The Elevator Careers Podcast

Hosted by Matt Allred

Business ManagementInterviews guests

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Episodes

144

Latest episode

Aug 2026

Language

EN-US

About the show

The Elevator Careers Podcast is dedicated to the people who spend their lives and careers working in the vertical transportation industry. It is produced for the benefit of both elevator companies who are looking to hire great talent and for those who want to continue to grow professionally within the industry. This is an opportunity to create a dialogue with all of these stakeholders, learning from them and hearing the gems they have gleaned in their professions. The "Elevator Careers" podcast” is an opportunity to pay it forward" by sharing knowledge learned in the business and in the trade and helping others who are on similar journeys.

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60 recent

August 17, 2026Episode 3145 min

Elevators, Codes, and Consequences: Lessons from 55 Years in the Industry | Lee Rigby

Today's guest is Lee Rigby, an elevator code expert who has spent more than 55 years in the elevator industry as a mechanic, contractor, inspector, instructor, consultant, and now expert witness. In this episode, Lee shares insights from decades of interpreting and teaching elevator codes and explains some of the industry's most common misconceptions about modernization and code compliance. We also discussed what years of expert witness work have taught him about the role safety practices and documentation play when accidents lead to litigation. Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction 02:17 - Working on aircraft carrier elevators 04:04 - The complexity of elevator codes and evolving standards 08:28 - A practical definition of modernization 10:02 - The importance of proper documentation 11:45 - A code puzzle: the Citrus Tower 13:50 - Handling old equipment with missing records 16:50 - Code interpretations 19:13 - Solving code puzzles and continuous learning 22:12 - Code puzzle: Fire service upgrade 23:38 - Human nature with accidents and litigation 25:17 - Mechanics’ mistakes during deposition 26:33 - Critical safety checks for door forces 30:37 - The significance of documenting and safety measures 32:38 - Most memorable expert witness cases 37:01 - The risks of skipping safety procedures 40:45 - Shortcuts during inspections and maintenance 42:36 - What separates excellent documentation 44:44 - Case study: documentation gaps 46:34 - What the industry still needs to learn about code and safety 48:07 - The roles Lee has peformed: lessons from a well-rounded career 51:06 - Lee’s ongoing passion for the industry Resources: Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/@elevatorcareers/ Submit a Topic Idea for the Podcast: https://elevatorcareers.net/ Connect With Us: linktr.ee/AllredGroup A Message From Our Sponsor: Looking for top-tier talent to join your team? Call The Allred Group for your elevator recruiting needs! With a deep network and unmatched industry expertise, we quickly connect you with skilled professionals who are ready to elevate your team. Let us handle the hiring process, so you can focus on growing your business with the best in the industry. Reach out today, and let us help you take your business to new heights! To contact us go to: https://allredgroup.com

August 10, 2026Episode 3030 min

Elevator Traveling Cables: Innovation, Codes, and Reaching New Heights | Dillard Green

Today's guest is Dillard Green, a manufacturing and engineering expert with over four decades of experience supporting the elevator industry. Throughout his career, Dillard has worked at the intersection of manufacturing, engineering, code compliance, and innovation, helping develop solutions for everyday buildings and iconic projects like the Burj Khalifa and Disney's Tower of Terror. In this episode, we explore the role of elevator traveling cables and the lessons he's learned throughout his career. Chapters: 00:00 Intro 01:31 Dillard’s Career Journey 03:59 The Importance of Elevator Traveling Cables 07:13 Navigating Industry Standards and Regulations 09:27 Innovation vs. Code Regulation in Elevator Technology 20:46 Audio Visual Code Change 21:58 Unique Projects: Burj Khalifa and Disney's Tower of Terror 28:46 Advice for New Professionals in the Industry 29:45 Outro Resources: Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/@elevatorcareers/ Submit a Topic Idea for the Podcast: https://elevatorcareers.net/ Connect With Us: linktr.ee/AllredGroup A Message From Our Sponsor: Looking for top-tier talent to join your team? Call The Allred Group for your elevator recruiting needs! With a deep network and unmatched industry expertise, we quickly connect you with skilled professionals who are ready to elevate your team. Let us handle the hiring process, so you can focus on growing your business with the best in the industry. Reach out today, and let us help you take your business to new heights! To contact us go to: https://allredgroup.com

