Elevator Careers – Détails, épisodes et analyse

Intro:
Today we are talking about Phoenix Modular Elevator with with Chuck Tyler, Director of Operations and Business Development. 
Phoenix Modular has been in business for 15 years and primarily serves North America. They are growing rapidly in an innovative side of the industry. 
Phoenix Modular is able to pre-manufacture and ship their product, cutting down site impact and installation by 75 percent." They have an innovative product and approach that is driving healthy growth and industry change.

Summary:
Chuck Tyler, Director of Operations and Business Development at Phoenix Modular Elevator, discusses the benefits of modular elevators, which reduce site impact and installation time by 75%. Phoenix Modular pre-manufactures and ships elevators, cutting down on-site work. They specialize in 2-4 stop hydraulic elevators, with a maximum height of around 50 feet. Modular elevators offer safety, quality control, and efficiency, particularly in tight or time-constrained projects. They also provide flexibility for independent elevator contractors, offering just the hoistway or the complete system. Phoenix Modular aims to grow its customer base by educating the industry about the advantages of modular elevators.

Intro:
Today our guest is Chuck Tyler, Director of Operations and Business Development with Phoenix Modular Elevator. Chuck started his career in the field at 18 and with a family history in the trade, every meal he has ever eaten has been provided by this industry. Chuck loves what he does and is excited to be growing in a new niche of the industry.

Summary:
Chuck Tyler, Director of Operations and Business Development at Phoenix Modular Elevator, discusses his career journey in the elevator industry, which began at age 18 with a family history in the trade. He emphasizes the importance of safety as a mindset and responsibility, noting the industry's shift towards prioritizing safety. Chuck highlights his mentorship by his father and other industry veterans, and the value of planning and efficiency in his work. He advises newcomers to listen and learn, and experienced professionals to find fulfillment in their roles, suggesting that personal satisfaction is key to career success.

Intro:
Steve Phillips is the Chief Operating Officer at Southern Elevator based in Greensboro, NC. Steve started his career outside of the elevator industry, gaining knowledge and experience in operations, from the military, NASCAR, emergency services and management for over 20 years. When Steve started at Southern, he found that the management skills and knowledge he had acquired elsewhere were perfectly transferrable to the elevator industry. Steve has learned a lot since starting and plans to retire from this industry. He has learned to love the elevators and is excited to continue to grow and innovate.

Summary:
Steve Phillips, COO of Southern Elevator, discusses his transition from the military and NASCAR to the elevator industry, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and respect. He highlights the challenges of adapting to the industry's unique culture and the necessity of understanding union agreements. Phillips shares his approach to management, focusing on crisis management, respectful communication, and fostering a culture of professionalism. He advocates for hiring individuals with strong leadership skills over those with elevator experience. Phillips also stresses the importance of balancing service with technology to ensure long-term sustainability and customer satisfaction.

INTRO:
Chris Miller is the General Manager with Kone in Salt Lake City, UT. Chris joined the elevator industry after several years in the US Air Force, where he took to heart the Core Values: INTEGRITY FIRST, SERVICE BEFORE SELF and EXCELLENCE IN ALL WE DO. Chris loves what he does and has come to know that the elevator business is truly a "team sport"; nobody can succeed alone. Chris is a student of leadership and strives to become a better leader every day.

SUMMARY:
Chris Miller, General Manager at Kone in Salt Lake City, discusses his journey from the US Air Force to the elevator industry. He emphasizes the importance of teamwork and leadership, influenced by his military background. Miller highlights the core values of integrity, service, and excellence, and the necessity of adapting leadership styles to different contexts. He shares insights on building trust with union members, the importance of equal authority, and the significance of humility and self-sacrifice in leadership. Miller advises new industry entrants to embrace the challenge and learn through experience, as the elevator industry offers a diverse and dynamic environment for leadership development.

Intro:
Emerald Kuhns, Executive Director of NAESA International. Emerald joined NAESA after working in sales leadership and she has never looked back. After 8 years administering the QEI certification program, Emerald was promoted to Assistant Executive Director and in 2023, she became the Executive Director. Emerald loves the fact that the elevator industry is one big family. She is passionate about safety and wants each and every person to be safe and return home at the end of the day

Summary:
Emerald Kuhns, Executive Director of NAESA International, emphasized the importance of safety in the elevator industry. She joined NAESA after a career in sales and has been with the organization for nearly 14 years, starting with QEI certification applications and progressing to Assistant Executive Director and then Executive Director. NAESA, founded in 1971, certifies and educates elevator inspectors, conducting about 75 classes annually. Kuhns highlighted the need for more inspectors due to an aging workforce and launched a new inspector training program. She also discussed the challenges of being a woman in a male-dominated industry and the supportive nature of the industry as a family.

