Host Andrew Brown sits down with Barry Zekelman, CEO of Zekelman Industries. Barry shares his incredible journey from inheriting his father's struggling company at 19 to transforming it into one of North America's largest steel pipe and tube manufacturers. Together, they discuss entrepreneurship in skilled trades, the importance of trades advocacy, building a thriving trades industry culture, and empowering tradespeople to succeed. This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about skilled trades careers, leadership, and craftsmanship.
IN THIS EPISODE:
(00:00) - Introduction: Andrew Brown welcomes Barry Zekelman and sets the stage for discussing skilled trades careers.
(04:30) - Barry Zekelman reflects on inheriting his father's business and the challenges of entrepreneurship in skilled trades.
(10:15) - Building a strong trades industry culture and empowering employees for success.
(20:00) - The role of problem-solving and creativity in skilled trades careers like carpentry, HVAC, and construction.
(30:45) - Advocacy for trades careers: Why skilled trades are vital to our economy and communities.
(40:00) - Closing thoughts: Barry's advice for young tradespeople and aspiring leaders.
Key Takeaways:
Empowering People is Key: Building a strong culture and trusting your team can elevate success in the trades industry.
Trades Careers are Honorable: Careers in skilled trades like millwrights, electricians, plumbers, and contractors offer fulfillment and stability.
Leadership is Learned and Earned: Barry emphasizes the importance of empathy, problem-solving, and teamwork in becoming a successful leader.
Advocacy Matters: Trades advocacy and leadership are crucial for addressing the trades shortage and shaping the future of skilled trades careers.
About the Guest:
Barry Zekelman is the CEO and Executive Chairman of Zekelman Industries, a leading steel pipe and tube manufacturer in North America. Starting his leadership journey at the age of 19 after the sudden passing of his father, Barry turned a struggling company into a billion-dollar powerhouse. His passion for skilled trades careers, entrepreneurship in skilled trades, and advocacy for tradespeople has made him a respected leader in the industry. He is committed to creating opportunities for tradespeople and fostering a thriving trades industry culture.
Keywords:
Skilled Trades Careers, Trades Industry Culture, Barry Zekelman Interview, Entrepreneurship in Skilled Trades, Trades Advocacy and Leadership, Skilled Trades, Trades Industry, Andrew Brown, Toolfetch, Barry Zekelman, Carpentry, HVAC, Electricians, Plumbers, Millwrights, Construction, Craftsmanship, Problem-solving, Creativity, Tradespeople, Advocacy, Trades Careers, Industry Experts, Contractors, Education, Skilled Trades Advisory Council.
RESOURCE LINKS
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barry-z-5a9a25268/
Website: https://www.zekelman.com/
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