In this conversation, Ryan Schuett and I discuss his role as the business manager of the International Union of Elevator Constructors, Local 31 in Houston, Texas. Ryan addresses the significance of mentorship, the challenges of recruiting, and the importance of perseverance. We also discuss his own journey as a first-generation elevator constructor, and he offers his advice for aspiring elevator constructors.

Chapters:

00:00 Passion and Dedication in the Elevator Trade

07:31 The Role of a Business Manager

10:21 Path to Becoming an Elevator Constructor

18:50 Challenges and Opportunities in Recruitment

24:02 Mentorship and Community in the Trade

33:23 Preparing for Success in the Elevator Industry

40:45 The Future of the Elevator Trade

Resources:
Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/@elevatorcareers/
Connect With Us: linktr.ee/AllredGroup

A Message From Our Sponsor:
Looking for top-tier talent to join your team? Call The Allred Group for your elevator recruiting needs! With a deep network and unmatched industry expertise, we quickly connect you with skilled professionals who are ready to elevate your team.  Let us handle the hiring process, so you can focus on growing your business with the best in the industry. Reach out today, and let us help you take your business to new heights!
To contact us go to: https://allredgroup.com

This episode brings together advice and lessons from four consultants in the elevator trade that were previously interviewed on the podcast, each with their own unique path and perspective. Featuring Mike Balsamo from VDA, Joe McAnulty who serves as chair of the Elevator and Escalator Safety Foundation (EESF), Matt Jackson with Blackstone Elevator Consulting, and John Koshak with Elevator Safety Solutions, sharing advice they've learned throughout their careers.

Chapters:

0:00 Intro

1:47 Mike Balsamo: Communication

3:17 Joe McAnulty: Getting involved

6:30 Matt Jackson: Partnership and Integrity

9:00 John Koshak: Honesty and Tenacity

11:33 Outro

Resources:

Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/@elevatorcareers/

Connect With Us: linktr.ee/AllredGroup

A Message from our Sponsor: 

Looking for top-tier talent to join your team? Call The Allred Group for your elevator recruiting needs! With a deep network and unmatched industry expertise, we quickly connect you with skilled professionals who are ready to elevate your team.  Let us handle the hiring process, so you can focus on growing your business with the best in the industry. Reach out today, and let us help you take your business to new heights!

To contact us go to: https://allredgroup.com

A Message from our Sponsor: 

If you're interested in the opportunity to franchise, contact Jason Booher, the franchise manager, at jason@elevators.com or visit https://www.elevators.com/franchise to learn more.

Intro:

This episode of Elevator Tools & Tech is brought to you by Nationwide Lifts, a leader in residential elevators and one of the first companies in the industry to build a large-scale franchise model centered on local ownership and customer care. I interviewed co-founder Andy Darnley to talk about what sets residential work apart, how diversification has fueled Nationwide Lifts’ growth, and opportunities for elevator technicians to step into entrepreneurship through launching a franchise with Nationwide Lifts. 

Eric Burket started in the elevator industry in 1997 with General Elevator, working in Hagerstown, Maryland.  Eric quickly found his passion for the industry and has spent 25 years in various sales roles and locations, including Regional Vice President with TK in New York City. Today, Eric is the President of ELEV8 Elevator Consulting.  Eric loves what he does and believes that hard work is the key to success.

Rick Milefchik is the Chief Operating Officer of Access Elevator Supply in San Francisco and Quality Elevator Products in Chicago. Rick started in the industry in 1981 with Montgomery Elevator as a 16 year old high school student, and grew from there. He spent 32 years with Montgomery/Kone and 8 more with ECS Corporation before taking on his current role. Rick met his wife of 33 plus years at Montgomery, and his three children work for him today with AES and QEP. Rick has accomplished much in his career, and all without ever leaving his hometown.

Jeff Smith started his career in new installation and modernization sales with, then, Thyssenkrupp Elevator, in Richmond Virginia.  Over the past 20 years, Jeff has held various sales and sales leadership roles, and has also spent time P&L.  Jeff is currently the Regional Business Development Manager with Smartrise Engineering for much of the Northeast.  Jeff is full of enthusiasm for the elevator industry and is passionate about the Customer Experience and helping develop the next generation of industry experts.

Joel Frohlinger grew up in an elevator family in New York City and is a proud graduate of the University of Oklahoma. Joel has worked in the elevator industry for over 56 years; he started as a helper, ran his own business for about 34 years and still works as a consultant. Joel loves the work he does and the wonderful people who have become life-long friends.

Joey Austin is the president of Atlantic Elevators, a residential elevator contractor in North Carolina. Joey started as a helper in 2003 and quickly moved up to being a foreman. In 2009, Joey moved to the Bay area of CA and in 2012, he moved to Virginia, where he continued to perfect his skills. In 2014, Joey was offered an opportunity to buy into an ownership position, which he was excited to do. For the past four years, Joey has had full leadership control of the company. He loves the work he is doing and continues to grow."

