We interviewed Eldon between talking to clients on the phone at his Victoria office.

1. How did you get started in this job?

I went into sheet metal because it paid better than autobody work and was cleaner. I moved from Edmonton to Victoria and started working for a sheet metal company. I had a few side jobs and then the company I was working for started to slow down so I started my own company and never looked back. None if it was planned, it just happened. The sheet metal business led me to other opportunities and I am currently diversified into refrigeration and plastics.

2. If you knew then what you know now about the job, would you have done anything differently?

Hind sight is cheap. I've had several different businesses, some good and some bad. If you think there is an opportunity, follow through. It is important to get the right people and it's always a good idea to listen to someone who has been in the business.

3. What would you say to someone starting out in this career today?

Every trades person and worker has a level of pay they expect and, if you don't pay it, they leave. Build your company on a base of people that want the business to succeed. People have aspirations, give them the freedom to grow and it will come back to you. It is gratifying to have a business that is working well but it is easier to work for someone else, so you need to consider that before you decide to be your own boss. Basically, you need average intelligence, common sense and a motivated attitude and you will do well.

4. Where do you see yourself going with this job in the future?

I am working towards a point where each of my three businesses can operate smoothly with me only doing management. Currently, I still spend a fair amount of hands-on time with the projects.

5. What are some of the main forces of change in the industry right now? How will those changes affect you?

In 10 years there will be a shortage of quality workers and it will happen all at once. I'll be 60 years old pretty soon and when all the people like me retire, some great opportunities will be created for younger people.