Sign up to save your podcasts
Or
Share The Elevator Careers Podcast
Share to email
Share to Facebook
Share to X
Share to email
Share to Facebook
Share to X
Or
The Elevator Careers Podcast
The Elevator Careers Podcast episodes
- Elevator Company Leadership: "Make Time to Get Into the Field" | Corinne Nawrocki
In this episode, I interviewed Corinne Nawrocki, CEO and Founder of Abel Elevator Consulting, Inc. Corinne entered the vertical transportation arena in 2015, leading new sales strategies for TKE. She later moved into project management and on-site development with Schindler Elevator, where she learned the key factors contributing to the operational side of the elevator trade. With her boots-on-the-ground approach, she always made time to be in the field and learn from the mechanics; this allowed her to develop and hone her skills to continue her journey which brought her to Abel in May of 2023. Corinne loves the challenges of the elevator industry and is passionate about growing, innovating, and facilitating her clients and industry partners to get to the next level.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction
01:15 Early Career in the Elevator Industry
07:00 Building Trust with Mechanics
08:30 High-Stakes Job Story: Federal Reserve Project
10:50 Leadership & Team Growth
15:30 Why Corinne Started Abel Elevator Consulting
18:30 Elevators, Real Estate & Tenant Retention
23:00 What Makes a Great Consultant
24:00 Balancing Clients, Contractors & Expectations
26:00 Vision for the Future of the Industry
27:20 Being a Woman in a Male-Dominated Industry
29:00 Valuable Career Lessons and Advice
33:40 What Able Elevator Consulting Does
34:30 Closing Thoughts
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.comResources:
Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/@elevatorcareers/
Submit a Topic Idea for the Podcast: https://elevatorcareers.net/
Connect With Us: https://linktr.ee/AllredGroup
Join our Newsletter - Episodes, Elevator Jobs, Insights, and more: https://eepurl.com/jnVaOMA 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.com35 min - Career Journey and The Power of Networking in the Elevator Industry | Ed Rivera
In this episode, I interviewed Ed Rivera, a Regional Modernization Trainer with TK elevator. Ed is also known as "Your Elevator Pal" and has been in the industry many years. He has a passion for continuously improving the elevator industry and those in it. In the near future, Ed wants to start a live, in-person elevator industry networking group to continue to build each other. Message Ed on LinkedIn if you are interested in participating.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction
01:37 Meet Ed Rivera – “Your Elevator Pal”
02:18 Returning to the Podcast After Two Years
02:42 Why Ed Left TEI Group After 15+ Years
05:02 The Opportunity That Changed His Career
13:45 Leaving a Company That Felt Like Family
16:26 Biggest Fears About Changing Careers
17:45 Why Career Decisions Can Feel Lonely
22:33 What a Regional Modernization Trainer Actually Does
27:04 What Brings Ed the Most Joy in His Work
30:35 Why the Industry Needs More Real Connection
31:56 Ed’s Idea for an In-Person Elevator Industry Group
33:17 Helping Mechanics, Managers, and Apprentices Grow
37:25 Mentorship and Learning from Experienced Professionals
39:14 Closing Thoughts
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
#podcast #elevators #tradesResources:
Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/@elevatorcareers/
Submit a Topic Idea for the Podcast: https://elevatorcareers.net/
Connect With Us: https://linktr.ee/AllredGroup
Join our Newsletter - Episodes, Elevator Jobs, Insights, and more: https://eepurl.com/jnVaOMA 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.com40 min - Leadership Lessons from an Elevator Company President | Chris Gutkes
In this episode, I interviewed Chris Gutkes, President of Island Elevator. Chris shared his path of developing as a business owner in the elevator industry. Having been on this journey for a while, Chris has learned many lessons along the way; some harder than others. Though it's not always easy to develop self awareness and empathy, Chris shared that these are two of the critical skills for growing as a leader.
