Lawrence Business Magazine 2026 Q1

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2026 Q1

& DOUGLAS COUNTY

Publisher: Lawrence Business Magazine, LLC Ann Frame Hertzog & Steven Hertzog Editor-in-Chief: Ann Frame Hertzog Chief Photographer: Steven Hertzog

LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHERS

In every community, there is a quiet engine that keeps homes functional, neighborhoods vibrant, and local dollars circulating close to home. In Lawrence, that engine is powered by our home improvement and service businesses. From contractors and electricians to plumbers, roofers, designers, landscapers, and specialty trades, these businesses do far more than fix what’s broken. They protect investments, build equity, create jobs, and strengthen the fabric of our local economy—one project at a time. Home improvement is deeply personal. A kitchen remodel is where a family gathers. A new roof protects memories. Updated HVAC systems keep children comfortable in August and grandparents safe in January. But behind every project is a network of local professionals whose work supports not just individual households, but the broader economic health of Lawrence. These businesses are often locally owned and multi-generational. They hire local employees, source materials regionally whenever possible, partner with local suppliers, and reinvest their earnings directly back into the community. The dollars spent on a deck addition or bathroom renovation ripple outward to lumber yards, hardware suppliers, equipment rental companies, marketing firms, accountants, and beyond. In a college town like ours, where the rhythm of the academic calendar influences so much of our economic activity, home improvement and service businesses provide stability. They are year-round employers. They provide skilled trades careers that don’t require leaving the community. They offer apprenticeship pathways for young people who want to build something tangible with their hands. And they are essential to our housing market. Well-maintained homes preserve property values and strengthen neighborhoods. Thoughtful renovations make older homes safer and more energy-efficient. Smart design and quality craftsmanship help Lawrence evolve without losing the character that makes it special. These businesses also respond first when things go wrong. After a storm rolls through, when pipes burst, or when a furnace fails on the coldest night of the year, it’s our local service providers who answer the call. Their reliability builds trust. Their expertise provides peace of mind. The home improvement sector also reflects broader economic confidence. When homeowners choose to remodel rather than relocate, it signals belief in the future of Lawrence. It means families plan to stay. It means neighborhoods matter. And it means local businesses benefit from that long-term commitment. As publishers of Lawrence Business Magazine, we are continually reminded that economic development is not just about large-scale projects or headline-grabbing announcements. It is also about the steady, skilled, and often behind-the-scenes work that sustains our daily lives. In this issue, we highlight the builders, problem-solvers, and service professionals who keep Lawrence running. They are craftsmen and entrepreneurs. They are innovators in energy efficiency and design. They are employers, mentors, and community supporters. When you choose a local contractor, hire a local electrician, or invest in improving your home, you are doing more than upgrading a space. You are strengthening Lawrence’s economy, supporting local families, and reinforcing the foundation of our community. Home is where life happens. And thanks to our home improvement and service businesses, Lawrence continues to be a place worth building, maintaining, and calling home. Please note that all our advertisers have a stake in the local economy. Try to shop locally and resist the temptation to order online. If you find something online, see if one of our local businesses has it.

Ann Frame Hertzog Editor-in-Chief/Publisher

Steven Hertzog Chief Photographer/Publisher

www.LawrenceBusinessMagazine.com

ON THE COVER

Clockwise from top left: Paul Werner Architects, Kessler Contractors, Cromwell Solar, Bluestem, M&M Waterworks, McElroys Electric, Absolute Air, Good Energy, Durino Plumbing, McElroys, Pine Landscape Center Photos by Steven Hertzog and provided by businesses.