Loannie Reyes, also known as the “Elevator Chick," is the CEO of Authentic Elevator Services, headquartered in New York City. Loannie and her husband Quinn are originally from Puerto Rico and came to New York with the dream of learning the business and starting an elevator company in Puerto Rico. In addition to being the CEO, Loannie picked up the tools of the trade and is a mechanic and inspector; she can often be found performing repairs, troubleshooting and inspecting. Loannie loves the elevator industry and is passionate about teaching, training and developing everyone who wants to learn.

Amy DiPaolo is the Chief Sales Officer and an equity partner with Champion Elevator, headquartered in New York City. Amy started her career at Dover elevator at age 18 working a temp job in the office and she has never looked back. Amy is an ambitious learner and has performed every job possible and learned all aspects of running an elevator company. In 2014, Amy and her husband started Independence Elevator in New Jersey and operated it for seven years. In 2021, they sold to Champion Elevator and Amy joined as a partner. Amy is passionate about the elevator industry.  She believes it is incumbent upon those who have benefitted from it to volunteer and groom the next generation. Amy is proud to have accomplished so much in her career and looks forward to continuing on her journey.

John Koshak joined the elevator industry when he was working as an electrician in San Francisco in 1980. John worked in all areas of the field, many office roles and also in manufacturing and design. John is passionate about safety and honesty in the organization, and he has the tenacity to fight for what he believes to be right. John is a NAESA Certified Elevator Inspector and Qualified Elevator Consultant. He is a member of the Board of Directors for Elevator World Magazine, Past President of the International Association of Elevator Consultants and past Chairman of the Elevator Escalator Safety Foundation. Today John works as a consultant and expert witness among other things.

Nick Gretsuk is Executive Vice President of CEC Elevator Cab Corp and Sterylift.  Nick joined the elevator industry almost 30 years ago, and has worked in a variety of roles, both in the field and manufacturing cabs.  In 2020, Nick invented Sterylift to clean the indoor air of elevators, and to help make the world a cleaner, safer, healthier place.

Joe Mcanulty is the General Manger of Liberty Elevator Experts, an elevator and consulting firm located in the Philadelphia area with operations all over the US. Joe started in the field as a helper and learned all he could with the trade. Eventually Joe was offered an opportunity to work in the consulting world and he made the move to Liberty Elevator Experts. Joe serves on the NAESA Board of Certification and also sits on the board of EESF. Joe loves the elevator industry and is passionate about what he does.

A Message From Our Sponsor:

Looking for top-tier talent to join your team? Call The Allred Group for your elevator recruiting needs! With a deep network and unmatched industry expertise, we quickly connect you with skilled professionals who are ready to elevate your team.  Let us handle the hiring process, so you can focus on growing your business with the best in the industry. Reach out today, and let us help you take your business to new heights!

To contact us go to: http://allredgroup.com

Intro: 

In this episode, we talk with Paul Neal about how she found her path in the elevator industry, the challenges she faced early on, and how ADHD became her superpower. What may have seemed like a weakness became a real strength in helping customers solve problems, building relationships and thriving in a complex environment. 

Today, we talk with Jonathan Fox, a founding member and owner of Resolute Elevator in Burlington, NC. Jonathan Started in the Elevator Industry at the very bottom and quickly learned the trade. In 2017, he and his wife took a leap of faith and started Resolute Elevator. Jonathan knows that as he is true to his word, and invests back in his company and his people, success will be the natural result.  That principle has proven to be true over and over. 

The Elevator Learning Center (ELC) was created to help provide a more advanced level of technical and safety training that is common throughout the elevator industry. The ELC is dedicated to helping elevator companies enhance their quality of service and protect the riding public. It is also dedicated to help elevator professionals advance their careers through education and training. Helping to reduce and eliminate safety accidents and incidents would be a huge win for those whose lives are dedicated to the vertical transportation industry.

In this episode, Dominik Sachsenheimer, President of Maven Group talks about his beginnings as a Financial Analyst for Otis Elevator to leading mergers and acquisitions for all of North America. Along the way, Dominik realized he really wanted to be an entrepreneur, so in 2016, Dominik founded Maven Group to provide advisement services to owners of independent elevator companies, as they are contemplating selling their businesses. 

Troy Tilleraas is the Vice President of Field Operations with Schumacher Elevator. Troy has been in the elevator industry for over 30 years and about 21 of those years were in the field.  Troy loves what he does and is passionate about the industry. Whether it be parts, tooling, or information, Troy's mission is to get the field personnel what they need so they, the company and the customers succeed.