Chapters:
0:00:00 Introduction
0:01:26 How Chris's perspective has changed since his previous interview
0:02:47 What it takes to run a business in the elevator industry
0:05:06 The importance of self-awareness, empathy, and personal growth
0:10:21 Empathy-building exercises that improve communication and efficiency
0:13:02 Addressing urgent requests without disruption
0:16:26 Leadership skills, problem-solving techniques, and overcoming fears
0:23:37 Advice for entrepreneurs
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.comResources:
Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/@elevatorcareers/
Submit a Topic Idea for the Podcast: https://elevatorcareers.net/
Connect With Us: https://linktr.ee/AllredGroup
Join our Newsletter - Episodes, Elevator Jobs, Insights, and more: https://eepurl.com/jnVaOMA 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.com33 min - The Future of Elevator Service & Consulting | Michael Caputa, Part 2
Interview Part 2: Elevator Consulting
In this episode, I interviewed Michael Caputa, Regional Vice President with Blackstone Elevator Consulting in Florida. Michael started his career with Thyssenkrupp elevator as an Account Manager in Atlanta and has grown in several different roles and companies. Michael is an endurance athlete and has proven over and over the power of the mind over matter. Michael believes the best bet you can make is on yourself. He likes to say; "Hard work beats talent. Stay humble, hustle, and never give up.”
Chapters:
0:00:00 Introduction
0:02:03 Transitioning to consulting
0:04:53 Biggest value as consultant
0:07:02 Advocating for customers
0:11:24 Contractor perspective on consultants
0:16:59 Improving communication
0:20:23 Industry trends
0:25:51 Words of wisdom
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.comResources:
Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/@elevatorcareers/
Submit a Topic Idea for the Podcast: https://elevatorcareers.net/
Connect With Us: https://linktr.ee/AllredGroup
Join our Newsletter - Episodes, Elevator Jobs, Insights, and more: https://eepurl.com/jnVaOMA 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.com27 min - Customer Service & Leadership in the Elevator Industry | Michael Caputa, Part 1
Interview Part 1: Elevator Career Journey
In this episode, I interviewed Michael Caputa, Regional Vice President with Blackstone Elevator Consulting in Florida. Michael started his career with Thyssenkrupp elevator as an Account Manager in Atlanta and has grown in several different roles and companies. Michael is an endurance athlete and has proven over and over the power of the mind over matter. Michael believes the best bet you can make is on yourself. He likes to say; "Hard work beats talent. Stay humble, hustle, and never give up.”
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction
01:40 Meet Michael Caputa – Regional VP at Blackstone Elevator Consulting
02:03 Overview of the Interview (Part 1)
02:11 How Michael Got Started in the Elevator Industry
04:47 When the Elevator Industry Started to “Click”
05:56 Mentors Who Helped Shape His Career
08:45 What Michael Loves Most About the Elevator Industry
09:36 Biggest Changes in the Elevator Industry Over Time
11:09 Supply Chain Issues and Industry Evolution
15:42 The Most Important Skill for Success in the Elevator Industry
16:58 Why Delivering Bad News Quickly Builds Trust
20:06 Advice for Someone Just Starting in the Elevator Industry
20:24 Why Attitude and Effort Matter More Than Experience
21:26 Michael’s First Sales Experience in the Elevator Industry
22:39 Final Advice
22:47 Conclusion
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.comResources:
Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/@elevatorcareers/
Submit a Topic Idea for the Podcast: https://elevatorcareers.net/
Connect With Us: https://linktr.ee/AllredGroup
Join our Newsletter - Episodes, Elevator Jobs, Insights, and more: https://eepurl.com/jnVaOMA 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.com24 min - Inside Elevator Consulting & Sales | Mike Balsamo
In this episode, I interviewed Mike Balsamo, Senior Vice President with VDA in New York City. Mike started his career with PS Marcato working summers as a helper and he credits his early time in the trade to being foundational to the work he does does today. Mike says responsiveness to customers is critical because that is how you build trust. Mike is also a champion of continuing education, knowing education is the key to opportunity.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction
01:18 Meet Mike Balsamo – Senior VP at VDA
01:43 How Mike Got Started in the Elevator Industry
05:39 Learning the Elevator Business
06:12 Passing Knowledge to the Next Generation
11:07 Challenges of Starting a Career in Elevator Sales
12:03 Why Responsiveness Builds Client Trust
13:55 How Elevator Maintenance Contracts Work
16:04 How Mike Learned the Elevator Trade Early On
17:00 Advice for Helpers and Apprentices
19:08 Mentors Who Shaped Mike’s Career
24:06 His Role at VDA Today
25:00 Why Client Relationships Matter More Than Sales
26:01 The Most Critical Skill in Elevator Consulting
30:35 Advice for Young People Entering the Industry
34:17 Final Thoughts
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.comResources:
Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/@elevatorcareers/
Submit a Topic Idea for the Podcast: https://elevatorcareers.net/
Connect With Us: https://linktr.ee/AllredGroup
Join our Newsletter - Episodes, Elevator Jobs, Insights, and more: https://eepurl.com/jnVaOMA 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.com36 min - Lessons from Founding an Elevator Business | Ed Stachowiak, Part 2
Interview part 2: Discussing the challenges and lessons of starting a new business.
In this episode, I interviewed Ed Stachowiak, the Chief Operating Officer at Axxiom Elevator. Ed started his career as a sales rep with Otis Elevator in Syracuse, New York where he learned and grew rapidly. In 2023, Ed became one of the founders of Axxiom Elevator with a vision to become the "Elevator Service Provider of Choice." Ed believes personal and business growth is not easy. It takes a lot of courage to have honest and open conversations, but is essential to see your blind spots and grow effectively.
Chapters:
0:00:00 Introduction
0:01:02 Starting a new elevator service provider with Ed Stachowiak of Axxiom Elevator
0:02:18 The motivation behind starting Axxiom Elevator
0:03:36 Understanding the underserved segment seeking better customer service
0:05:04 How customer expectations have changed with the rise of on-demand culture
0:07:22 Ed's motivations for starting Axxiom Elevator and the opportunity he saw
0:08:56 Building a strategic plan and culture around core commitments
0:10:54 Partnering with the right people who share the company's vision
0:12:29 Benefits partnerships provide for small business owners
0:14:14 Supporting partners' growth through expertise and resources
0:15:04 Flexibility in partnership structures based on partners' needs
0:18:03 Building partnerships through open communication and alignment
0:20:55 Addressing fears around partnerships through transparency
0:22:54 Partnership as a mutually beneficial relationship
0:25:35 Creative strategies for scaling businesses in unique markets
0:28:06 Parting words of wisdom on growth, communication, and blind spots
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.comResources:
Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/@elevatorcareers/
Submit a Topic Idea for the Podcast: https://elevatorcareers.net/
Connect With Us: https://linktr.ee/AllredGroup
Join our Newsletter - Episodes, Elevator Jobs, Insights, and more: https://eepurl.com/jnVaOMA 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.com29 min - Personal Growth as an Elevator Industry Professional | Ed Stachowiak, Part 1
Interview Part 1: Ed's career journey with Otis
In this episode, I interviewed Ed Stachowiak, the Chief Operating Officer at Axxiom Elevator. Ed started his career as a sales rep with Otis Elevator in Syracuse, New York where he learned and grew rapidly. In 2023, Ed became one of the founders of Axxiom Elevator with a vision to become the "Elevator Service Provider of Choice." Ed believes personal and business growth is not easy. It takes a lot of courage to have honest and open conversations, but is essential to see your blind spots and grow effectively.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction
01:11 Meet Ed Staak – COO of Axiom Elevator
01:41 Overview of the Interview (Part 1)
01:55 How Ed Entered the Elevator Industry
05:25 The Unique Culture of the Elevator Industry