Featured Writers: Bob Luder Patricia A. Michaelis, PhD Sara Maloney Emily Mulligan Nick Spacek Tara Trenary Darin White Copy Editor: Tara Trenary Contributing Writers: Megan Hill Contributing Photographers: Marlo Angell Jeff Burkhead Carter Gaskins Kristol Kumar

INQUIRIES & ADVERTISING INFORMATION CONTACT: editor@LawrenceBusinessMagazine.com LawrenceBusinessMagazine.com Lawrence Business Magazine, LLC 3514 Clinton Parkway, Suite A-113 Lawrence, KS 66047 © 2026 Lawrence Business Magazine, LLC Lawrence Business Magazine, is published quarterly by Lawrence Business Magazine, LLC and is distributed by direct mail to businesses in the Lawrence & Douglas County Community. It is also distributed at key retail locations throughout the area and mailed to individual subscribers. All rights reserved. No part of this publication can be reprinted or reproduced without the publisher’s permission. Lawrence Business Magazine, LLC assumes no responsibility for unsolicited materials. Statements and opinions printed in the Lawrence Business Magazine are the those of the author or advertiser and are not necessarily the opinion of Lawrence Business Magazine.

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EASLEE

ROMISE

Building a$10M Endowment for Debt-Free Careers

The Peaslee Promise ensures that Douglas County residents can attend Peaslee Tech programs and build great careers debt-free.

Strengthening Douglas County One Person, One Career at a Time YOUR GIFT WILL:

 Provide funding for juniors and seniors from our partner high schools and Douglas County residents from low-income households to attend Peaslee Tech programs and build life-changing careers DEBT-FREE.  Help close the skilled labor gap for Douglas County employers.  Establish a permanent funding source for Peaslee Tech.  Create career opportunities and fuel economic growth in Douglas County for generations.

GIVE NOW! At peasleetech.org/peasleepromise or mail a check to: Douglas County Community Foundation Attn: Peaslee Promise Endowment Fund 900 Massachusetts, Suite 406 Lawrence, KS 66044 Schedule a campus visit! Contact Megan Hill at megan.hill@peasleetech.org or 785-856-1801 ext 104

MORE ABOUT PEASLEE 8

peasleetech.org

2026 Q1

& DOUGLAS COUNTY

CONTENTS: Features: 10

22 30 38 46 52 58 62

Lawrence in Perspective:

Lawrence's Secret Pipeline by Patricia Michaelis, Ph.D.

Not Just a Pipedream

by Bob Luder

Energizing the Future

by Nick Spacek

The Outdoors Reimagined

by Sarah Maloney

In Shocking Demand

by Tara Trenary

Devil is in the Details

by Julie Dunlap

The Heartbeat of the House

by Darin White

Foundations of Trust

by Emily Mulligan

Departments: 7

Letter From the Publishers

14

Non Profit: Building a Pipeline of Talent

18

Professional Spotlight: Bobbie Flory

68

Local Scene

80

Newsmakers

82

What or Where?

Our Mission:

We are dedicated to telling the stories of people and businesses making a positive impact on Lawrence & Douglas County. /lawrencebusinessmagazine

@LawrenceBizMag

TO UPDATE YOUR ADDRESS OR FOR SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION: LawrenceBusinessMagazine.com/subscriptions/

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LAWRENCE & DOUGLAS CO [ IN PERSPECTIVE ]

Grover Barn 1982

Lawrence’s Secret Pipeline According to personal abolitionist accounts, many slaves traveled through town along the Underground Railroad to their freedom. by Pat Michaelis, Ph.D., Historical Research & Archival Consulting image provided by Douglas County Historical Society, Watkins Museum of History

In Kansas Territory (1854–1861), the underground railroad was active in helping slaves, primarily from Missouri, escape their owners and ultimately make their way north, many eventually settling in Canada. Numerous “conductors” gave accounts of the number of slaves they brought to freedom. Not much is known about a man named John Bowles, but he wrote to Franklin B. Sanborn, secretary of the Massachusetts State Kansas Committee, which provided support for free-staters settling in Kansas. In a letter from Lawrence dated April 4, 1859, Bowles wrote: "To give you an idea of what has been done by the people of this place in the U.G.R.R., I’ll make a statement of the number of fugitives who have found assistance here. In the last four years I am personally known to the fact of nearly three hundred fugitives having passed through and received assistance from the abolitionists here at Lawrence. Thus you see we have been continually strained to meet the heavy demands that were almost daily made upon on to carry on this (not very) gradual emancipation.” 10