Joe Bach is Vice President of Field Operations with Minnesota Elevator (MEI) and oversees half of the field operations for the company. He has been with MEI for almost 12 years and loves working in the industry. Joe finds great joy in continuously learning, improving and delivering the very best to their customers.

Fernando Mejia has been working, learning and teaching in the elevator industry for many years. He spent 30 years in the field before taking a management position. Today, Fernando lives in Tampa, FL and manages the region of central Florida. Fernando has been an eager student from the beginning and today he loves to share his knowledge with those who are ready to learn.

Today we are talking with Tom Slattery who is a retired mechanic who spent 41 years in the Elevator Trade. Tom Has great stories and friendships from the industry and he still goes back to New York to meet old friends every year. Tom considers  himself fortunate to have been able to work with amazing people in a wonderful industry.

Today we are speaking with Chris Gutkes, President of Island Elevator. Chris is a 4th generation elevator professional; as he says it, he was "born into the industry." Chris is passionate about learning, serving and giving back. Chris recognizes that to be successful  in the elevator industry, you need other people, and that includes investing in their success.

Today we talk with Alan Greenwell, currently a Mod Mechanic with Urban Elevator in TX. Alan has been in the industry many years and spent about 18 years in management with TK Elevator. Alan realized he loves working in the field and decided to move back to what he loves.

Cory Hussey, COO of Stanley Elevator talks with us about the beginnings of Stanley Elevator and how he got involved after college. Cory reminds us that for those who are dedicated, "the sky is the limit" when it comes to opportunities in the Elevator Industry!

Message from Sponsor: 

Looking for top-tier talent to join your team? Call The Allred Group for your elevator recruiting needs! With a deep network and unmatched industry expertise, we quickly connect you with skilled professionals who are ready to elevate your team.  Let us handle the hiring process, so you can focus on growing your business with the best in the industry. Reach out today, and let us help you take your business to new heights!

To contact us go to: http://allredgroup.com

Summary: 

In this episode, we sit down with Sarah Trujillo to talk about how she entered the elevator industry and some of the challenges she faced. As Sarah dug in and asked questions, she became instrumental in transforming the company's workflow through systems and innovation. Little did she know that it would lead to even bigger opportunities down the road.

Today we are talking with Ed Rivera, a Modernization and Construction foreman with TEI in New York City. Ed is passionate about the elevator industry and especially about the people who make it all happen. 

Today on Elevator Careers, we are talking with Jeff Hanson. Jeff has been in the elevator industry since 1988, and today he talks with us about some of the valuable lessons he has learned over his career.

In this episode, we are speaking with Don Gelestino from Champion Elevator. We discuss Don's early beginnings in the industry and the things he has learned throughout his career. We also talk about what Don loves most about the elevator industry--the amazing people..

Message from our Sponsor: 

Looking for top-tier talent to join your team? Call The Allred Group for your elevator recruiting needs! With a deep network and unmatched industry expertise, we quickly connect you with skilled professionals who are ready to elevate your team.  Let us handle the hiring process, so you can focus on growing your business with the best in the industry. Reach out today, and let us help you take your business to new heights!

To contact us go to: http://allredgroup.com

Intro: 

Today's episode brings together the experiences of three women as they reflect on what it means to build a career in a male-dominated trade. Featuring Erin Scott with ATIS, Emerald Kuhns with NAESA International, and Shannon Drezek with the IUEC. They share the challenges they’ve faced, the programs and support systems that made a difference, and the courage it takes to speak up in spaces where women are still underrepresented. They also discuss the progress happening across the industry, from growing female participation to shifting workplace culture, and the barriers that still need to be addressed for the next generation.

Message from our Sponsor:

Looking for top-tier talent to join your team? Call The Allred Group for your elevator recruiting needs! With a deep network and unmatched industry expertise, we quickly connect you with skilled professionals who are ready to elevate your team.  Let us handle the hiring process, so you can focus on growing your business with the best in the industry. Reach out today, and let us help you take your business to new heights!

To contact us go to: http://allredgroup.com

Intro:

In this episode, I interviewed Travis Hall, CEO of Alliance Elevator Solutions. Travis discusses the concept of being first in class in business, emphasizing authenticity and aligning with the right partners. He shares insights on navigating industry challenges, the value of educating customers, and the significance of understanding customer needs for long-term relationships. Travis encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to pursue their passions and highlights the supportive nature of the elevator industry.

Summary:

Travis Hall, CEO of Alliance Elevator Solutions, discusses the importance of authenticity and trust in business partnerships. He emphasizes the value of being "first in class" by focusing on efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and honesty. He highlights the significance of aligning with the right partners, whether suppliers or customers, to achieve long-term success. He shares insights on navigating industry challenges, educating customers, and the benefits of non-proprietary materials. Hall also touches on the role of AI in enhancing business processes and the importance of balancing visionary thinking with practical execution.

