Can't Stop the Growth From $5 to $6.7M: Tom & Karen Balko’s Journey to Scaling a Home Services Powerhouse
May 8, 2025
Karen Balko, co-owner of Vector Services, discusses her journey from financial struggles to scaling a $6.7 million HVAC and electrical company in the Twin Cities. She emphasizes the power of servant leadership, sharing how answering customer calls at 2 AM has built trust. Karen highlights the importance of a strong brand and company culture in attracting talent. The couple's insights on navigating growth, personal anecdotes, and the humor in their challenges offer invaluable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs in the home services industry.
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Humble Start and Partnership
- Tom started from humble beginnings in 2014, earning just $5 to decide between gas or food.
- He met Karen during this tough time, and together they began building their company, Vector Services.
Trades Enable Access and Growth
- The trades industry allows people without wealth or formal education to succeed through will and drive.
- Partnerships and family involvement are common success factors in trades businesses like Vector Services.
Rapid Expansion and Branding
- Vector Services expanded quickly, going from no electrical department and no branded vehicles to 27 wrapped vehicles within a year.
- Their team grew from two electricians to eight, signaling significant growth and investment in brand visibility.
