Meet James Rioual, Maintenance Director at Skybrooke at Simsbury, who began his senior living career in 2024 after discovering a passion for maintenance while working alongside his father and brother as a child. James enjoys creating a safe, comfortable environment where residents can truly feel at home, and his favorite part of each day is seeing the joy and comfort his work brings to residents. He values the strong sense of family at Skybrooke and takes pride in helping new residents and their families feel welcomed and supported from the moment they arrive.
Maintenance Director Spotlight – James Rioual
Maintenance Director: James Rioual
Community: Skybrooke at Simsbury
How long have you been working in senior living and what first made you interested in the field?
I started working in senior living in January of 2024, and I first got interested by working with my dad and brother’s building and repairing things around the house as a child peaked my interest in the maintenance field.
What is your favorite part about working in senior living?
Seeing the joy and comfort that we bring to our residents faces is my favorite part!
What is one thing you wish everyone new about being a Maintenance Director?
People often think maintenance is about reacting to emergencies, but the real job is managing hundreds of small details before they become expensive issues. It takes technical knowledge, budgeting, planning, communication, and a lot of problem-solving.
What is one piece of advice you would share with someone thinking of starting a career in senior living?
If you’re starting a job in senior living, take the time to get to know the residents. Learn their names, listen to their stories, and treat them with the same kindness and respect you’d want for your own family. There will be busy days and challenging moments, but remember that the work you do has a direct impact on someone’s quality of life. Be patient, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to lean on your team. If you come in with a caring attitude and a willingness to learn, you’ll do well.
What is the best part about working at Skybrooke or at Northbridge?
The best part about working at Skybrooke is the people. From the residents to the staff, it truly feels like a family. Every day gives you the opportunity to make a positive difference in someone’s life, whether it’s through a simple conversation, solving a problem, or helping create a safe and comfortable place for residents to call home.
What is your favorite way to help a new family during the move in process?
My favorite way to help a new family during the move-in process is by making them feel welcome and easing as much of the stress as possible. Whether it’s making sure the apartment is ready, answering questions, or taking care of the little details before they arrive, I want them to know they’re supported from day one.
Interested in working at Skybrooke at Simsbury?
Click here to apply!