Erin Scott is the Chief Operating Officer-US Inspections at ATIS. Erin joined the elevator industry after being a Naval fighter pilot and aviation maintenance duty officer in the US Military and quickly found her niche. Erin is passionate about learning as much as possible and knows the value of asking questions. Although she wondered if she was in the right place at first, Erin found many people who were as eager to teach as she was to learn. Erin loves the industry and loves being connected with those who are solving problems and making the magic happen.

Summary:

Career path from military to elevator industry.

  - Erin Scott found her niche in the elevator industry after leaving the military, where she had a strong support network.
  - Erin is passionate about learning and values asking questions, finding many eager teachers in the industry.

Career transition from military to civilian life, with a focus on Erin's experience in aviation and elevator maintenance.

  - Erin describes her experience in the military, including being an F-18 pilot, and how it translates to the elevator industry.
  - Erin explains how her training in aviation management and maintenance applies to her work in the elevator industry, highlighting the similarities between the two fields.
  - Erin found a job that felt like home, with a team aspect that translated from military to civilian life.
  - Erin considered working for airlines but found a better fit with Otis.

Transitioning from military to civilian life and career in the elevator industry.

  - Erin discusses challenges of transitioning from military to civilian life, including adapting to new work environment and hierarchy.
  - Erin describes how civilian work culture differs from military structure, with mechanics having more autonomy and fixed work hours.
  - Erin shares her experience working in the elevator industry, highlighting the importance of understanding the value of the service provided to buildings and the challenges of proving one's knowledge and expertise in the field.
  - Erin describes her first job as a territory manager, where she had to learn about elevator systems and mechanics, and how she was able to gain the trust of her team by showing genuine interest and asking questions.

Learning elevator industry, challenges in first year, and building trust with customers.

  - Erin built trust with customers by explaining system upgrades and delays.
  - Trust established in one territory helped cement role in customer relationships.
  - Matthew Allred shares his experience transitioning from the aviation industry to the elevator industry, finding it challenging at first but eventually enjoying the balance and variety of the new role.
  - Erin describes the first year of the transition as a "dance," with many moving parts to balance and learn, but eventually feeling confident in the new role.

Mentorship and career growth in the tech industry.

  - Erin credits Dorothy Monahan as a long-term influencer who started in the industry as an admin clerk and became a leader in the field.
  - Erin mentions mentors who helped her navigate challenges in her career, including Dan Tripp and Bobby Campbell.

Gender bias in the workplace and a humorous anecdote about a pregnant woman delivering a repair box in Boston.

  - Erin shares experiences of gender bias in the workplace, including being assumed to be on the sales side based on gender.
  - Erin emphasizes the importance of allyship and listening to marginalized voices in creating a more inclusive environment.
  - Matthew Allred shares a humorous anecdote about Erin delivering a small parts box to a mechanic in Boston while pregnant.

INTRO: 
Nathan Hall is the Chief Elevator Enthusiast at Vasile Elevator, a designer,  manufacturer, and installer of premium commercial elevator interiors, cab shells, entrances and doors. Vasile Elevator was started with old-world grit, determination and an absolute dedication to quality. Nathan Joined Vasile 13 years ago, and with his background in the hospitality industry, he has brought passion, enthusiasm and an ever present desire to learn and improve.

SUMMARY:
Nathan Hall and Matthew Allred shared their experiences and insights on navigating the elevator industry. Hall discussed his 13-year journey at Vasile Elevator, emphasizing the importance of dedication, quality, and passion. Allred highlighted the growth and maturity of Vasile Elevator, crediting its success to its ability to understand the industry tapestry and provide consultative services. Both speakers emphasized the importance of passion and expertise in serving clients, particularly in the high-end condo market. They also discussed the challenges of balancing work and personal life and shared personal stories of immigration and success. Finally, they offered practical advice for entrepreneurs looking to establish themselves in the audio production industry, including the importance of personal branding and knowing one's numbers.