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John E. Stewart, a former Methodist minister, lived south of Lawrence on the Wakarusa River, He, along with his supporters, were well-known for forcefully driving proslavery settlers from the Kansas Territory. On Dec. 20, 1859, Stewart wrote the following to Thaddeus Hyatt, a wealthy merchant in New York who had been providing financial support to the free state settlers: "I must start on the road again at nightfall to seek a place of safety for two of my black brethren that I have brought thus far from the land of bondage. … I have spent a great portion of my time in this way, & have brought away from Mo. fourteen, including one unbroken family, of which I feel rather proud, & very thankful that I have been able to do so much good for the oppressed." James H. Lane was one of the best-known abolitionists to free slaves, and he was elected to serve as one the first U.S. senators after Kansas was admitted to the union in 1861. During the territorial era, he was active in the military and held the title brigadier general. He marched his brigade through Missouri, and a number of slaves joined his forces. When asked what they should do with the slave in their camp, the chaplain to Lane’s troops The Rev. Hugh Dunn Fisher responded, “all the men were in the army, and the women and children in Kansas needed help to save the crop and provide fuel for winter.” He suggested they send the Negroes to help the families in Kansas. Lane and his troops rescued 218 slaves to keep them from being captured by guerrilla forces in Missouri. Lane’s 14 soldiers and 30 escaped slaves traveled day and night in a caravan. They primarily ate cold food until they stole three cattle from a herd they came across, which they killed and cooked. When Lane and his men crossed into Kansas, Fisher proclaimed that all of those slaves were “forever free.” The Negroes celebrated Fisher’s proclamation, and Fisher later claimed that these were the first slaves formally freed. After his expedition through Missouri, Lane returned to Washington and to his role as a U.S. senator from Kansas. He reported to the Senate on May 15, 1862, that he had helped free 4,000 slaves from Missouri and Arkansas. Lane made numerous claims about how many slaves he helped escape, including a total of 6,400 just two months after his May 1862 speech in the Senate. In June 1862, he told the New York Emancipation League that he had helped another 2,500 slaves receive freedom in the past few months. He also reported that he had 1,200 Blacks in his brigade at one point. These statistics are amazing illustrating so many Negroes were freed by the Underground Railroad and various abolitionist supports. The details of the hardships they encountered while escaping and the constant fear of being captured and returned to slavery can only be imagined. The Rev. Richard Cordley, pastor of the Plymouth Congregational Church, in Lawrence, recorded the experiences of a young woman named Lizzie. His account gives us a look at one former slave’s life as she adjusted to freedom. He said: “She is a very likely young woman and has a great horror of being taken back to slavery. At the same time we do not like to send her to Canada until arrangements can be made for her. She would be entirely alone. So we have been keeping her here in Lawrence. She has been at my house for several weeks, and it is thought wisest to find another home for her. It is not best for her to be too long in one place. Would you take her into your house for a few weeks until other arrangements can be made?” The Cordleys agreed, so Lizzie moved in with them. She was quiet and never bothered anyone. She had been trained as a house slave, so she helped with the housework. She also cooked a variety of meals for the family. She became well-known among the Cordleys' friends for Lizzie cake, which everyone thought was delicious. She was excellent at housework, and the Cordleys were dreading the time when they had to move her somewhere else. She lived with other families for several months. However, her master found out where she was and was determined to return her to his home. Arrangements were made to avoid her recapture, and she left the house with her rescuers after midnight. Slavers were in the area, so Lizzie’s rescuers had to avoid them. The Cordleys eventually learned Lizzie had made it to Canada and had a good life there. One prominent structure connected to the Underground Railroad still remains in Lawrence. Grover Barn, now a fire station on West 23rd Street, was a stop on the railroad. Joel Grover was born in Springfield, New York, on Aug. 5, 1825, and died in Lawrence on July 28, 1879. He came to Lawrence with the second party of the New England Emigrant Aid Company. He began building the barn in January 1858 and finished its construction in October of the same year. The barn became the gathering place for fugitive slaves who had been staying with various Lawrence families to begin the last stage of their journeys north. Annie Soule Prentiss wrote that her brother Silas was friends with John Brown and accompanied him on many of his efforts to bring slaves to Kansas. She wrote: “Brown came to our cabin one night with thirteen slaves, men, women and children. He had run them away from Missouri. Brown left them with us. Father would always take in all the Negroes he could. Silas took the whole thirteen from our home eight miles to Mr. Grover’s stone barn … the Negroes stayed there, hidden in the barn for several days, when a chance offered and they were taken still further toward freedom by another agent of the underground.” Another account of activities at Grover Barn was written by Richard Hinton, a correspondent for leading northern newspapers while he was in Kansas Territory. George B. Gill, mentioned by Hinton, was a close associate of John Brown and led a number of parties of fugitive slaves north from Kansas. Gill mentioned that the “colored folks” cooked up a supply of food for the journey before they left the barn on Jan. 28, 1859. Note: The major resource for this article was a compilation of various accounts gathered by Richard B. Sheridan titled Freedom’s Crucible: The Underground Railroad in Lawrence and Douglas County, Kansas, 1854–1865. A group called Guardians of Grover Barn has a website containing information about the history of the barn, field trips to visit the site and events they sponsor. https://guardiansofgroverbarn.com p 12

