215 - Building a Workforce from Scratch - Michael Cole’s Leadership in the Trades

Michael Cole, President of Next Level Technician, shares how he turned a failed Subway franchise and a few unlikely training classes into a thriving staffing and training company in the low-voltage trades. In a field plagued by high turnover and unpredictability, Cole stands out by building systems that value integrity and grit over credentials. His leadership journey is rooted in real-world trial and error—like discovering too late that some recruits are afraid of ladders or can’t pass drug tests.

Michael’s leadership sharpens through adversity: he reshaped his business model after nearly every early mistake. His approach to staffing centers on deep vetting, video interviews, and second chances for people who own their past mistakes. He’s built a company that sets clear expectations, values honesty, and adapts without lowering standards. This episode is a masterclass in leading imperfect people to create powerful outcomes.

Want to learn more about Michael Cole's work? Check out their website at https://www.nextleveltechnician.com.

Connect with Michael Cole on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/coles-corner/.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply at https://podcast.allies4me.com/podcast-guest/.

Want to learn more about Craig Andrew's work at allies4me? Check out his website at https://allies4me.com/.