INTRDUCTION:
Today our guest is Mike Loeffler, Senior Vice President/General Manager with VDA Vertical Transportation Consulting. Mike started in the industry working in the field and loved it from the very beginning.  He values that early learning as being key to his success and continues to learn everyday even well into his career. Mike enjoys working as a consultant and loves being able to assist both clients and contractors in finding mutually beneficial solutions to projects and / or issues and help foster relationships; his only regret is that wishes he found consulting sooner.

SUMMARY:

• Mike Loeffler's career paths and industry insights
•   - Mike Loeffler regrets not surrounding himself with more knowledgeable people earlier in his career
    - Mike Loeffler values early learning as key to success in the elevator industry
    - Mike Loeffler's mechanical skills from motocross and carpentry helped him in his elevator job
• Mike Loeffler's career path and mentorship in the elevator industry
•   - Mike Loeffler describes his 44-year career in the elevator industry, mentioning the various roles he's held and the camaraderie he's experienced
    - Mike Loeffler highlights the competitive aspect of his work, citing the need to work harder to complete projects faster when other teams were involved
    - Mike Loeffler describes his career journey, including working as a construction foreman, Operations Manager, and consultant
    - Mike Loeffler highlights mentors who invested in him, such as his first manager and Arian Steve Bailey, and discusses his motivation for taking an opportunity in North Dakota
• Challenges and conflicts in the elevator industry
•   - Mike Loeffler worked on modernizing space shuttle launch pads at Cape Canaveral, which became a 15-month project with $1.5 million in change orders
    - Mike Loeffler found it interesting to learn about what goes on outside of the elevator story at the f8, despite having no qualms about spending money
    - Mike Loeffler describes conflicting issues within his previous company, leading to a decision to become a consultant
    - Mike Loeffler finds fulfillment in finding common ground with clients and elevator companies, despite initial frustration
• Contractor agreements and maintenance services
•   - Challenging negotiations arise when clients want new components or changes to existing agreements, and contractors must justify the costs and benefits
    - Mike Loeffler describes common scenarios where clients call for help mid-project, such as elevator issues or maintenance agreements not being met
    - Mike Loeffler explains that some companies prioritize consulting services over maintenance agreements, which can lead to higher costs in the long run
    - Mike Loeffler highlights the importance of having a comprehensive maintenance agreement that covers most aspects of elevator maintenance, rather than a basic oil and grease contract
• Challenges in construction management, including client resistance and team collaboration
•   - Mike Loeffler discusses challenges of working with condominium boards, including resistance to recommended solutions and changing board members
    - Mike Loeffler reflects on his 44-year career, suggesting he has learned from every situation but may not change anything if given the chance
    - Mike Loeffler emphasizes the importance of having the right people on the team, with the right skills and expertise
    - Mike Loeffler regrets not surrounding himself with more knowledgeable people earlier in his career
• Career development, relationships, and work ethic in the elevator industry

INTRODUCTION:

Jeremy Metzger is the CEO of Axxiom Elevator. Jeremy graduated from Penn State and joined the elevator industry with Kone as a Sales Rep, with his first assignment in Tampa FL.  After Kone, Jeremy spent over 15 years at Otis in multiple management roles and following Otis, Jeremy spent two years as COO of Oracle Elevator. In 2023, Jeremy became one of the founders and CEO of Axxiom Elevator. Jeremy is excited about the future and is looking forward to partnering with independent owners who are seeking the support of a partner to help them take their businesses to the next level."

SUMMARY: 
Building and selling elevator companies with CEO Jeremy Metzger.
Jeremy Metzger discusses building and selling elevator companies, with a focus on commitment and financial reward.

Starting a new elevator company with private equity investment.
Matthew Allred and Jeremy Metzger discuss their experiences in the elevator industry.
Jeremy Metzger and Matthew Allred acquired 5 elevator companies in 9 months, fully acquiring 2 in Florida and 2 in Arizona.
Metzger and Allred seek founder-backed companies to partner with, keeping founders involved in the business for long-term success.

Prioritizing customer needs and expectations in elevator maintenance services.
Jeremy Metzger and Matthew Allred discuss the value of Axiom's customer-centric approach to industrial maintenance services.
Axiom prioritizes monthly visits and personalized service to meet customers' needs, differentiating it from competitors.
Jeremy Metzger and Matthew Allred discuss the importance of clear communication and setting expectations with customers.
They emphasize the need to be upfront about what customers can expect from their elevator service, and to address any gaps in communication that may lead to misunderstandings.