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NON [ PROFIT ]

Building a Pipeline of Talent

by Megan Hill, photos by Steven Hertzog

Peaslee Tech is expanding access to hands-on career and technical training in Douglas County, transforming lives while meeting the critical workforce needs of the community. After more than a decade of steady growth, Peaslee Tech is entering an exciting new era, one focused squarely on building a strong, local workforce and closing the skilled labor gap in Douglas County. There is little doubt that Dwayne Peaslee—native Lawrencian, 60-year pipefitter and the visionary for whom The Dwayne Peaslee Technical Training Center (Peaslee Tech) is named—would take great pride in the impact the organization has made in just its first 10 years. Those who knew Peaslee often recall his unwavering commitment to creating a long-overdue technical training center that could meet the workforce needs of Lawrence and Douglas County. His vision is now a reality, transforming lives and strengthening the local economy in the process. One of those lives is Andreia Johnson, a Peaslee Tech pharmacy technician graduate who credits the program with helping her secure a stable career and provide for her family as a single mother. Recently, Johnson was able to take her three children on their first-ever Disney vacation. “Without going to Peaslee, I would not have been able to take them,” she says. Her story is just one example of how workforce training creates real opportunity for local families—and keeps talent rooted in Douglas County. 14

Peaslee Tech’s Charlie Lauts and Jay Hundley building affordable housing in Lawrence

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A certified welding class at Peaslee Tech

To fully appreciate how far Peaslee Tech has come, it helps to understand its humble beginnings. During campus tours, Peaslee Tech CEO Kevin Kelley often shares stories from the early days when the school offered just a handful of programs focused primarily on construction and transportation. One favorite example is the Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) program, which launched with just one student, one instructor and one truck. Today, that same program operates a fleet of four trucks and graduates more than 140 students each year—many of whom go on to fill critical transportation and logistics roles locally. This kind of growth reflects a broader challenge facing Douglas County employers: the persistent and widening skilled labor gap. “We’ve learned that it’s far more effective and efficient to grow our own talent than to try to recruit it from elsewhere,” explains Rob Chestnut, CFO of LMH Health, in Lawrence. “That’s why LMH Health partners with Peaslee Tech. Peaslee can quickly build customized curriculum to meet our workforce needs and provide skilled workers—from phlebotomists to HVAC technicians.” That need for homegrown talent is echoed across Peaslee Tech’s extensive network of employer partners, which now spans 35 careers in industries including health care, manufacturing, automotive, aviation, government and more. These partnerships ensure that training aligns directly with real jobs right here in Douglas County. “At Peaslee Tech, we see this need every day—and we’re ready to meet it,” Kelley explains. “By providing accessible, hands-on technical education for both high school students and adult learners, we’re building a strong, local pipeline of skilled talent prepared to step directly into high-demand careers. And importantly, we’re doing it without requiring students to take on the burden of debt.” To ensure that cost is never a barrier to opportunity, Peaslee Tech recently launched the Peaslee Promise campaign, a fundraising effort to build a $10-million endowment. The endowment will provide full and partial tuition 16