A Message from our Sponsor: 

This episode of Elevator Tools and Tech is brought to you by Ziehl-Abegg. For more information, please visit https://www.ziehl-abegg.com/en-us/campaign/zatop-am 

Or to contact Marc Hirsch, email marc.hirsch@ziehl-abegg.us

Intro:

This episode of Elevator Tools and Tech is brought to you by Ziehl-Abegg, a company headquartered in Germany that has been in the elevator industry for about 100 years. Their core products are gearless elevator machines and frequency inverters. Today, I'm talking with Marc Hirsch, business development manager for the Americas region. Three years ago, Marc transitioned to the North American headquarters in North Carolina to locally support the market introduction of a new, very compact series of gearless elevator machines using elastomeric-coated ropes–a new, innovative rope technology for the North American market.

Summary:

In this conversation, Matt Allred interviews Marc Hirsch from Ziehl-Abegg about innovative elevator technology, specifically focusing on elastomeric-coated ropes. Marc explains the advantages of this technology, including energy savings, compact design, and its impact on modernization projects. The discussion also covers the challenges of navigating regulations in the elevator industry and the potential future of this technology in North America. Marc emphasizes the importance of being open to new technologies and the benefits they bring to the industry.

Message from our Sponsor:

Looking for top-tier talent to join your team? Call The Allred Group for your elevator recruiting needs! With a deep network and unmatched industry expertise, we quickly connect you with skilled professionals who are ready to elevate your team.  Let us handle the hiring process, so you can focus on growing your business with the best in the industry. Reach out today, and let us help you take your business to new heights!

To contact us go to: http://allredgroup.com

Intro: 

In this conversation, I talked with Bill McGrath, Loannie Reyes, and Veronica Querales about the staffing challenges in the elevator industry. We explored the need for language skills, the importance of training and development, and the creation of career paths for new talent. We also discussed cultural perspectives on work and the value of trade skills versus traditional education.

Summary:

The conversation on the elevator careers podcast, hosted by Matt Allred, explores staffing challenges in the elevator industry, particularly the need for language skills, training, and career paths for new talent. Bill McGrath, Loannie Reyes, and Veronica Querales discuss the difficulty in hiring skilled workers, the importance of internal training programs, and the potential of learning Spanish to tap into new labor markets. They also highlight the benefits of trade skills over traditional education, the need for technical training, and the value of creating career paths within the industry. The discussion also touches on the cultural perspectives and the potential of new technologies to transform the industry.

A Message from our Sponsor: 

Looking for top-tier talent to join your team? Call The Allred Group for your elevator recruiting needs! With a deep network and unmatched industry expertise, we quickly connect you with skilled professionals who are ready to elevate your team.  Let us handle the hiring process, so you can focus on growing your business with the best in the industry. Reach out today, and let us help you take your business to new heights!

To contact us go to: http://allredgroup.com

Intro:

Today's episode brings together advice and lessons from five entrepreneurs in the elevator industry, each with their own unique path and perspective. Featuring Corinne Nawrocki from Abel Elevator Consulting, Scott Akin from Archi-Tread, Richie Lobert from LML Lift consultants, Chris Gutkes from Island Elevator and Kevin Cunningham from HydraSafe Brake. They share what they've learned looking back on their lives and careers, covering themes like reliability, the mindset of an entrepreneur and the passion that drives innovation in the industry.

Summary

In this episode of the Elevator Careers Podcast, host Matt Allred engages with industry experts to explore key themes in the elevator industry, including the importance of reliability, the entrepreneurial mindset, and effective sales strategies. The conversation emphasizes the value of commitment, communication, and continuous learning for success in this dynamic field.

Special thanks to our guest host, Brad Hoersten!

A Message from our Sponsor: 

Looking for top-tier talent to join your team? Call The Allred Group for your elevator recruiting needs! With a deep network and unmatched industry expertise, we quickly connect you with skilled professionals who are ready to elevate your team.  Let us handle the hiring process, so you can focus on growing your business with the best in the industry. Reach out today, and let us help you take your business to new heights!

To contact us go to: http://allredgroup.com

Intro:

This episode is a special milestone: our 100th episode! This time, I got to switch seats and be the guest interviewed by Brad Hoersten. We talked about my journey into the elevator industry, and what inspired me to start the podcast. We dive into what makes this industry feel like family, the challenges and rewards of creating the show memories from the past 100 episodes and what's ahead as we strive to inspire the next generation of elevator careers.

