Steve Carroll
CEO and co-founder of Kelso Industries, a national MEP services platform that has grown via dozens of acquisitions to scale HVAC, mechanical, plumbing, and electrical operations.
Top 3 podcasts with Steve Carroll
Ranked by the Snipd community
12 snips
May 6, 2025 • 32min
From the first HVAC Services acquisition to the 25th with Steve Carroll
In this engaging conversation, Steve Carroll, CEO and Co-Founder of Kelso Industries, shares his inspiring journey from a small-town construction background to leading 25 acquisitions in the HVAC sector. He discusses his remarkable success scaling EBITDA at Walmart and reveals key lessons about private equity pitfalls, emphasizing the need for unique market pursuits. Steve elaborates on Kelso’s innovative partnership model, which fosters trust and long-term vision, and shares insightful integration strategies that have transformed the company.
Oct 7, 2025 • 1h 11min
How We Bought 27+ Businesses and Built a $1 Billion HoldCo at 39 | Steve Carroll Interview
Steve Carroll, CEO and co-founder of Kelso Industries, shares his journey from nearly bankrupt to managing a billion-dollar company through strategic acquisitions of HVAC and mechanical businesses. He discusses the pivot from a broken first deal to a partnership-driven acquisition model that retains owner expertise. Discover the importance of local operations, innovative cash management, and recruiting talent to scale while preserving company culture. Plus, Steve reveals his best investment advice: invest in hardworking leaders!
Oct 2, 2025 • 1h 25min
#247 LEGENDS | The $1.2B Contractor: How Kelso Built a Billion-Dollar Empire
Steve Carroll, Founder and CEO of Kelso Industries, shares his journey of scaling the company to a massive $1.1–$1.2B by leveraging acquisitions and a decentralized model. He explains the strategic Kelso flywheel that starts with construction and expands into maintenance and service. Topics include how to balance centralization with empowering local leaders, the importance of leadership pipelines, and adapting to market demands, particularly in data centers. Carroll emphasizes a partnership approach that respects local teams while driving growth.