August 4, 2026Episode 2959 min

From Mechanic to Business Owner: Residential Elevator Franchising

This episode is a live discussion about residential elevators and franchise ownership with Casey Dyon and Alex Martin, owners with Nationwide Lifts. Residential elevators are becoming an increasingly practical accessibility solution, and franchising provides experienced elevator professionals a supported path from technician to business owner. Alex and Casey share their journeys from elevator mechanics to business owners while discussing customer misconceptions, hiring challenges, accessibility solutions, and the value of building a business franchise with the support of an established network. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 02:13 Journey from Technicians to Business Owners 10:02 The Importance of Residential Elevators 21:08 Educating Homeowners on Elevator Installation 28:05 Homeowner Insights Before Installation 30:53 Modernization and Lifespan of Residential Elevators 34:24 Challenges in Finding Talent for the Elevator Industry 44:34 The Ideal Franchise Owner Profile 50:25 Franchise Ownership vs. Independent Business Ownership Resources: Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/@elevatorcareers/ Submit a Topic Idea for the Podcast: https://elevatorcareers.net/ Connect With Us: linktr.ee/AllredGroup A Message From Our Sponsor: Looking for top-tier talent to join your team? Call The Allred Group for your elevator recruiting needs! With a deep network and unmatched industry expertise, we quickly connect you with skilled professionals who are ready to elevate your team. Let us handle the hiring process, so you can focus on growing your business with the best in the industry. Reach out today, and let us help you take your business to new heights! To contact us go to: https://allredgroup.com

July 27, 2026Episode 2832 min

Preparing Your Elevator Business for a Successful Exit | Jessica Hellman

Today's guest is Jessica Hellman, a business advisor specializing in mergers and acquisitions with Lift Business Advisors, Inc. With a background in applied mathematics and data analysis, Jessica has helped business owners understand what drives value, growth, and successful transitions. In this episode, we discuss private equity, business valuation, trust, and the steps owners can take today to build a stronger company. Chapters: 00:00 Intro 01:17 Jessica’s Background 02:32 Transitioning into the Elevator Industry 06:00 Elevator Business Dynamics 08:04 Implementing Change in the Business 11:46 People and Relationships: Make or Break the Business 14:54 Private Equity and Market Trends 20:29 Valuation and Business Saleability 22:51 Challenges in Mergers and Acquisitions 28:02 Getting into M&A 29:39 Advice for Elevator Business Owners 32:08 Outro Resources: Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/@elevatorcareers/ Submit a Topic Idea for the Podcast: https://elevatorcareers.net/ Connect With Us: linktr.ee/AllredGroup A Message From Our Sponsor: Looking for top-tier talent to join your team? Call The Allred Group for your elevator recruiting needs! With a deep network and unmatched industry expertise, we quickly connect you with skilled professionals who are ready to elevate your team. Let us handle the hiring process, so you can focus on growing your business with the best in the industry. Reach out today, and let us help you take your business to new heights! To contact us go to: https://allredgroup.com

July 20, 2026Episode 2731 min

Elevator Expertise & AI: Preserving the Past While Building the Future | Carlos Escobar

Today’s guest is Carlos Escobar, Traction Elevator Aficionado with Hyperion Solutions. Carlos grew up in a machine shop surrounded by craftsmen who could turn raw metal into solutions and that mindset still drives everything he does today. Carlos has spent his career tackling the toughest elevator modernization challenges and preserving century-old machines. More recently, he has been thinking deeply about where AI, training, and the future of the trades are headed next. Chapters: 00:00 From Machine Shop to Mastery 04:58 The Allure of Legacy Equipment 07:32 Lessons from the Old Machines 09:56 Complex Challenges in Modernization 12:45 The Importance of Technical Expertise 15:42 AI: The Future of Training 18:24 Training the Next Generation 20:50 Mentorship and Industry Connections Resources: Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/@elevatorcareers/ Submit a Topic Idea for the Podcast: https://elevatorcareers.net/ Connect With Us: linktr.ee/AllredGroup A Message From Our Sponsor: Looking for top-tier talent to join your team? Call The Allred Group for your elevator recruiting needs! With a deep network and unmatched industry expertise, we quickly connect you with skilled professionals who are ready to elevate your team. Let us handle the hiring process, so you can focus on growing your business with the best in the industry. Reach out today, and let us help you take your business to new heights! To contact us go to: https://allredgroup.com

July 13, 2026Episode 2636 min

The Voice of the Elevator: Smart Maintenance & Connected Buildings | Robert Schram

