Tom Druml is a vice president for J.F. Cook Co. Inc., Oak Creek. He joined the window and overhead door company 12 years ago after 20 years in the construction industry.

He graduated from Marquette University in 1974 with a civil engineering degree and took a job shortly after as a construction manager for Milwaukee-based The Druml Co. Inc. Druml, 55, stayed there for 10 years before moving on to Menomonee Falls-based USA Builders Inc. in 1984 and Falls Precast Inc., Menomonee Falls, in 1990.

But there’s more to him than construction. Druml, who lives in Brookfield with his wife and two daughters, has been flying planes since he was 19, and he holds an instrument-rated license.

It takes a strong sense of adventure to find relaxation behind the controls of an airplane. But, then again, it’s that thrill-seeking attitude that makes Druml the perfect subject for Wisconsin Builder’s Burning Questions.

What is your current state of mind?

“Optimistic. For every state of the economy, there are always new opportunities that arise.”

Which living person do you most admire?

“Michael Cudahy. I just finished reading his book, ‘Joyworks,’ and his success with not having much of a business plan, little money and the tremendous growth that his firm achieved is a great tribute to his hard work and perseverance.”

What is your greatest extravagance?

“Becoming part owner of an airplane.”

What is your most treasured possession?

“My hot tub, where all my problems melt away for a short period of time.”

What is your greatest fear?

“Failure. I hate to lose.”

How would you like to die?

“I would like to die in my sleep and, hopefully, wake up in
the right location.”

What are your favorite words?

“I say good luck a lot because in life you always need a little.”

What profession would you not like to attempt?

“I think being a neurosurgeon is a tough job — too many wires.”

What is your greatest regret?

“Learning to play the piano was always a dream but never a reality.”

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?

“Learning to actively participate and enjoy a daily exercise program.”

On what occasion do you lie?

“I try not to. It is not a good habit.”

What sound do you love?

“The sound of laughter when people are really enjoying themselves. We all could use a little more in our daily lives.”

What smell do you hate?

“I remember for years driving east on I-94 toward [Milwaukee], and around 25th Street you were always made aware of the smell of yeast — not a good smell.”

What is your idea of perfect happiness?

“Spending time with my wife and two wonderful daughters on a vacation next to a beach.”