06:07 Mentors Who Shaped Ed’s Career
08:01 Challenges of Learning Elevator Technology
08:49 Why Field Experience Matters
09:55 Understanding Operations vs Sales in the Elevator Business
10:29 Managing Bottlenecks and Business Growth
11:09 Why Team Trust Is Critical in Operations
12:19 The Most Important Leadership Lessons
15:37 Mentorship and Training the Next Generation
16:36 How Companies Evolve as They Grow
17:43 Advice for People Entering the Elevator Industry
22:39 Closing Thoughts
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.comResources:
Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/@elevatorcareers/
Submit a Topic Idea for the Podcast: https://elevatorcareers.net/
Connect With Us: https://linktr.ee/AllredGroup
Join our Newsletter - Episodes, Elevator Jobs, Insights, and more: https://eepurl.com/jnVaOMA 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.com24 min - Growing and Competing as an Independent Elevator Business | Kendra Glenn
In this episode, I interviewed Kendra Glenn, Managing Partner of BTS Elevator Packages. Kendra grew up in the industry, but wasn't sure she wanted to be part of the family business. After Graduating from college and working in hospitality for a few years, Kendra realized she wasn't being challenged or feeling fulfilled. Kendra decided to join the family business, G-Tech Elevator and after a few years she helped create BTS. Kendra has found the challenge she was looking for and is thriving in the elevator industry.
Chapters:
0:00:00 Introduction
0:01:43 Welcome and introduction from Kendra
0:02:04 Getting started in the elevator industry
0:09:15 Starting BTS Elevator Packages
0:11:13 Challenges of selling as an independent
0:16:09 Overcoming knowledge gaps
0:20:25 Growth and reception of BTS
0:25:07 Overcoming visualization challenges
0:28:33 Elevator industry culture
0:31:00 Closing and parting thoughts
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.comResources:
Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/@elevatorcareers/
Submit a Topic Idea for the Podcast: https://elevatorcareers.net/
Connect With Us: https://linktr.ee/AllredGroup
Join our Newsletter - Episodes, Elevator Jobs, Insights, and more: https://eepurl.com/jnVaOMA 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.com32 min - Elevator Industry Leadership: Trust Your People | Mike Frangias
In this episode, I interviewed Michael Frangias, CEO of New York/New Jersey Elevator Company. Mike grew up in the elevator industry, with his father taking him on the job at an early age. He didn’t like school, but he learned quickly while in the trade and came to love elevators. Mike has worked for several different companies, both large and small, and has gained many valuable insights over the years. Mike believes in employees, even those in Gen Z; he trusts that if he tells them what he expects, they will come through.
Chapters:
0:00:00 - Introduction
0:02:07 - Mike's childhood introduction to the elevator industry
0:04:10 - Beginnings of a career
0:08:13 - Mentorship along the way
0:11:09 - Company culture: Trust and respect
0:15:20 - Consulting around the country
0:16:17 - Starting 360 Elevator and purchasing Statewide Elevator
0:17:20 - Bankruptcy
0:18:13 - Mentorship in the next phase of Mike's career
0:22:50 - Client movement and growth
0:27:24 - Company transition challenges
0:31:29 - Biggest lessons learned
0:36:45 - Mike's advice for business owners and industry newcomers
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.comResources:
Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/@elevatorcareers/
Submit a Topic Idea for the Podcast: https://elevatorcareers.net/
Connect With Us: https://linktr.ee/AllredGroup
Join our Newsletter - Episodes, Elevator Jobs, Insights, and more: https://eepurl.com/jnVaOMA 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.com41 min
About The Elevator Careers Podcast
From the publisher's feed
The Elevator Careers Podcast explores the careers, challenges, and innovations shaping the elevator industry. Through conversations with professionals across the trade, we share career journeys,…
lessons, business advice, and more. We aim to educate, share experiences, and connect the community. Hosted by Matt Allred of The Allred Group, a leading elevator industry recruiting firm.