Summary:

Matt Allred, host of the Elevator Careers Podcast, celebrates the 100th episode with guest-host Brad Hoersten. Matt shares his journey from HR to elevator recruiting, highlighting the industry's unique culture and community. He discusses the podcast's inception, driven by his passion for understanding the elevator industry. Matt reflects on the challenges and rewards of producing 100 episodes, including the initial struggles and the support from industry leaders like Don Gelestino. The podcast aims to inspire the next generation and foster connections within the industry. Future plans include expanding the Tools and Tech series and hosting panel discussions on industry topics.

A Message from our Sponsor: 

This episode is brought to you by Insuramax. Our team specializes in providing tailored insurance program solutions for elevator contractors, having over 20+ years of experience with new-to-operations or some of the Top 10 companies, and understands the unique risks associated with installation, maintenance, and repair. We will work closely with you to design comprehensive coverage plans that protect against liabilities, property damage, and operation disruptions while working to provide the most competitive pricing. 

For more info, visit insuramax.com or call Alan Jones at 502-648-7496.

Intro:

This episode of Elevator Tools and Tech is brought to you by Insuramax, a trusted provider of insurance solutions for elevator contractors. Today, I'm talking with Alan Jones, Vice President of commercial lines for Insuramax, with over 20 years of industry experience. Alan understands the unique risks of the elevator industry and has helped create a comprehensive insurance plan to protect your business. You can learn more at insuramax.com or give Alan a call.

Summary:

Alan Jones, Vice President of Commercial Lines at Insuramax, discussed his 25-year experience in insuring elevator contractors. He highlighted the importance of proactive claims handling, which has led to a 16% loss ratio since 2020, resulting in significant rate decreases for clients. Jones emphasized the need for comprehensive insurance coverage, including labor law and residential exclusions, and the benefits of quarterly claims meetings and contract reviews. He also noted the success of his program in reducing renewal costs and supporting new startups, offering competitive rates and personalized service.

TW: suicide, depression, substance abuse

In this episode, I sit down with Stephen Hook, a former elevator mechanic with 36 years in the trade, to talk about his journey through the industry and his long struggle with addiction and depression. Stephen shares how his father's pride in the union first drew him into the profession and then how he battled internally for years before seeking help. Stephen speaks openly about resilience and honesty in recovery, the power of community and the construction industry's growing willingness to address mental health. Now a recovery advocate, his story is a reminder that asking for help is strength, and that recovery is a lifelong process. 

To get in touch with Stephen, email Stephen.Hook@RecoveryUnplugged.com or call 347-939-8551.

Resources:

Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/@elevatorcareers/

Connect With Us: linktr.ee/AllredGroup

A Message from our Sponsor: 

Looking for top-tier talent to join your team? Call The Allred Group for your elevator recruiting needs! With a deep network and unmatched industry expertise, we quickly connect you with skilled professionals who are ready to elevate your team.  Let us handle the hiring process, so you can focus on growing your business with the best in the industry. Reach out today, and let us help you take your business to new heights!

To contact us go to: http://allredgroup.com

A Message from our Sponsor: 

Looking for top-tier talent to join your team? Call The Allred Group for your elevator recruiting needs! With a deep network and unmatched industry expertise, we quickly connect you with skilled professionals who are ready to elevate your team.  Let us handle the hiring process, so you can focus on growing your business with the best in the industry. Reach out today, and let us help you take your business to new heights!

To contact us go to: http://allredgroup.com

Intro: 

In this conversation, Don Gelestino shares key points of the presentation that he gave last year at the International Elevator and Escalator Symposium. Don is on the road again this fall. He recently spoke at the NAAC Expo 2025, Interlift 2025 and he will be presenting again at the IEES in Buenos Aires in December. Don emphasized the importance of adapting to technological advancements, the challenges posed by supply chain issues and the growing focus on sustainability. Looking ahead, Don predicts a future where predictive maintenance and AI play crucial roles in the industry, while also highlighting the enduring value of independent operators. 

Summary:

In this conversation, Donald Gelestino shares his extensive experience in the elevator industry, discussing the impacts of consolidation, globalization, and technology on safety, efficiency, and competition. He emphasizes the importance of independent companies, the challenges they face, and the role of technological advancements like AI and predictive maintenance in shaping the future of the industry. The discussion also touches on sustainability and the evolving landscape of manufacturing and supply chains.

A Message from our Sponsor:

Looking for top-tier talent to join your team? Call The Allred Group for your elevator recruiting needs! With a deep network and unmatched industry expertise, we quickly connect you with skilled professionals who are ready to elevate your team.  Let us handle the hiring process, so you can focus on growing your business with the best in the industry. Reach out today, and let us help you take your business to new heights!

To contact us go to: http://allredgroup.com

Intro: 

In this episode, I sat down with Jonathan Latham, Don Gelestino, Carrie LeFeber, Norm Nelson, Lynndi Tennyson, and Stuart Smith for live interviews at the NAEC Expo 2025. We talked about their experience with the conference, the messages they want to share with the elevator community, the biggest challenges facing the industry today, and lessons they’ve learned along the way. These were just a few of the many great conversations I had at this year’s event.