scholarships to high school juniors and seniors, as well as Douglas County residents from low-income households, while also strengthening Peaslee Tech’s long-term financial stability. The goal is simple but powerful: to keep local talent local and ensure every resident has access to career-building education. “Peaslee Tech is an important part of the economic and community health of Lawrence and Douglas County,” says Douglas County Commissioner, Patrick Kelly. “There is a critical need for skilled workers driven by regional economic development, high-tech manufacturing growth and shortages in specialized industries.” While the presence of The University of Kansas and Haskell Indian Nations University contributes to a highly educated population, Kelly notes a growing and distinct demand for technical and trade skills—particularly in manufacturing, health care and specialized fields. Sarah Plinsky, county administrator, underscores that this challenge extends far beyond county lines. “We’re facing a significant labor gap in the skilled trades nationwide,” she says. “Experienced workers are retiring faster than we can train new talent, and demand for electricians, welders, carpenters, HVAC technicians and manufacturing specialists continues to rise.” Local employers feel that pressure every day. Mike Bernholtz, plant manager at Amarr, the third-largest garage door manufacturer in the United States, knows firsthand how essential a skilled workforce is. “At Amarr, we need skilled workers across a wide range of trades, from welders and industrial maintenance technicians to robotics and automation specialists,” he says. “These are great careers with great companies right here in our community.” Now more than ever, the skilled trades represent a powerful opportunity— especially for young people and adult learners seeking stable, well-paying careers. These fields offer job security, advancement, entrepreneurship and leadership pathways, all while supporting industries essential to the health of our local and national economy. Peaslee Tech stands ready to meet this moment by strengthening Douglas County’s workforce one student, one credential and one career at a time.

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PROFESSIONAL [ SPOTLIGHT ]

Bobbie Flory EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR LAWRENCE HOME BUILDERS ASSOCIATION

What is your organization’s most important commodity or service? The Lawrence Home Builders Association’s (LHBA) most important service is advocacy paired with connection. LHBA exists to represent and support the residential construction industry while serving as a bridge between builders, city leadership, policymakers and the broader community. We provide our members with education, resources and a unified voice, while also creating opportunities for collaboration that ultimately benefit Lawrence and Douglas County as a whole. At its core, LHBA helps ensure that housing remains a priority and that those building our community have a seat at the table.

What is your organization’s most important priority? Our most important priority is supporting a healthy, sustainable housing market in Lawrence and Douglas County. This includes advocating for policies that allow housing to be built efficiently and at a variety of price points, addressing barriers that drive up costs and working collaboratively with the city to plan for growth. Housing affordability, availability and predictability in the development process are critical not only for our members but for the long-term economic health of the community.

How many people does LHBA employ, serve and interact with daily, and how many is it responsible to?

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I have been the sole employee for nearly 30 years with a nine-member board of directors. Despite being a small professional staff, LHBA serves a large and diverse membership that includes builders, remodelers, subcontractors, suppliers and industry partners. On a regular basis, LHBA interacts not only with our membership but also with city departments, elected officials, regional organizations and community stakeholders. While we are directly responsible to our membership, the work we do has a broader impact on housing availability, workforce development and the overall growth of Lawrence.

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What have been some of the most important aspects of your success? Relationship-building has been central to my success with LHBA. Maintaining open lines of communication with our members, city staff, elected officials and community partners helps me to be proactive rather than reactive. My willingness to engage in complex or sometimes uncomfortable conversations, while remaining professional and solutions-oriented, has helped establish LHBA as a trusted and respected organization.

How do you and your organization make a positive impact on the community? LHBA makes a positive impact by advocating for attainable housing, supporting industry education and promoting high standards within the building community. Through events such as the Lawrence Home Show, the Parade of Homes, workforce initiatives and educational programming, we help connect residents with trusted professionals and resources. Additionally, our advocacy with city and county leadership helps shape policies that support responsible growth while maintaining the character and livability of Lawrence and Douglas County. I further extend my reach into the community by serving as board chair of the Economic Development Corp. of Lawrence and Douglas County (EDC) as well as vice chair of The Dwayne Peaslee Technical Training Center (Peaslee Tech). LHBA, the EDC and Peaslee Tech are all organizations that strive to improve the quality of lives for our residents.

