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 [email protected] or call 347-939-8551.

Resources:

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

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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

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:

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: 

This episode of Elevator Tools and Tech is brought to you by LiftComm, a product of TEC Solutions, and providers of high-end elevator emergency communication systems. For more information, please visit https://www.liftcomm.com/ or email Joe at [email protected].

Intro:

In this episode, I met with Joe Barone, Senior Client Manager at LiftComm. We discussed their EAV Elevator Phone, an audio and text communication solution in compliance with ASME 17.1 codes that allows speaking or hearing-impaired people to communicate in case of emergency. We also addressed the progression of elevator emergency communications, the rigorous testing processes for these devices, and available integrations.

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, I sat down with Anya Codack to discuss her unique journey from aspiring artist through software development and consulting to taking over her family's elevator supplier business, Delco Elevator Products. Anya shares the challenges and lessons she learned in entrepreneurship, the importance of customer experience and the value of building a strong company culture. Anya also discusses the supportive community she found within the elevator industry that has been especially supportive to her and many other women.

A Message from our Sponsor:
If you're interested in working with PTL Equipment or learning more about their products, contact their office at 1-800-736-2120, or visit http://ptlequipment.com/ to learn more.

Intro:
In this episode, I visited an elevator industry supplier called PTL Equipment in Toccoa, Georgia. I met with Jonathan Wright, the owner of the company, who started in drafting, worked his way up, and later bought the company. I also met with the national sales manager, Jonathan Latham, a veteran of the elevator industry for over 30 years. PTL Equipment is a family-owned business that views its mission as one of faith, fundamentals, and food.

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 interview, I sit down with Gerry Adams as he shares his multifaceted career journey from mechanical engineering and chemical sales into the elevator industry. Gerry delves into his experiences managing business operations and sales in the elevator sector, highlighting the challenges of transitioning mid-career, the importance of hands-on learning, and the need for high-quality training. Gerry emphasizes the value of technical knowledge to create success, and he encourages newcomers to ask questions and immerse themselves in their work. Check out Gerry's woodworking YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@woodworkingwithgerry

A Message from our Sponsor:
This episode of Elevator Tools and Tech is brought to you by Express Elevators and Lifts, a "one-stop shop" providing various vertical transport solutions like passenger, freight, and custom lifts. For more information, please visit https://www.expresselevatorslifts.com/. 

Intro:
In this episode, I interviewed the President and CEO of Express Elevators & Lifts, Puneet Mehta, to discuss the importance of customizing freight elevators, and the innovative solutions like zero-pit and modular hoistways that they offer. Learn how Express Elevators' expertise in pre-sales consultancy and project management ensures that each elevator is tailored to fit specific operational requirements, making them the go-to partner for businesses across North America.

A Message from our Sponsor: 

If you’re interested in becoming an NAEC member and learning about the many benefits they offer, please contact Paula Sanchez at (770)-760-9660, or by email at [email protected].

Intro:

In this conversation, I sat down with Amy DiPaolo, the president of the National Association of Elevator Contractors, to discuss her personal experiences with the NAEC, the benefits of membership, and their initiatives aimed at education, safety, and empowerment. Amy encourages elevator professionals to get involved with the association to experience greater personal and professional development.

A Message from our Sponsor: 

If you're interested in the opportunity to franchise, contact Jason Booher, the franchise manager, at [email protected] 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. 

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.