Summary

Candace Mohrs, part owner of AAA Plumbers in the greater Houston area, shares how a family-founded, multifamily-focused plumbing company has stayed competitive through decades of industry change. She explains how trust, community involvement, and people-first leadership differentiate AAA in a crowded market. Candace also discusses workforce challenges in the trades, the role of communication and culture in retention, and how emerging technology—including AI—can support prevention, safety, and operational efficiency without replacing hands-on expertise.

Takeaways

• Trust and long-term relationships are AAA's strongest differentiators in a competitive industry.
• Deep involvement in industry associations and legislation strengthens advocacy for both customers and the trade.
• Company culture is built through genuine care, respect, and ongoing education for employees.
• Communication must be continuous, adaptable, and tailored to different teams and languages.
• Growth requires balancing expansion with staying rooted in core values and relationships.
• A major challenge in the trades is attracting and training the next generation of skilled workers.
• Quality people matter more than rapid growth—quality over quantity protects reputation and trust.
• Technology and AI should support prevention, safety, and efficiency, not replace skilled labor.
• The future of the trades will blend hands-on expertise with evolving technology and education.
• True success is defined by service, people, and legacy, not profits alone.