Directly after Wharton Graduate School, Mr. McNeil pursued his interest in manufacturing and started an electronics company.  In 1979, Mr. McNeil joined Penguin Industries as Sales Manager.  Four years later, he purchased Penguin Industries and remained as Vice President of Sales until assuming the responsibilities of President in 1988.  In this role Mr. McNeil guided the company through various acquisitions and divestitures and directed the distribution of talent within the combined organization to maximize the value of each asset. In 1997, Penguin sold one of its eight manufacturing companies and used the proceeds to start its new direction into real estate.

Also, during this time Mr. McNeil remained active in his family’s holding company, Claneil Enterprises, which owned various manufacturing companies and real estate holdings.  The real estate portfolio included total ownership or partnerships of Sugarbush and Glen Ellen Ski Resorts, Samoset Resort, U.S. Cinemas, Wings Field, Airport Industrial Mall, Realen Homes, Terramics, and Ryan Homes.  Mr. McNeil has served on the boards of United Cerebral Palsy, Claneil Foundation, Boy Scouts, Ducks Unlimited, Handi-Crafters, Community Volunteers in Medicine, and others.