Nygel Kendall Contractor, GSM Services

Favorite quote: “ You miss 100% of the shotsyou don’t take” — Wayne Gretzky

When asked what advice he would give to people who are thinking about getting into this business:

Become a sponge. Soak up everything you can, learn as much as you can about every facet of your employer.Listen to those that have been in the business for a long time. They have experience and more knowledge than any book can teach, so embrace that. Learn from them.

Learn more about GSM Services: www.gsmsince1927.com

Editor’s Note: It is a well-known fact in this industry that as contractors continue to age out of the business, a deepening labor shortage is emerging. Careers in the Plumbing, Heating and Cooling industries can be very beneficial, but often young people entering the workforce are not aware of these careers. It is our aim to help solve this problem. One way in which we are achieving this goal is by asking contractors for their perspective on solutions. Read Nygel Kendall’s here.

What are your thoughts on how to get the younger generation interested in pursuing plumbing/HVAC as a career?

We need to be in the high schools more, and MORE OFTEN. I recently visited a high school and told my story. There were several guys who got really pumped about the potential for this trade. However, 2 or 3 months pass by and they soon forget about it. We need to keep them excited. Perhaps start a database of names of the kids in high school who show interest, and keep sending them emails, and make phone calls, and pay them more visits. Keeping them interested and engaged is the key.

How did you get started in the HVAC business?

As a Senior in High School I really had no clue what I was going to do when I graduated. After looking at several options and running into a lot of dead-ends, I started doing research and discovered the opportunities in the HVAC business. I came across GSM Services. I wasn’t 18 yet, so they couldn’t hire me right then, but we stayed in touch, and that paid off. It’s the best decision I ever made.

Did you have any mentors when you first started in the business? Who and how did they help?

There are a couple that come to mind. My grandfather was a pastor, so his example was definitely a good one. The other was a good friend’s mom. She worked in the business, and after finding out my goals, she worked with me on business etiquette and basically how to succeed in business. Her lessons have served me well.

What’s a favorite book?

Joel Long gave me the book The Compound Effect by Darren Hardy. It has had a huge effect on my life.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years? 10 years?

I want to first become a field manager. Someone who is a liason between the guys in the field, and the project managers in the office. Possibly, I’ll eventually become a project manager but I really don’t want to lose touch with the work in the field.

And the industry?

I think it’s going to be competitive. As more young folks begin to realize you can become qualified to work in this industry with just 2 years of education after high school, and you can earn a very good income, it will become an attractive field for many. I think the companies in business will be vying for the best, and that’s where it will get competitive.