Learn how Steve Stone, Master Plumber and ShuBee® CEO, started his own plumbing company in 1979 and what helped propel him and his company into a huge success.

When I was growing up summers often consisted of me tagging along with my dad on his plumbing jobs. I knew that was the direction I was headed in right then and there. When I finished with school, I went to work for him full-time. He was in the “new construction” and I learned very quickly the downfalls of his job. New construction is all bid work, which basically means that whoever makes the biggest mistake, whoever bids lowest, gets the job. Sometimes the price to win a job would barely cover the cost and we would end up breaking even instead of making a profit.

We made a living but it was always a struggle. You see, there is always a cash issue with new contraction. Even with bid work you had to wait 30 days, turn in your draw and sometimes still wait 30 days to get paid. I’m sure if any of you reading this has done bid work you know exactly what I’m talking about. I watched my dad over the years struggle to support his family and struggle to keep his head above water.

I was convinced that there had to be a better way! So, I ventured off on my own and tried to figure it out myself. What I learned was invaluable… but it wasn’t easy.

Be sure to check back next month for the continuation of Steve’s story!