Posts by Troy Latuff
From MLB Pitcher to Construction CEO: Kelly Wunsch’s Blue Collar Story
The One About Going From MLB to Successful Construction Company With Kelly Wunsch Most people who make it to the major leagues don’t end up running a construction company. Kelly Wunsch did — and he’ll tell you the two careers have more in common than you’d think. Kelly joined The Blue Collar Trades Show to…
Read MoreThe $100,000 Hiring Mistake Most Home Service Owners Repeat Every Year
The $100,000 Hiring Mistake Most Home Service Owners Repeat Every Year In the home service industries like HVAC, plumbing, electrical, roofing, restoration, and other skilled trades– one problem continues to hold companies back more than almost anything else: Hiring the wrong people. Most business owners know hiring is important. What many don’t realize is just…
Read MoreWhy Most Home Service Companies Can’t Find Techs in 2026
You’ve posted the job. You’ve raised the pay. You’ve tried Indeed, Craigslist, and a staffing agency that charged you $4,000 and sent you two people who didn’t show up. And you still don’t have a tech. This isn’t bad luck. It’s a structural problem and most home service companies are solving it wrong. Here’s what’s…
Read MoreBest Skilled Trades Job Boards in 2026
If you’re an employer trying to hire electricians, HVAC techs, plumbers, or welders right now, you already know the frustration. Generic job boards flood you with hundreds of applications from people who’ve never held a wrench. The construction industry needs over 530,000 additional workers in 2026, and the companies filling positions fastest aren’t posting on…
Read MoreThe Construction Labor Shortage in 2026: What Every Employer Needs to Know
The construction industry needs an estimated 349,000 net new workers in 2026 just to keep up with demand. And that number is expected to rise to 456,000 in 2027 as spending growth picks back up. If you’re a construction employer struggling to fill open positions, you’re not imagining things. 92% of construction firms report having…
Read MoreHow Skilled Tradespeople Accidentally Sabotage Their Careers in 2026
The skilled trades offer some of the best career opportunities in today’s economy. Electricians, HVAC technicians, plumbers, welders, and other trades professionals are in massive demand across the United States. Many skilled trades careers offer: Yet despite these advantages, many tradespeople unintentionally hold themselves back from bigger opportunities. The truth is that most career setbacks…
Read MoreBest Online Trade Schools in 2026: Complete Guide
Online trade school. And once you’re trained, companies like Discount Water Heaters on the Treasure Coast are actively hiring water heater technicians in Floridas offer flexible paths into HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and other skilled trades careers. But not all online programs deliver equal value. Some produce job-ready graduates. Others leave students with theory knowledge but…
Read MoreBest Home Service Franchise Opportunities for 2026: Franchise Buyers Guide
Home services represent one of the strongest franchise investment categories in 2026. Essential services combined with skilled labor shortages create favorable conditions for franchise buyers willing to work in or manage HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and related trades businesses. But not all home services franchises deliver equal returns. Investment requirements range from $50,000 to $500,000. Profit…
Read MoreBest Home Service Business to Start in 2026
Starting a home service business. Water heater installation is one of the most consistently profitable — companies like Discount Water Heaters on Florida’s Treasure Coast serve three counties with same-day response offers immediate revenue potential, recession-proof demand, and clear paths to six-figure income. But not all home service businesses are created equal. The best home…
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