What do you see as your personal responsibility and your organization’s responsibility to the community? I believe my responsibility is to clearly understand that every dollar spent on a house impacts a potential buyer’s ability to purchase a home, and that becoming a homeowner is critical to reaching long-term financial stability and equity. This was imparted to me long before I began working for the LHBA. My father, Dwight Perry, a longtime local builder and developer, spent his career building entry-level housing. That segment of housing, a critical part of the spectrum, is most directly impacted by policy changes and cost increases. My advocacy has been grounded in this understanding. As an organization, LHBA has a responsibility to be constructive, forward-thinking and a dependable resource on matters that impact housing. By advocating firmly for our industry, LHBA contributes positively to the long-term health and success of the community.

What would you change about doing business (or working with businesses) in Lawrence? Greater predictability and efficiency in the development and permitting process would significantly improve the business climate. Clear expectations and consistent timelines with a collaborative problem-solving approach would allow businesses to plan and invest with confidence.

What is the biggest challenge you feel LHBA faces? One of the biggest challenges LHBA faces is navigating increasing regulations and rising costs while still advocating for attainable housing. Balancing community goals with economic realities can be difficult, particularly as housing demand continues to grow. Ensuring that the voice of the building industry is heard and understood—without being perceived as adversarial—is an ongoing challenge that requires thoughtful engagement.

What do you foresee as being the biggest challenge for the future of LHBA? And how are you addressing or preparing for it? Looking ahead, the biggest challenge for LHBA and our members is delivering safe, high-quality and affordable housing in an environment of economic, regulatory and workforce pressures. LHBA will respond to this challenge by supporting its members with resources, advocacy and education that help them navigate rising costs, labor shortages and regulatory complexities. LHBA will continue to be a strong voice in the community for safe, decent and attainable housing. p

Customized copper pipe can be pre-cut, assembled and brazed in the shop by plumbers for faster, easier installation on site.

Not Just a by Bob Luder, photos provided by businesses

Plumbing is an essential trade in today's society that won't be vanishing anytime soon, not even with the proliferation of AI. The angst is palpable. Two simple letters, AI, send shivers down the spines of countless employees and laborers wondering if and when artificial intelligence will grow so advanced it renders their occupations and means of making a living obsolete. Many fields—journalists, office assistants, accountants—already have experienced fallout from the existential threat of AI. There seems to be at least one occupation, however, where laborers appear completely unfazed by emerging technology. As advanced as AI gets, it’s highly likely it will never be able to repair a leaking water line. Or snake a drain, replace a water heater, install a water softener or remodel a bathroom. 22

Plumbers often weld largescale steel-pipe configurations under controlled conditions in the fabrication shop before installation on the job site

Pipe Dream No matter what the future—at least the near future—has in store, there always will be a need for plumbers.

“There are simply certain things a robot is not going to be able to do,” says John Durino, who founded Durino Plumbing in 2021.

Fortunately for the Lawrence area, there are dozens of plumbing companies available to serve the needs of home and business owners ranging anywhere from large companies employing hundreds of plumbers all the way to one-person outfits running out of a single van. For instance, McElroy’s Inc., covers much of eastern Kansas, employs more than 100 plumbers and pipefitters during busy seasons, and handles mechanical, heating and air-conditioning in addition to plumbing. Then, there’s Rising Son Plumbing, in Lawrence since 2013 and owned and operated by Earl Moise out of his single van. In between, there’s Durino Plumbing, which has three plumbers covering a 30-mile radius around the city, and Advanced Plumbing Inc., which also employs two journeymen plumbers and an apprentice to help owners Chuck and Diane Folks handle plumbing needs of families and businesses in the northeast corner of the state. Whatever Lawrence’s needs, there’s a plumber to take care of them. And, according to these plumbing companies and plumbers, no matter the level of local competition in the field, there’s plenty of business to be had. “Lawrence is very competitive,” Moise says. “But there’s enough work here for everyone.” 23

Plumbers use meters for technical diagnostic work such as gas pressure and valve testing on a water heater.

