we have earned. We have been recognized by the Associated Builders and Contractors and AGC for our outstanding commitment to safety and quality. Our many projects represent some of the most prestigious buildings in the community. They include sports stadiums and arenas, international airports, luxury high rise condominiums, 4 and 5 star hotels, hospitals, museums, and manufacturing facilities.

“I am thankful for the work that your crews have done and are doing in the transformation of the Arena! Eli and Dwayne are great! “

Ray Chandler, Vice President – Design & Construction
Tampa Bay Lightning Hockey Club

 

The People of Merit

Jeff Clarke and Ed Repins

Jeff Clarke graduated from The University of Florida in 1983–Ed Repins, from The University of Wisconsin in 1982. Both gained significant industry experience as Project Managers following college graduation. In 1994, they co-founded Merit Professional Coatings as a small, start-up operation. Education, ongoing experience and business acumen all made it possible for Jeff and Ed to develop well-honed, industry-specific management systems which allowed them to grow the business into the successful commercial painting operation it is today.

Chris Parrish
Chris is a native Houstonian who received a congressional appointment to, and graduated from, the United States Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point. After getting married, he came ashore to start a career in construction. He has over 32 years of experience in home building, land development, commercial construction, and commercial painting and waterproofing. As President of Merit Professional Coatings – Houston, Chris has provided the painting for several high profile projects at George Bush Intercontinental Airport, Hobby Airport, Federal Express Cypress Distribution Center, Johnson Space Center, and the Kyle Field Renovation at Texas A&M, just to name a few. Chris is active in the community and has been a key figure in the fight against human trafficking with Redeemed Ministries for many years. Away from work you will find Chris on the water sailing his 38 foot Beneteau First 375 sailboat and spending time with his wife Beverly, their 7 children, and 5 grandchildren.  
Roy Thompson

Roy has owned Merit Professional Coatings - Boise, with his partner Tony Ghinazzi, since 2013. He serves as President and oversees all field operations. Roy is active in the Treasure Valley construction community and is a member of the Idaho AGC where he sits on the Safety Committee. Roy attended Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University where he earned a BS in Management of Technical Operations. He also holds a Systems Engineering Certificate from Cal Tech (California Technical Institute).

Prior to opening MPC – Boise, Roy spent 26 years with Northrop Grumman where he held a Top-Secret Security clearance from the Department of Defense. Prior to leaving NGC, he was the Engineering Lead/Project Manager overseeing the coatings systems for the B2 “Stealth” Bomber and the F-35 Lighting II Stealth Fighter. Mr. Thompson could tell you more, but he would have to kill you.

When not attending his children’s sporting events, Roy enjoys fishing, camping, and exploring Idaho’s vast wilderness.

Tony Ghinazzi

Tony Ghinazzi earned his degree in Engineering Technology from Southern Utah University where he also played collegiate soccer. His career has taken him from Northrop Grumman, where he was involved in the B2 “Stealth” Bomber painting program, to Merit Professional Coatings where he is Vice President. During his time on the Stealth Bomber project Tony received a Top-Secret security clearance from the United States Department of Defense. In 2013, Tony parlayed his management experience and paint knowledge into ownership of Merit Professional Coatings – Boise. Merit has quickly become one of the top painting, waterproofing, and intumescent contractors in the Treasure Valley. Tony is Merits waterproofing specialist. Tony has served on the ABC Inland Pacific Chapter Board for Southern Idaho and is active in the community. He and his wife Brie have 2 children and coach youth soccer in the evenings and weekends and can always be found tailgating at BSU football games in the Fall.