Correlux was born out of a shared vision by industry veterans Ivano Tirapelle and Rick Self, representing nearly 60 years of diverse experience in the hard surfaces industry. Our Correlux story began with a mutual commitment to transforming our industry’s distribution landscape, driven by a passion for quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction.
Ivano is from Verona, Italy. He began working in the stone industry in the late 1980s, investing his first 11 years with a renowned company established in 1926. Starting as a Machinist, Ivano transitioned to Electronic Engineer and then took on Technical Management and Production Management roles. These years were invaluable. He did everything from assisting with introducing CNC technology into Verona fabrication to working on custom and high-volume projects installed the world over.
In 2001 Ivano moved to Silicon Valley, bringing his experience to the United States. His time in the USA started as a Project Manager focused on high-end custom homes. In 2005, he obtained his California contractor's license, and by 2007 he had begun his own high-end installation business while at the same time providing consulting services to fabricators across California.
Ivano returned to Italy in 2009, opening a cut-to-size engineering office in Verona. Projects were international, highlighted by large high-end residential projects in and around Moscow. From start to finish, he did everything from digital surveying to installation.
The year 2013 marked Ivano's return to the USA, where he launched Comandulli NA, taking its helm as CEO and partner (2013–2023). Leading with his extensive background, Ivano played a pivotal role in steering Comandulli towards success and its respected place in the North American market.
Ivano's journey is a testament to his deep expertise and commitment to the hard surfaces industry, making him a trusted figure with a rich history. Amongst his current endeavors, Ivano is on the Board of Directors and Treasurer of the industry group SESA (Stone Equipment and Supply Alliance).
Rick's time in the stone industry began in 1999 and includes experience with tooling & commodity supply, slab distribution, fabrication, and shop ownership. His background provides him with an understanding of production, purchasing, operations, tool sales, project and product management, and general management.
Rick’s most recent experience is the 5 years he spent with Terminator Diamond Products (2018–2023), functioning as a hybrid National Sales Director/Chief of Staff. With heightened customer satisfaction and superior quality standards always the goal, Rick’s operational style can be defined by four key principles:
- Building relationships founded on trust.
- Setting, then exceeding expectations.
- Providing the necessary tools for his team's success and allowing them the autonomy to excel.
- Focusing on helping customers increase their bottom line.
While on the fabrication side of the industry, Rick designed and implemented an ERP program that seamlessly integrated P&L forecasting, workforce planning, and productivity analysis for his stone fabrication company—he recognizes the many demands that a modern stone shop puts on all of its employees and ownership. Prior to the stone industry, the US Navy recognized his analytical and problem-solving skills after he conceptualized, created, and implemented automated processes for the Navy’s Personnel Support Detachments throughout the Mediterranean. Rick was also recognized for his contributions during Operation Desert Shield.
Rick's experiences are an extension of his diverse interests and education, including MBA studies at the University of LaVerne's Naples, Italy campus, with a focus on International Management, and undergraduate work centered around Political Science, Business Management, and English.
The Correlux story—our journeys—is one of dedication, integrity, and trust. It is these elements that form the basis of Correlux, and it is our job now to build atop this foundation as we pursue excellence.