Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/401422
28 • NOVEMBER 2014 • WORLD FENCE NEWS World Fence News – Your No. 1 Source of Fencing Information for 30 Years! Fence industry leaders share their insight BY TOM LUBY, PRESIDENT, PROFIT BUILDERS INTERNATIONAL To pick up where we left off last month, we were reviewing questions and answers from fellow fencers to see what we can learn about our in- dustry and to share some common (or not) interests and concerns. As I mentioned last month, once again I have reached out to a group of fencers with a series of questions con- cerning issues central to our industry and concerns from everyday contrac- tors and installers. This time I turned to the AFA for help, and with the aid of Tony Thorn- tom, the executive director, we found a number of willing participants for my interview questions. I again want to thank Randy Ward of Modern Fence, Scott Neal from Abbey-Fritz Fence Company, Bobby Batchelor from Seegars Fence Co., David Gregg from Sunnyvale Fence, and of course, Tony. My first question to the group was of a personal nature. I asked my fence industry friends: "What attracted you to the fence (or deck/railing) business in the first place and what do you most like about the fence business today?" (After their comments in quota- tion marks, you'll occasionally see my remarks following them.) Bobby was first to respond, and he had this to say: "I enjoy solving prob- lems that seem to stump others. Every job comes with its own constraints and that excites me… keeps it interesting." Randy had this very unique and interesting perspective: "It was either become a drug addict or a fence guy! Really, it was just the job I got out of high school. That being said, I really do enjoy what we do." Can't say Randy is not blunt and to the point, and I certainly think he chose well in his career options! Scott commented that for him it was, "The pride that comes from a great installation. Creating some- thing." David pointed out he was "Inter- ested in the automation of gates and got off on the fencing portion. Dig- ging holes for a living – what was I thinking?" I don't know David, maybe stand- up comedy could be more up your al- ley, ha, ha. Tony commented that "It must have been a planned destiny – I have been in this industry for 35+ years and have loved every aspect of it. I have been involved on the contractor side, wholesale/distribution side and the manufacturing side of our indus- try. The professional people that work daily to improve our industry are our greatest asset!" With that in mind, next I asked: "What advice would you have for those getting (or not getting) into the business?" David astutely commented, "Make sure you have analyzed all as- pects before jumping off the cliff. Be sure you know what the cost of doing business really is." Scott simply added "Constantly educate yourself." To that same question Randy add- ed, "It is a great business to get into. Start slow; forced growth is always best. Join the AFA and get involved continued on page 30