Summary: 

Recorded live at the 2025 NAEC Expo, this episode features a series of insightful interviews with elevator industry professionals discussing key challenges, lessons learned, and advice for those in the elevator trade. Topics include navigating current industry changes, such as tariffs, and reflections on what keeps people passionate about their work.

A Message From Our Sponsor:

Looking for top-tier talent to join your team? Call The Allred Group for your elevator recruiting needs! With a deep network and unmatched industry expertise, we quickly connect you with skilled professionals who are ready to elevate your team.  Let us handle the hiring process, so you can focus on growing your business with the best in the industry. Reach out today, and let us help you take your business to new heights!

To contact us go to: http://allredgroup.com

Intro:

In this episode, Jordan shares his journey in the elevator industry, discussing his experiences from his first day on the job to current projects. 

He highlights the challenges faced during installations, the importance of safety, and the evolving technology in the field. 

Jordan also emphasizes the significance of teamwork and camaraderie on job sites, and offers valuable advice for those considering a career in the trade.

Summary:

Jordan Ryan, an elevator mechanic, discusses his journey in the elevator industry, emphasizing the importance of humility and teachability. He recounts his first day on the job, where a mistake led to a messy cleanup, highlighting the need for careful sequencing. Ryan describes a typical installation process, detailing steps from setting jacks to wiring. He shares his most memorable and challenging projects, including a duplex setup in Lehi, Utah, and a fun installation in Holiday, Utah. Ryan also discusses the evolving technology, such as destination dispatch, and the dangers inherent in the trade. He advises aspiring technicians to stay humble and embrace the rewarding nature of the work.

A Message From Our Sponsor:
Looking for top-tier talent to join your team? Call The Allred Group for your elevator recruiting needs! With a deep network and unmatched industry expertise, we quickly connect you with skilled professionals who are ready to elevate your team.  Let us handle the hiring process, so you can focus on growing your business with the best in the industry. Reach out today, and let us help you take your business to new heights!
To contact us go to: http://allredgroup.com

Intro:
Today our guest is Lawrence Wolf.  Lawrence talks about his journey from the Merchant Marine to the elevator industry, discussing the challenges and rewards of transitioning careers. 
He emphasizes the importance of technical skills, community, and the satisfaction derived from helping others. The discussion also touches on the future of the elevator industry and the need for more young people to enter the trade.

Summary:
Lawrence Wolf discussed his career transition from the Merchant Marine to the elevator industry. He shared his initial challenges, including troubleshooting and repairing old elevators, and the satisfaction of helping people. Lawrence highlighted the importance of technical skills, community, and the need for more young people in the trade. He mentioned his new company and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on his commute. Lawrence also emphasized the variety of career paths in the elevator industry, including sales, inspection, and management, and the importance of continuous learning and adaptability.

A Message From Our Sponsor:
Looking for top-tier talent to join your team? Call The Allred Group for your elevator recruiting needs! With a deep network and unmatched industry expertise, we quickly connect you with skilled professionals who are ready to elevate your team.  Let us handle the hiring process, so you can focus on growing your business with the best in the industry. Reach out today, and let us help you take your business to new heights!
To contact us go to: http://allredgroup.com

Intro:
In this conversation, Warren Tweer shares his unique journey into the elevator trade, detailing his early life, challenges faced during his apprenticeship, and the adventures he experienced while working in various international locations, including conflict zones. 
Warren reflects on the evolution of elevator technology, the importance of mentorship, and the personal growth he achieved through his career. 

Summary:
In this episode of the Elevator Careers Podcast, host Matt Allred sits down with Warren Tweer to explore his fascinating journey in the elevator industry. From unexpected beginnings to working in international conflict zones, Warren shares his experiences and insights on the evolution of elevator technology, the importance of mentorship, and the personal growth he achieved along the way. Tune in to discover how a career in elevators can take you to places you never imagined.

A Message from our Sponsor:

This episode is brought to you by Cloud Monitoring. Visit CloudMonitoring.us to learn more.

Intro:

This episode of Elevator Tools & Tech is sponsored by Cloud Monitoring, a cloud based remote monitoring systems that offers hosted, all in one monitoring of your equipment - 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and accessible from anywhere. Now, let’s dive in.

Summary:

In this episode of the Elevator Tools and Tech podcast, host Matt Allred engages with industry experts Angelo Mottola, Bali Harmath, and Anthony Marchese to discuss the transformative impact of AI and IoT on elevators. They explore how intelligent elevators can enhance urban mobility, improve user experiences, and provide predictive maintenance to reduce downtime. The conversation also delves into energy efficiency, cybersecurity concerns, and the importance of integrating smart technology into building management systems. The experts share insights on the industry's technological advancements and the necessity for building owners to adapt to these innovations for better operational efficiency and tenant satisfaction.