In this episode, I sat down with Robert Schram from Cedes to talk about how technology is reshaping the elevator industry. Robert’s path into elevators started in construction, laying flooring to fund surfing trips, before eventually working his way from field repair into some of the most advanced conversations happening around IoT, predictive maintenance, and smart buildings. We discussed the evolution of elevator safety, what it means to “unleash the voice of the elevator,” and how new technology could transform the way elevators are maintained. Chapters: 00:00 Intro 01:40 Journey into the Elevator Industry 05:52 Innovations in Elevator Safety Technology 07:49 The Future of Elevator Maintenance 10:14 Data-Driven Decision Making in Elevators 13:35 The Role of IoT in Elevators 15:45 Challenges in Adopting New Technologies 19:22 The Importance of Transparency in Elevator Services 27:41 Smart Behavior and Future Innovations 31:36 Elevators in the Connected Building of the Future 34:38 Advice for the Next Generation in the Industry 35:55 Outro Resources: Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/@elevatorcareers/ Submit a Topic Idea for the Podcast: https://elevatorcareers.net/ Connect With Us: linktr.ee/AllredGroup A Message From Our Sponsor: Looking for top-tier talent to join your team? Call The Allred Group for your elevator recruiting needs! With a deep network and unmatched industry expertise, we quickly connect you with skilled professionals who are ready to elevate your team. Let us handle the hiring process, so you can focus on growing your business with the best in the industry. Reach out today, and let us help you take your business to new heights! To contact us go to: https://allredgroup.com

July 7, 2026Episode 2553 min

Building the Next Generation of Elevator Professionals (ABC Apprentice Program): LIVE BROADCAST

In this live episode, I met with Nick Tucker and Brian Thibault. Nick has been in the elevator industry for over 10 years and is a licensed elevator mechanic with experience in service, repair, modernization, and commercial operations. He currently serves as the Commercial Operations Manager at South Jersey Elevator. In addition to his operational role, Nick is a CET instructor. Brian is the Vice President of Education and Training at Associated Builders and Contractors New Jersey. Since entering the construction industry in 2002, he has advanced through nearly every level of the profession. Now, as a licensed electrician, secretary, and instructor for the New Jersey Electrical Group, Brian is dedicated to developing the future of the skilled trades. In this conversation, we dove into one of America's only non-union elevator apprenticeship programs, and how it can give young people more access to the elevator trade. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 00:03 The Workforce Crisis in Construction 02:00 Misconceptions About Skilled Trades 04:48 The Importance of Apprenticeship Programs 07:59 Corporate Investment in Workforce Development 10:41 Nick's Career Journey in Elevators 14:00 Brian's Career Path and ABC's Mission 16:51 The Role of ABC in Workforce Development 19:40 Finding Opportunities in Skilled Trades 22:41 Elevator Apprenticeship Program Development 25:52 Training Structure and Safety Protocols 29:52 Skills for Modern Apprentices 33:50 Opportunities After Completing Apprenticeship 36:59 Starting an Elevator Apprenticeship Program 39:53 Innovation in the Elevator Industry 40:46 Recruiting for Apprenticeship Programs 42:46 Apprenticeship Enrollment Process 45:54 Middle School Construction Camps 46:51 Rapid Fire Questions and Insights 51:46 Future of Workforce Development and Apprenticeships Resources: Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/@elevatorcareers/ Submit a Topic Idea for the Podcast: https://elevatorcareers.net/ Connect With Us: linktr.ee/AllredGroup A Message From Our Sponsor: Looking for top-tier talent to join your team? Call The Allred Group for your elevator recruiting needs! With a deep network and unmatched industry expertise, we quickly connect you with skilled professionals who are ready to elevate your team. Let us handle the hiring process, so you can focus on growing your business with the best in the industry. Reach out today, and let us help you take your business to new heights! To contact us go to: https://allredgroup.com

June 29, 2026Episode 2432 min

Reflecting on 46 Years in the Elevator Industry | Michael Ryan

Today's guest is Michael Ryan, vice president of business development with the Peelle company. Mike is a long-time elevator industry leader whose career spans more than 46 years. From being hired over the phone into the wrong role to becoming one of the industry's most recognized experts in freight elevator doors, Mike has seen decades of change across the elevator world. As he prepares for retirement, Mike joined me to reflect on the lessons, relationships, and experiences that have helped define his remarkable career. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Mike Ryan's Journey 04:56 The Evolution of the Elevator Industry 07:36 Understanding the Collaborative Nature of Elevators 09:31 Challenges and Misconceptions in the Elevator Industry 12:13 Lessons Learned and Advice for the Next Generation 15:03 The Importance of Community and Relationships 17:56 Looking Back: Reflections on a Career 20:06 Preparing for the Future of the Elevator Industry Resources: Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/@elevatorcareers/ Submit a Topic Idea for the Podcast: https://elevatorcareers.net/ Connect With Us: linktr.ee/AllredGroup A Message From Our Sponsor: Looking for top-tier talent to join your team? Call The Allred Group for your elevator recruiting needs! With a deep network and unmatched industry expertise, we quickly connect you with skilled professionals who are ready to elevate your team. Let us handle the hiring process, so you can focus on growing your business with the best in the industry. Reach out today, and let us help you take your business to new heights! To contact us go to: https://allredgroup.com