A Year of Celebration McElroy’s is a third-generation full-service mechanical contracting company that was founded in 1951 by Homer McElroy, continued by his son, Jerry McElroy in 1973 and led today by Jerry’s son-in-law, Dan Beal. This year, the company is celebrating its 75th year of bringing customers exceptional service, craftsmanship and expertise.

Plumbers conduct digital video sewer inspections using a cable with a small camera to clearly diagnose the location and nature of pipe obstructions.

Luke Dumler, McElroy’s plumbing department manager, says the company has been doing an ever-increasing amount of business in Lawrence and surrounding areas. “Lawrence has been our biggest growth market in the last 10 years,” Dumler says. “We do 30 to 40 percent of our plumbing business in Lawrence. We do a lot with (The University of Kansas). There’s always work to be found.” Dumler emphasized work McElroy’s did on the EcoFlow program in Lawrence in the late 20-teens, a project that went into many of the city’s old homes and installed new plasticfit sump pumps to contain and direct storm runoff, providing significant savings to the city in wastewater treatment and management. “The cost compared to building a new wastewater treatment plant was a drop in the bucket,” Dumler says. While McElroy’s does some plumbing work for residences, its business depends on commercial work with large clients such as The University of Kansas (KU) and the city. “It’s a lot easier to grow commercially,” he says. Lawrence’s aging infrastructure, homes and business structures provide plenty of work even for the largest of the area’s plumbing companies, but Dumler says a lot of business opportunities are occurring just to the east of town. “The (Kansas Highway 10) corridor is just booming,” he says. “The new Panasonic plant has just ignited all kinds of growth out that way. We want to try and jump in on all that.” Dumler says plumbing is a great trade for young people to pursue and says his company has started initiatives to get in front of more young people to let them know the benefits. Apprenticeship with a union lasts five years, with apprentices earning while they learn. A journeyman plumber can earn anywhere between $70,000 to $90,000 a year. “It’s a good field to be in,” he says. “Journeyman wages are great, and by the time you’re 50 or 55, you can be doing pretty well for yourself.” Dumler says his business is one that also is built for the long run. “Thirty years from now, that guy who’s been in the job for 30 years is more valuable than a young guy,” he says. “The older you are, the longer you’ve been in the trade, the better you are and more valuable you are.

Chuck Folks, owner of Advanced Plumbing, Inc.

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“Reputation and professionalism are what separate really good companies from ones that die off quick,” Dumler adds.

From residential plumbing to industrial pipefitting. McElroy’s installs and services pipe systems with skill, craftsmanship and care.

McElroys.com

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Born To Be a Plumber Earl Moise gets emotional when it comes to answering a question about how he arrived at Rising Son as the name of his plumbing company. “It’s not me who picked it,” Moise says. “I am a man of faith. I was living with my daughter and son in a small apartment, and we were trying to figure out what we were going to name it. Then, it just came to me in the middle of the night: Rising Son. I think it was divine intervention.” Rising Son has had an interesting evolution as a company during the last 13 years. Moise, a native of the island of St. Lucia who grew up in Brooklyn, New York, started with himself and one other plumber in 2013. The business eventually grew to include seven plumbers. But Moise found that finding and keeping good-quality help was difficult, and his company’s quality control suffered. He’s been downsizing and tackling more of his company’s work himself for a clientele that largely has been with him from Day 1 of Rising Son. He has one part-time employee and an office manager to handle scheduling and communications. “I was juggling help and finding quality help,” he says. “I decided I would rather take care of it myself and control the quality. I have help when I need it.” With an aging housing inventory and limited new-home construction in Lawrence, Moise says much of his work is remodeling—kitchens and bathrooms—and replacements of items like hot water tanks. “Lawrence is competitive,” he says. “But there’s enough work for everyone. Everything right now is decaying. Everything has to be repaired or replaced. Everyone works well together.” Not only do plumbers appear immune from an AI takeover, Moise says the technology boom has proven useful to those in the field. “Technology in plumbing has changed a lot,” he explains. “We’ve gotten a lot more efficient. We have cameras now that go in and spot blockages and breaks. A lot has changed.” One thing that hasn’t changed over the 13 years Moise has been in the plumbing business is this: He loves what he does. “I got into this business by accident, but I never regret it,” he says. “It’s been nothing but a blessing. Growing up in Brooklyn, I didn’t want to go to college but wanted a trade. I remember a friend telling me to go back to college, but I said no way. I had found plumbing and loved it. “What I love most is I’m a problem-solver. I can help people knowing that I love to solve their problems,” he says.