A Message From Our Sponsor:
Looking for top-tier talent to join your team? Call The Allred Group for your elevator recruiting needs! With a deep network and unmatched industry expertise, we quickly connect you with skilled professionals who are ready to elevate your team.  Let us handle the hiring process, so you can focus on growing your business with the best in the industry. Reach out today, and let us help you take your business to new heights!
To contact us go to: http://allredgroup.com

Intro:
What if the only thing standing between you and a great career was showing up with the right attitude?
In this episode, I talk with Ryan Jones, an elevator pro whose journey started with a little encouragement from his then-girlfriend’s dad and grew into a full-blown career in the trade. Ryan’s story is a reminder that no one starts out knowing everything—but those who bring a desire to learn can go far.
From climbing into escalator pits to reprogramming controllers, Ryan shares the hard-earned lessons, funny moments, and the mindset that keeps him passionate about the elevator industry.

Summary:
In this episode of the Elevator Careers podcast, host Matt Allred interviews Ryan Jones, an experienced elevator professional. They discuss Ryan's journey into the elevator industry, the challenges and rewards of modernization, the importance of training and mentoring new talent, and the unique aspects of working in this niche field. Ryan shares insights on recruitment challenges, the differences between large and small companies, and what keeps him passionate about the industry. He emphasizes the importance of having the desire to learn and the various career paths available within the elevator trade.

A Message From Our Sponsor: 

This episode is brought to you by Access Elevator & Escalator supply, and Quality Elevator Products. Visit AESupply.com and QualityElev.com to learn more.

Intro:

This episode is sponsored by Access Elevator & Escalator Supply, an elevator industry supplier of a wide range of components for elevator and escalator maintenance, repair, and modernization. And by her sister company, Quality Elevator Products, which specializes in the manufacturing and distribution of elevator and escalator parts and accessories. Together, they are more than just parts suppliers—They are solutions providers. Now, let’s dive in.

Summary:

Rick Milefchik, leader of Access Elevator Supply and Quality Elevator Products, discusses the importance of creating positive customer experiences. He emphasizes the need for responsive, transparent, and personalized service. Milefchik highlights the impact of Extreme Ownership culture, where employees take full responsibility for their actions. He also addresses the challenges of short product life cycles and the necessity of adapting to changing customer needs. Milefchik's companies focus on maintaining inventory to ensure timely delivery and value customer feedback to improve processes and services. The conversation underscores the importance of continuous improvement and customer-centric strategies in the elevator industry.

A Message From Our Sponsor:
Looking for top-tier talent to join your team? Call The Allred Group for your elevator recruiting needs! With a deep network and unmatched industry expertise, we quickly connect you with skilled professionals who are ready to elevate your team.  Let us handle the hiring process, so you can focus on growing your business with the best in the industry. Reach out today, and let us help you take your business to new heights!
To contact us go to: http://allredgroup.com

Intro:
From fixing cars on Staten Island to installing elevators in the heart of Brooklyn—and eventually helping shape elevator innovation overseas—Ken Hickey’s 37-year journey in the industry is anything but ordinary. 
Today, he opens up about the tough early days, the mentors who shaped him, the shift from union to non-union work, and the leadership lessons that have helped him build teams and move elevators. If you’ve ever wondered what it means to really grow in this business, Ken’s story gives a great example.

Summary:
Ken Hickey, with 37 years in the elevator industry, discusses his journey from automotive to elevators, influenced by a mentor who taught him hands-on skills. He transitioned from union to non-union work for broader opportunities, including management, engineering, and sales. Hickey highlights a significant project with LG Otis, designing and installing MRL elevators in New York City, which required six weeks in South Korea and approval from the Department of Buildings. He emphasizes the importance of safety, teamwork, and continuous learning, advocating for passion and dedication in the industry.

A Message From Our Sponsor: 
This episode is brought to you by Elevator Zip. Visit https://elevatorzip.com/ to learn more.

Intro: 
This episode of Elevator Tools & Tech is brought to you by Elevator Zip, creators of Elevator Zip and the all new BOLT, an AI powered estimation and proposal tool for elevator mechanics and sales reps. Learn more at elevatorzip.com. Now, let’s dive in.

Summary: 
Brad Hoersten discusses Elevator Zip and its new AI-powered tool, Bolt, designed to streamline the sales process in the elevator industry. Elevator Zip helps mechanics capture and propose repair sales leads more efficiently, reducing the time it takes from weeks to minutes. Bolt allows mechanics to create estimates, convert them to proposals, and secure customer signatures on-site, eliminating the need for office intervention. This empowers mechanics to act quickly, potentially increasing sales and customer satisfaction. The tool also includes AI-driven recommendations to ensure accurate proposals. The rollout process is expected to take about two weeks.

