In 1957, East End was birthed with $4,000 in seed money Arthur V. Mascilli Sr. raised by cashing in a veterans life insurance policy. What seemed at the time to be the biggest mistake of his life turned out to be the greatest hedge any entrepreneur could ever make. More than 50 years later, East End averages a multi-million dollar annual backlog and an enviable client list throughout Southwestern Pennsylvania.
Arthur began his apprenticeship in Italy at the age of 15, just prior to immigrating to America. After his arrival, he enrolled in Connelly Technical Institute at 17 to begin his 5-year academic training and formal apprenticeship in the plumbing trade, obtaining his Journeyman license through the Allegheny County Health Department.
Just one week after receiving his Journeyman license, Arthur was drafted for the Korean Conflict. He served in both the Construction and Combat battalions of the US Army Corps of Engineers, quickly rising to the rank of Staff Sergeant, and was honorably discharged after being wounded in battle — receiving the Purple Heart. His military experience honed his construction expertise and developed him into a strong, confident and effective leader.
Back home, Arthur earned his Master license, and at 27 opened a small plumbing and heating shop specializing in residential service. Along with his wife Florinda and her disciplined approach to the company financials, building the business became a grass-roots effort. As the company grew in technical competence — winning the trust of customers, general contractors and architects — it began to take on larger and more complex projects.
Sons Arthur Jr. and Anthony joined on a permanent basis — both Registered Master Plumbers with degrees from the University of Pittsburgh and Duquesne University, and both with executive and engineering careers at prominent local firms behind them. Together they bring a wealth of operations, finance, quality assurance and engineering project management expertise to the company.
In 2020, our founder Arthur V. Mascilli Sr. passed away, leaving behind a profound legacy. While we deeply miss his presence, his spirit remains the bedrock of East End. Today, the next generation proudly carries the business forward, strictly guided by the unchanging values he instilled in us: an uncompromising work ethic, absolute integrity, and a deep commitment to taking care of our families, our dedicated employees, and ultimately, our incredible customers.
While remaining a leader in commercial mechanical construction and services, East End has expanded its focus to deliver premier plumbing solutions to residential clients. Under the leadership of Arthur Jr. and Anthony, daily operations, estimating, and project management run seamlessly across the company. At the helm, Florinda continues to guide the financial vision, ensuring our core foundation remains as strong and reliable as it was in 1957.
With the organization’s strong foundation still firmly in place and the next generation on board, the Mascilli family is poised to take East End into its next 50 years and beyond.