Challenges and strategies for integrating multiple elevator companies.
Key challenge in acquiring and merging companies: ensuring knowledge sharing and integration.
Jeremy Metzger discusses efforts to streamline processes and support growth for acquired companies.
Metzger highlights the importance of back-office support to free up time for owners to focus on core business tasks.

Building and growing a successful private equity firm.
Matthew Allred and Jeremy Metzger discuss running a business, building relationships, and helping other business owners achieve their goals.
They appreciate the flexibility and autonomy of their roles, as well as the opportunity to work with long-time colleagues and build a successful business.
Jeremy Metzger: Vision for Axiom is to build a company he's proud of, doing things the right way.
Metzger hopes to stay on and continue growing the business with multiple private equity firms.

Entrepreneurship, industry advocacy, and safety in the elevator industry.
Matthew Allred and Jeremy Metzger discuss the challenges and rewards of buying and selling businesses.
Metzger advises listeners to be prepared for hard work and financial risk, but also highlights potential rewards.
Jeremy Metzger shares insights on staying safe and being prepared in the elevator industry.
He emphasizes the importance of being an advocate for the industry and protecting its values.

INTRO:
Jeremy Metzger, CEO of Axxiom Elevator.  Jeremy graduated from Penn State and joined the elevator industry with Kone as a Sales Rep, with his first assignment in Tampa FL.  After Kone, Jeremy spent over 15 years at Otis in multiple management roles and following Otis, Jeremy spent two years as COO of Oracle Elevator.  In 2023, Jeremy became one of the founders and CEO of Axxiom Elevator. Jeremy is excited about the future and is looking forward to partnering with independent owners who are seeking the support of a partner to help them take their businesses to the next level.

SUMMARY:

• Matthew Allred and Jeremy Metzger discussed their early days in the elevator industry, including their recruitment processes and first job experiences.
• Jeremy Metzger shared how Kone's job description stood out due to the offer of a laptop, and how the q&a days of recruitment found individuals with the right mindset for starting a career.
• Jeremy Metzger joined Tony as a sales rep in Tampa, Florida, learning the business and delivering maintenance contracts.
• Sales techniques and customer relationships in elevator maintenance industry.
• Jeremy Metzger learned quickly in the field, enjoying customer management and sales.
• Service sales side of business provided a more rounded approach, including repair and maintenance.
• Jeremy Metzger describes finding new business as a challenging and longer-term process, often involving cold calls and cultivating relationships.
• Commission-based sales were introduced later in Jeremy Metzger's career, with a focus on selling as the reward rather than just the potential for more money.
• Sales commissions, mentorship, and safety in the elevator industry.
•  Jeremy Metzger emphasizes the importance of balance in sales commission structures, ensuring both short-term incentives and long-term goals are met.
• Elevator industry typically operates with a base salary and account management responsibilities, rather than solely relying on commission-based sales.
• Jeremy Metzger mentions Bill Motley, a mentor who taught him bad habits and had experience in the industry.
• Jeremy Metzger highlights the hazards of the elevator industry and the importance of safety, after the death of his mentor Bill Motley.
• Safety in the elevator industry, emphasizing its importance and how it has evolved over time.
• Jeremy Metzger credits Otis with driving the industry's shift towards prioritizing safety, citing their comprehensive safety program and industry leadership.
• Industry-wide adoption of safety measures, including safety bags and equipment, has become a key metric for companies like Conan and ECA, with a focus on ensuring mechanics' safety.
• Matthew Allred and Jeremy Metzger discuss the importance of safety in the workplace and the need to prioritize it over other considerations. 
• Jeremy Metzger shares a personal experience of a serious accident that could have been avoided if safety protocols were followed.
• Importance of being responsive and customer-focused in the elevator industry.
• Jeremy Metzger emphasizes importance of being responsive and returning calls promptly.
• Jeremy Metzger's philosophy is to make customers feel important and valued.
• Jeremy Metzger stresses the importance of being quick and responsive in customer service.
• Jeremy Metzger shares insights on starting a career in the elevator industry.
• He advises young people to be open to learning and humble.
• The industry offers growth opportunities despite economic fluctuations.

MA

Matthew Allred

2 minutes ago

@Otter, please rewrite the summary including speaker names

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