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by Jason Silva January 22, 2025 4 min read
When Chris Breen chose vocational high school at the age of 13, he couldn't have known how that decision would shape his life. Now, with 18 years of experience in metal fabrication—including seven years as the owner of Carriage Hill Craft Metals in Georgetown, Massachusetts—Chris’ journey is a testament to hard work, creativity, and taking risks.
In January 2025, the 1620 Workwear crew paid Chris a visit to learn more about his path to business ownership, his advice for aspiring tradespeople, and how his tools - including his well-worn 1620 gear - play a key role in his daily work.
Chris’ knack for creativity and building things set him apart as a kid growing up in Massachusetts. “I could draw, visualize, and create things differently than most kids,” he recalls. Choosing vocational school over a more traditional route was a pivotal decision. “It was the best decision I ever made,” Chris describes. "Looking back, it's wild to think you're making such a big call at that age."
At vocational school, Chris turned his focus toward metal fabrication, where he spent four years learning the trade and honing his skills. After graduating, he started working at a shop in Newburyport, where he spent over a decade perfecting his craft and forming connections that would later prove invaluable.
In 2018, Chris launched Carriage Hill Craft Metals in Amesbury, Massachusetts from a hilltop brick mill building best known for having produced Carriage’s throughout the late 1800s - hence the name of Chris’ new company.
Three years later, in 2021, Chris moved the operation to neighboring Georgetown, Massachusetts where he would quickly seize an opportunity to expand. “That same month, we purchased Port Sheet Metal, an established mom-and-pop sheet metal shop that gave us access to new contacts and larger equipment.”
Since launching the business, Chris has grown Carriage Hill Craft Metals steadily. “I’ve been in this particular building for almost three and a half years, and we’re already outgrowing it,” Chris shares. His dedication and work ethic have been key drivers of his success since day one. "Failure was never an option," he says. "I got in early, left late, and put everything I had into this business."
Running a business comes with its challenges, and for Chris, balancing work and family life has been the toughest. “When I was younger, I’d work weekends and late nights without hesitation,” he says. “But now, with two young boys, I have to remind myself that the work will get done. Family comes first.”
Despite the demands, Chris finds immense joy in his craft. “Metal fabrication isn’t just a job for me; it’s an art form,” he says. He particularly enjoys creating intricate designs and grindings—landscape scenes etched into aluminum sheets using an angle grinder. “I used to make them during coffee breaks at my old job. It’s therapeutic, and there’s no stress—just me and the work.”
Chris also draws inspiration from other craftsmen and the satisfaction of his clients. “When a customer is blown away by a finished project, it motivates me to keep pushing forward,” he shares.
At Carriage Hill Craft Metals, the shear—a tool used daily for cutting sheet metal—is a vital part of the operation.
As for personal gear, Chris swears by 1620 Workwear’s Double Knee Utility Pants. “They’re durable, comfortable, and perfect for the work I do. My first pair is over six years old and has held up through welding, grinding, and everything else this job throws at them.”
For those considering a career in the trades, Chris advises thinking long-term. “Whatever trade you choose—welding, carpentry, plumbing—ask yourself if it’s scalable, profitable, and something you’re passionate about,” he says. “The trades aren’t for everyone, but they’re incredibly rewarding if you’re willing to work hard.”
Hard work is a mantra Chris lives by. “It sounds corny, but if you work harder than anyone else, you can’t fail. When I started my shop, I knew failure wasn’t an option. I was all in—getting in early, staying late, and putting everything I had into it.”
If he could offer advice to his younger self, Chris says he would’ve started his business even sooner. “I wish I’d taken the leap earlier, but the lessons I learned along the way were invaluable.”
Chris’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and creative expression. From a teenager with a love for building to the successful owner of Carriage Hill Craft Metals, his journey proves that success is not about avoiding mistakes—it’s about learning from them, building connections, and staying dedicated to your craft.
“No matter what you do, work hard, stay inspired, and keep moving forward,” Chris advises. “The rest will follow.”
Visit CarriageHillCraftMetals.com and connect with @carriagehillcraftmetals on Instagram and Facebook.For durable, high-performance workwear, visit 1620USA.com to find the gear trusted by Chris and countless other tradespeople.
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