Overcoming Challenges and Growing a Metal Fabrication Business

Larry Sisko, owner/VP of Iron Strong Metal Fabrication, shares his journey from being a lead welder to owning his own company. He grew up in the metal fabrication industry, working with his dad and developing a love for welding. After trying college and other jobs, he eventually decided to work full-time for his dad. However, a fight with his dad led him to leave and start his own fabrication shop with his business partner. They faced challenges, including the impact of COVID-19, but have grown their business and now have a 32,000 square foot facility with 30 employees. Larry discusses his experience in managing a metal fabrication business and highlights the importance of customer relationships and quality control. He shares his favorite aspects of sales and project management, emphasizing the need for persistence and strong communication skills. Larry also reflects on his personal growth as a leader and the challenges of delegation. He discusses the importance of craftsmanship and going above and beyond for customers. Larry shares his approach to handling employees leaving on good terms and motivating his teams. He expresses excitement about the future of metal fabrication, including the use of laser welding and taking on larger projects. In this conversation, Brandon and Larry discuss the challenges of managing workload and maintaining a healthy work-life balance in the industrial metal fabrication industry. They emphasize the importance of open communication, creating a positive work culture, and avoiding overburdening employees. Larry shares his experience of finding stability in workflow and spreading out the workload to prevent burnout. They also discuss the significance of humility, taking care of one's health, and seeking advice from experienced peers. Overall, the conversation highlights the need for a balanced approach to work and personal life in order to achieve long-term success.


Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Larry's Journey in Metal Fabrication
03:04 Pivoting and Adapting During COVID-19
07:36 Growth and Challenges in the Metal Fabrication Business
10:59 The Importance of a CFO and Peer Groups
25:12 Building Strong Customer Relationships and Providing Excellent Service
30:45 Delegation and Personal Growth as a Leader
38:24 The Importance of Craftsmanship and Going Above and Beyond
40:50 Handling Employee Departures and Maintaining Positive Relationships
45:13 Motivating Teams and Encouraging Growth
48:47 The Future of Metal Fabrication: Laser Welding and Larger Projects
52:38 Managing Workload and Work-Life Balance
55:33 Open Communication and Positive Work Culture
57:23 Preventing Employee Burnout and Spreading Out the Workload
01:05:27 Seeking Advice and Learning from Experienced Peers