How Baseball Taught Andrew Ciolli to Lead in Business
Not everyone goes from the baseball diamond to the boardroom. But for Andrew Ciolli, that’s exactly how his journey played out.
Born in Cleveland, Ohio, on March 28, 1996, Ciolli always knew two things: he loved sports, and he was driven to succeed. Now living and working in Woodbridge Township, New Jersey, Ciolli is making his mark in sales and supply chain engineering. He’s no longer chasing fastballs. Today, he’s chasing results, relationships, and operational excellence.
“I learned early that success comes from preparation and adaptability,” Ciolli says. “That’s true whether you’re facing a pitcher or managing a logistics system.”
Early Life and College: Foundations in Discipline and Drive
Ciolli grew up as an only child in a tight-knit household. His family valued hard work, personal growth, and doing things the right way. Those values took root during his time at Saint Ignatius High School, and later at Mercyhurst University in Erie, Pennsylvania.
At Mercyhurst, Ciolli studied business and honed his leadership skills. “College taught me to think clearly and communicate better,” he says. “But being on a team—that’s where I learned how to lead.”
Drafted by the Orioles: Baseball Shaped His Mindset
In 2018, Ciolli was drafted by the Baltimore Orioles. He played professional baseball for three seasons. The experience gave him lessons no classroom could.
“Being part of a pro team showed me what pressure really feels like,” Ciolli shares. “You have to stay focused, adapt fast, and always support your teammates. That mindset stuck with me.”
Even though his pro sports career didn’t last forever, it gave him something just as valuable—mental toughness.
“Baseball taught me resilience,” he says. “You fail a lot more than you succeed, but you keep showing up. That’s the game.”
Career Pivot: From Pro Sports to the Supply Chain
After baseball, Ciolli entered a new world: aerospace supply chain engineering. He started at Avionic Instruments, where he optimized procurement and logistics processes.
“Engineering wasn’t something I saw coming,” he admits. “But I was curious, and I liked solving problems. My job was all about making systems work better.”
His job involved coordinating materials, inventory, and processes behind the scenes. It wasn’t glamorous, but it was essential. Ciolli thrived on the challenge of creating order from complexity.
“You learn how every small part affects the whole operation,” he says. “It’s like being a catcher. You have to see the whole field and keep everything moving.”
Sales Leadership: Inside Sales Manager at Cad Energetics
Today, Ciolli leads client relationships and internal sales efforts at Cad Energetics as an Inside Sales Manager. He connects customer needs with the right product solutions—and ensures the team delivers.
“I like the people side of the business,” he says. “Sales is more than numbers. It’s about solving problems and building trust.”
His technical background helps him communicate clearly with engineers and clients alike. “It’s not just about talking,” he explains. “It’s about listening. That’s how you build relationships that last.”
Life Outside the Office: Coaching and the Outdoors
Ciolli doesn’t just lead at work. He also spends time coaching baseball, mentoring young players on teamwork and resilience.
“Coaching keeps me grounded,” he says. “It’s a way to give back and stay connected to the game that gave me so much.”
He’s also an avid tennis player and outdoor enthusiast. Whether it’s hiking, running, or exploring trails with his German Shepherd, he values staying active and connected to nature.
“Being outdoors helps me recharge,” he says. “That balance makes me better at work too.”
Leading with Integrity and Vision
Recently, Ciolli completed the OCIA program and was confirmed in the Catholic Church. For him, faith is another layer of his personal growth.
“It was something I wanted to do for myself,” he shares. “It’s part of continuing to grow, not just in my career, but as a person.”
Looking ahead, Ciolli’s focus is on long-term impact, both in business and his community. He’s not chasing titles or spotlight—he’s chasing results.
“I want to be known as someone who does the right thing, even when no one’s watching,” he says. “That’s how you lead.”
Why Andrew Ciolli Stands Out in Sales and Engineering
In a field where many focus on short-term wins, Ciolli plays the long game. His ability to combine technical thinking with people skills sets him apart. So does his mindset, built from years of high-level competition.
Whether he’s managing supply chains, closing a sale, or mentoring a young athlete, Andrew Ciolli brings focus, discipline, and purpose to everything he does.
“Whatever field you’re in, show up every day ready to learn and ready to serve,” he says. “That’s how you grow. That’s how you lead.”
Read more:
From Dugouts to Deal-Making: The Andrew Ciolli Story
