Make Trades Great Again

Longtime friend of MTGA, Jason Norman joins Eric & Andy to get deeper into the EV Fleet debate. Will we be forced to change our work schedules, driving habits? Will field techs no longer get to drive their work van home? This has been a very popular topic for the podcast, thank you all for the feedback and listens! Send us a textSend us your feedback or topic ideas over on our social channels!Eric Aune @mechanicalhub Andy Mickelson @mick_plumbNewsletter sign up: https://bit.ly/MH_email

Exploring the intricacies of remote monitoring for security systems and installation of Tekmar controls in a commercial storage facility. Highlighting the benefits of internet-connected controls in optimizing boiler operations and the convenience of making parameter changes remotely. Discussing the use of smart snowball control technology in HVAC systems and the advanced capabilities of a new boiler control system for large-scale operations.

Experienced tradesman Eric Aune shares tips on maintaining a clean shop and organized work vehicles, emphasizing productivity and professionalism. They discuss decluttering post-winter, using metal cutting circular saws, and the importance of a tidy workspace. The conversation includes humorous anecdotes about garage sales and music tastes, showcasing the benefits of systematic cleaning for efficiency.

New tool releases, including the M12 tubing cutter and the 'best screwdriver in the world.' Discussion on favorite tools and general tool banter. Insightful comparisons between different cutting tools and practical tool applications. Challenges of scheduling in construction projects and the convenience of quality tools like a stair climbing dolly.

MTGA friend Denver Baker joins the guys to talk E.V.’s. Specifically, service vehicles for his or the many HVAC contracting companies. The crew talks tech, charging, current offerings from the usual suspects and so new auto makers offering rechargeable cargo vehicles. We’d love to hear your thoughts on the subject! Send us a textSend us your feedback or topic ideas over on our social channels!Eric Aune @mechanicalhub Andy Mickelson @mick_plumbNewsletter sign up: https://bit.ly/MH_email

The guys answer an email from a friend of the show. What do we want from our sales people? Mark says he's recently moved into an outside sales position for the supply company he works for, he's looking for our feedback on what we are looking for from our sales partners in the industry. Send us a textSend us your feedback or topic ideas over on our social channels!Eric Aune @mechanicalhub Andy Mickelson @mick_plumbNewsletter sign up: https://bit.ly/MH_email

Ever just get to a point you cant stand your own playlist? We have and Andy wants to know what you're listening to.  This week the guys relax and reminisce about the early days of XM Radio and talk about some of their favorite things to stream now.   Send us a textSend us your feedback or topic ideas over on our social channels!Eric Aune @mechanicalhub Andy Mickelson @mick_plumbNewsletter sign up: https://bit.ly/MH_email

Some pretty big changes are in the works for how Minnesotans pay for, and use electricity which had the guys discussing everything from electrification, off-peak electrical and the home heating utility usages from one state to the next. To our faithful listeners: No actual investigative journalism was used for this groundbreaking discussion and revelations. Send us a textSend us your feedback or topic ideas over on our social channels!Eric Aune @mechanicalhub Andy Mickelson @mick_plumbNewsletter sign up: https://bit.ly/MH_email

In all seriousness, the guys do talk about a couple recent medical events as a reminder that none of are invincible and taking care of ourselves is paramount to having a long successful career in the trades. Pre-surgery talk started back in February in episode 279: https://maketrades.buzzsprout.comSend us a textSend us your feedback or topic ideas over on our social channels!Eric Aune @mechanicalhub Andy Mickelson @mick_plumbNewsletter sign up: https://bit.ly/MH_email

Exploring tips and strategies for navigating economic shifts, including handling seasonal fluctuations and the impact of high interest rates. Insights on sustaining a plumbing and heating service business with potential applications for other industries. Discussion on the importance of proactive approaches, customer service, time management, immediate pricing, and enhancing customer satisfaction for business growth.