In this conversation, I spoke with Erin Fabian with MODPROS Elevator, about her journey from property management to working in the elevator industry. We discussed the complexities of elevator systems, the importance of elevator-related education for property managers, and the challenges involved in maintaining trust with elevator contractors. Erin emphasized the need for a service mindset and the importance of women in supporting each other in a male-dominated field.

Resources:

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A Message from our Sponsor: 

Looking for top-tier talent to join your team? Call The Allred Group for your elevator recruiting needs! With a deep network and unmatched industry expertise, we quickly connect you with skilled professionals who are ready to elevate your team.  Let us handle the hiring process, so you can focus on growing your business with the best in the industry. Reach out today, and let us help you take your business to new heights!

To contact us go to: http://allredgroup.com

Intro:

Today’s guest, Anthony Marchese, grew up on the shop floor of his family’s elevator controls business — literally riding his tricycle between controller panels. From those early days to designing New York City’s first inclined elevator, Anthony’s journey is a blend of legacy, innovation, and vision for the future.

Anthony is currently Vice President Technical Services at VDA and a member of the VDA new product committee. In this interview, we talk predictive maintenance, elevating performance with smart tech, and what it takes to thrive in a rapidly changing industry. Join us as we dig into this exciting topic. 

Summary:

Anthony Marchese, Vice President of Technical Services at VDA, discussed his journey in the elevator industry, influenced by his family's legacy. He highlighted his work on New York City's first inclined elevator and emphasized the importance of predictive maintenance using advanced sensors for vibrational analysis, temperature, and water infiltration. Marchese stressed the need for proactive maintenance to avoid catastrophic events and the importance of embracing technology to optimize performance. He encouraged young professionals to be enthusiastic and take risks, citing Jim Valvano's inspirational speech as a guiding principle.

A Message From Our Sponsor:
Looking for top-tier talent to join your team? Call The Allred Group for your elevator recruiting needs! With a deep network and unmatched industry expertise, we quickly connect you with skilled professionals who are ready to elevate your team.  Let us handle the hiring process, so you can focus on growing your business with the best in the industry. Reach out today, and let us help you take your business to new heights!
To contact us go to: http://allredgroup.com

Intro:
In today's episode, we sit down with Andrew Glauser, a veteran elevator mechanic, adjuster, NEIEP instructor, QEI, and Foreman who's been keeping people moving safely for over two decades. From working on the new Buffalo Bills stadium to training the next generation of technicians, Andrew brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to our conversation.

Summary:
Andrew Glauser discusses his career in the elevator industry, starting with a family friend's influence and his own recruitment in 2004. He highlights his role in the Buffalo Bills stadium project and the pride he feels in his work. Andrew emphasizes the importance of continuous learning, mentorship, and safety. He notes the industry's growth, particularly in residential elevators, and the challenges of finding inspectors. Andrew also mentions the benefits of vocational training and the opportunities available, including the potential for veterans to leverage their GI Bill for education. He advises newcomers to ask questions, be eager, and prioritize safety.

A Message From Our Sponsor:
Looking for top-tier talent to join your team? Call The Allred Group for your elevator recruiting needs! With a deep network and unmatched industry expertise, we quickly connect you with skilled professionals who are ready to elevate your team.  Let us handle the hiring process, so you can focus on growing your business with the best in the industry. Reach out today, and let us help you take your business to new heights!
To contact us go to: http://allredgroup.com

Intro:
In a world of rapidly changing technology, some professions remain timeless - and today, we're diving into the fascinating world of elevator mechanics with a true industry veteran. Meet Jim Lembesis, a professional who's spent 46 years mastering vertical transportation, from working alongside sports legends at the United Center to installing elevators in Chicago's iconic Trump Tower. With a career spanning construction, maintenance, and modernization, Jim's journey is a testament to passion, continuous learning, and the incredible opportunities hidden in skilled trades. Get ready for an inspiring conversation about innovation, mentorship, and why some professionals never want to retire.

Summary:
Jim Lembesis, an elevator mechanic with 46 years of experience, discusses his career in the vertical transportation industry. He highlights the trade's global opportunities, mentions working on iconic projects like the United Center and Trump Tower, and emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and adapting to new technologies. Jim shares his progression from apprentice to foreman and modernization adjuster, and the rewarding experience of mentoring younger technicians. He underscores the excitement and challenges of the trade, including the necessity of mastering both mechanical and electrical aspects. Jim's passion for the industry and his willingness to stay active despite his age serve as an inspiration for aspiring elevator mechanics.