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.

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.

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 Shannon Drezek, an IUEC elevator constructor, NEIEP instructor, and Qualified Elevator Inspector in Oxford, WI. 
Shannon has been in the trade for 19 years and is passionate about the work she does; she only wishes she had found it sooner.
Shannon is excited that more women are joining the industry, and although they are still the minority, there is always room for talented and ambitious people.
If you have any interest, don't be afraid to give the Elevator Industry a try; you might just learn to love it like Shannon does

Summary:
Shannon Drezek, an elevator constructor and NEAP instructor from Oxford, Wisconsin, discussed her 19-year career in the vertical transportation industry. She highlighted the rarity of women in the trade, noting only about 300 out of 33,000 elevator constructors in the U.S. and Canada are female. Shannon emphasized the importance of childcare as a barrier for women entering the trade and the need for early exposure to trades education. She shared her journey into the trade, the challenges, and the rewards, including the variety of work and the opportunity to teach and mentor apprentices. Shannon encouraged more women and young people to consider trades careers.

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!

Intro:
Welcome to today's episode, where we explore the critical intersection of leadership, communication, and organizational success. 
This is PART 2 of my interview with Tom Esch, a renowned expert in workplace dynamics and conflict resolution. 
Tom brings over two decades of experience in helping leaders understand the nuanced 'people stuff' that can make or break a business. 
We'll dive into how leadership skills, emotional intelligence, and conscious communication can transform workplace culture, prevent costly mistakes, and drive organizational performance. 
Whether you're a business owner, manager, or aspiring leader, this conversation offers invaluable insights into creating more effective, human-centered workplaces. 

To get in touch with Tom:
https://eschconsulting.com/
https://www.youtube.com/@UCADFdw9POGoK5eEGFCDKufw 

To Get a Copy of Tom's Book:
https://eschconsulting.com/book/

Summary:
In this episode of the Elevator Careers Podcast, host Matthew Allred interviews Tom Esch on leadership, communication, and organizational success. Esch emphasizes the importance of personal accountability, emotional intelligence, and conscious communication in building a strong safety culture. He shares a story about a construction site where a lack of communication led to a fatal accident, highlighting the need for leaders to foster open dialogue. Esch also discusses the impact of rank and power dynamics on workplace safety and productivity, using examples from various industries. He stresses the significance of trust, empathy, and forgiveness in fostering a safe and effective work environment.

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!

Intro:
Welcome to today's episode, where we explore the critical intersection of leadership, communication, and organizational success. 
This is PART 1 of my interview with Tom Esch, a renowned expert in workplace dynamics and conflict resolution. 
Tom brings over two decades of experience in helping leaders understand the nuanced 'people stuff' that can make or break a business. 
We'll dive into how leadership skills, emotional intelligence, and conscious communication can transform workplace culture, prevent costly mistakes, and drive organizational performance. 
Whether you're a business owner, manager, or aspiring leader, this conversation offers invaluable insights into creating more effective, human-centered workplaces. 

Summary:
Tom Esch discusses the critical intersection of leadership, communication, and organizational success. He emphasizes the importance of leaders being skilled in people management to avoid hurting businesses. Esch shares an example of coaching a CFO who nearly lost a $20 million job due to poor behavior, leading to improved office dynamics. He highlights the impact of rank and power on workplace dynamics, citing a 41% increase in comfort levels and a 50% rise in crucial conversations among trained Foremen. Esch also addresses the challenges of dealing with toxic bosses and the importance of genuine apologies and self-awareness in leadership.