June 22, 2026Episode 2328 min

Leadership, AI, and Modernization in the Elevator Industry | Ricky Williams

In this episode, I sat down with Ricky Williams, a seasoned elevator industry leader whose career spans engineering, sales, business development, and executive leadership. Ricky is currently serving as vice president of business development and sales at ESI. Over the years, he's built a reputation for combining technical knowledge with a practical people-centered leadership style. Ricky's perspective is shaped by decades of hands-on industry experience and a strong belief that understanding both people and field operations is key to long-term success. Chapters: 00:00 Ricky's Current Role and Responsibilities 05:09 Lessons from Early Career in Engineering 07:39 Technology Evolution in the Industry 10:32 Predictive Maintenance and Its Challenges 13:23 Understanding Elevator Modernization 16:31 Transitioning from Engineering to Sales 18:13 Pros and Cons of Industry Consolidation 20:36 Leadership Lessons and Team Collaboration 23:30 The Future of Vertical Transportation Technology 26:20 Reflections and Advice for the Future Resources: Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/@elevatorcareers/ Submit a Topic Idea for the Podcast: https://elevatorcareers.net/ Connect With Us: linktr.ee/AllredGroup A Message From Our Sponsor: Looking for top-tier talent to join your team? Call The Allred Group for your elevator recruiting needs! With a deep network and unmatched industry expertise, we quickly connect you with skilled professionals who are ready to elevate your team. Let us handle the hiring process, so you can focus on growing your business with the best in the industry. Reach out today, and let us help you take your business to new heights! To contact us go to: https://allredgroup.com Resources: Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/@elevatorcareers/ Submit a Topic Idea for the Podcast: https://elevatorcareers.net/ Connect With Us: linktr.ee/AllredGroup A Message From Our Sponsor: Looking for top-tier talent to join your team? Call The Allred Group for your elevator recruiting needs! With a deep network and unmatched industry expertise, we quickly connect you with skilled professionals who are ready to elevate your team. Let us handle the hiring process, so you can focus on growing your business with the best in the industry. Reach out today, and let us help you take your business to new heights! To contact us go to: https://allredgroup.com

June 15, 2026Episode 2237 min

Establishing Elevator Safety: Habits, Risks & Responsibility | Mike Luraschi

In this episode, I sat down with Mike Luraschi, VP of Safety and Risk Management at TEI Group, to talk about safety in the elevator industry: how it’s evolved over the years, why complacency creates the biggest risks, safety resources for small companies, and why mental health support is essential for making sure everyone gets home safely. Chapters: 00:00 Intro 01:07 Getting into the Elevator Industry 03:23 The Importance of Safety in the Elevator Industry 05:15 Transitioning to Safety Leadership 06:38 Individual Responsibility for Safety 09:19 Unique Challenges of Safety in the Elevator Industry 12:06 Level of Acceptable Risk 17:34 Complacency and its Dangers 24:43 Building a Safety Culture 28:00 Safety Resources for Smaller Companies 30:45 Mental Health & Safety in the Workforce 36:21 Final Thoughts on Safety and Community Resources: Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/@elevatorcareers/ Submit a Topic Idea for the Podcast: https://elevatorcareers.net/ Connect With Us: linktr.ee/AllredGroup A Message from our Sponsor: Looking for top-tier talent to join your team? Call The Allred Group for your elevator recruiting needs! With a deep network and unmatched industry expertise, we quickly connect you with skilled professionals who are ready to elevate your team. Let us handle the hiring process, so you can focus on growing your business with the best in the industry. Reach out today, and let us help you take your business to new heights! To contact us go to: http://allredgroup.com Resources: Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/@elevatorcareers/ Submit a Topic Idea for the Podcast: https://elevatorcareers.net/ Connect With Us: linktr.ee/AllredGroup A Message From Our Sponsor: Looking for top-tier talent to join your team? Call The Allred Group for your elevator recruiting needs! With a deep network and unmatched industry expertise, we quickly connect you with skilled professionals who are ready to elevate your team. Let us handle the hiring process, so you can focus on growing your business with the best in the industry. Reach out today, and let us help you take your business to new heights! To contact us go to: https://allredgroup.com