The skilled trades industry is key in our daily lives, from plumbing to electrical work. However, there is a growing need for more skilled workers as fewer people choose this path.
Many still don’t realize these careers are rewarding and essential, especially with the right training and guidance. As a result, more people now see the value of building a skilled trade business.
Josh Zolin CEO of Windy City Equipment (WCE, Inc) is a great example of someone who successfully shifted into the skilled trades field. He started his career in Hollywood as a stuntman, following a family tradition. After realizing the stunt business wasn’t fulfilling, he joined his father’s restaurant equipment repair company.
Over time, Josh grew the business into a multi-state operation, earning a spot on the Inc. 5000 list. He also became the author of Blue is the New White and hosts a podcast on empowering blue-collar workers.
In this article, we will look at Josh’s journey and the lessons he learned while building a skilled trade business. You’ll also learn tips for growing your business and how sharing your knowledge can help the whole industry.
How Josh Zolin Transitioned from Hollywood Stunts to a Skilled Trades Business
Switching careers isn’t easy, especially when your whole family works in the same field. Josh Zolin made that change with focus and grit.
A Family Built on Stunts
Josh grew up around stunts:
- His grandfather worked with Charles Bronson
- His family knew Bruce Lee and Chuck Norris
- His parents and uncles were all stunt performers
- Josh taught at the family stunt school by the age of 14
At 18, he moved to California to follow the same path. The job looked exciting, but it brought pain and no real reward.
A Turning Point at a Seafood Restaurant
During a work slowdown, Josh took a job at Sid’s Seafood. When the oven broke, he called his dad. With simple instructions and a borrowed tool bag, Josh fixed it. The owner thanked him. That moment felt different. It felt good.
From Grease to Growth
Josh joined Windy City Equipment:
- Fixed kitchen gear
- Learned safety and service
- Studied business skills
He took customer calls and helped the business grow. Josh found meaning in helping others. His true passion came from doing work that mattered.
Image Credits: Photo by LinkedIn Sales Navigator on Pexels
How a Skilled Trades Business Can Grow from Garage to Multi-State Operation
Growth in trades often starts with solving a real problem. A broken oven in a busy restaurant isn’t just a fix, it’s lost sales and stress. Helping in that moment builds trust and shows the value of the work.
Start Small in a Skilled Trades Business
Most businesses begin with long hours and simple tools. But growing means more than working hard:
- Handle more calls than you’re comfortable with.
- Put every bit of profit back into the business.
- Hire help even if it feels early.
Training new workers may seem cheaper, but it slows growth. Hiring skilled people saves time and avoids repeating mistakes.
Add Services Based on Demand
When clients ask for more, like HVAC or refrigeration, don’t ignore it. Bring in experts who can handle those tasks. Then, look at nearby cities with similar needs and expand there.
Once things run well, share what you’ve learned. Write a book, teach a course, or start a podcast. The goal isn’t fame. It’s to show others that skilled work matters and creates real impact.
Creating Resources Around a Skilled Trades Business
Skilled trades face a growing talent gap. When no one explains the benefits, fewer people choose this path. That’s why building simple, honest resources makes a difference.
Books and Content That Add Real Value
A book that shares what the industry offers can:
- Open students’ eyes to new careers.
- Help teachers guide better choices.
- Build respect for trade work.
Even if the book doesn’t earn big profits, it builds trust. Schools use it. Teachers reach out. It leads to speaking events and real conversations that matter.
Build Strong Networks in a Skilled Trades Business
A podcast can take things further. Sharing real stories from tradespeople builds strong ties. Listeners feel seen and heard. Some guests even turn into team members or partners.
These efforts bring unexpected rewards. You build goodwill, connect with people, and attract talent. That helps your business without pushing for sales. It also helps the whole industry.
When you give the industry a voice, more people listen. That creates growth for one company and everyone involved in the work. And that’s the real return.
Image Credits: Photo by José Andrés Pacheco Cortes on Pexels
How Competitive Drive Builds Stronger Teams in a Skilled Trades Business
Winning matters in business, but it doesn’t have to mean pushing others down. Growth works better when you aim to win and help expand the space for others. Strong leaders compete, but they also raise the standard for everyone.
Build Trust in a Skilled Trades Business
Job interviews often feel forced. But conversations, like those in podcasts, create trust. They reveal values, goals, and working styles. You learn what matters to people and how they think. When values match, hiring feels natural. You don’t need a long process. You already know they fit.
Share Knowledge That Drives Results
Practical skills help workers grow. But pairing those with the right training makes the whole team better. BitNew Academy offers two helpful courses:
- Blue Collar Hero
Teaches leadership, people skills, conflict handling, and how to pass on what you know. - Frontline Financials
Shows how daily choices affect company profits and team success.
Both courses are simple, clear, and made for everyday work. They help businesses grow stronger without overcomplicating things. When everyone understands people and money, teams work better, and results last longer.
Conclusion
Starting a skilled trades business often begins with solving a real problem. Once you succeed, it’s important to keep growing and meeting customer needs.
Expanding your services can help you reach new clients and grow your business. Sharing what you’ve learned through books, podcasts, or courses can help the entire industry and create lasting connections.