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Earl Moise, owner of Rising Son Plumbing.

Service Is King Born and raised in Lyndon, Kansas, John Durino’s first job was as a plumber’s helper when he was in

eighth grade. Plumbing has been in his blood ever since. He and his family moved to Lawrence in 2016, the same year he earned his Master Plumber License, and five years later, he founded Durino Plumbing with the idea of keeping a narrow focus on the company’s mission and what it’s designed to do for customers. Much of Durino Plumbing’s growth has come from repeat customers and referrals, a reflection of the trust the company has built in Lawrence homes. With that in mind, Durino says the bread and butter of his company is service. The company does all service plumbing jobs except drain cleaning, such as faucets, toilets, waterline and drain line repair, and remodels. For specialized services such as drain cleaning, Durino partners with trusted local companies, allowing his team to remain focused on what it does best. “We provide service different than anybody else,” Durino says. “We want to be in their homes for the next 30 years. Our No. 1 priority is to take care of our customers. The most important thing to have is a building relationship.” Durino employs two other plumbers: Tony Votaw, a licensed journeyman, and Connor Vance, an apprentice. Keeping his ship tight appears to be working. Durino says his company services about 2,800 customers, covering a 30-mile radius around Lawrence, and in 2024 brought in $840,000 in gross revenue. “We never have a problem staying busy,” he says.

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“Just Plumb Smart” Lifelong Douglas County resident Chuck Folks established Advanced Plumbing Inc. in 2008 with a mission of providing a comprehensive array of services with a small group of experienced plumbers. Folks, a master plumber, has three other plumbers— two journeymen and one apprentice—and wife, Diane, as office administrator but is not shy about tackling big jobs. “We’ve had more of a focus on commercial work, but we’ve never turned down anything,” Folks says. “We’ve always done service, repair and everything else. There’s quite a bit of work (around Lawrence), and we have no trouble staying busy year-round.” Both journeymen plumbers, Cory Delg and Ramiro Rosales, have been with Advanced for several years, and Folks, who got into plumbing as a young boy through his family and always has stressed a “family-first” motto at Advanced, knows he’s fortunate.

John Durino, and his team at Durino Plumbing (Photos by Kristol Kumar Photography)

“We feel labor issues like everyone else,” he says. “I heard somewhere that, for every seven people coming out of (trade occupations), one is coming in. The average age for a tradesman is 45. With the dawn of IT (information technology), there are more computer jobs, more desk jobs.” Folks says he sees a turn coming in recruitment for trade positions spurred by increasing salaries and promotion from celebrity tradespeople such as TV personality Mike Rowe. “I don’t know if we’re realizing (an upswing in people going into trades) quite yet, but we will in the next five to 10 years,” he says. Folks says Advanced, which has as its motto “Just Plumb Smart,” has more than 3,000 customers from Lawrence to Topeka to Ottawa to Kansas City and all the smaller communities in between. The company deals in everything from drain cleaning, garbage disposals, gas line repair and installation, underground lines, water heaters, sewer lines and grease traps. It also is a prequalified program plumber for Lawrence’s EcoFlow program.

Durino has also taken the scariness of AI and turned it on its head, leveraging the emerging tech to his company’s benefit. “There are certain things a robot is not going to be able to do,” he says. “We use AI to help with everyday busy things, like invoicing, billing, helping figure out the numbers. It’s like having a virtual (chief financial officer).” And he sees great potential to expand the company in the coming years. Durino hopes to add one more plumber this year—he already has bought a van to accommodate that—and says that if, someday, he had 10 plumbers on board, he’d be fine with it. He also says he couldn’t imagine a better community to start his business than Lawrence. “I believe Lawrence still has a small-town feel,” he says. “Everybody is connected. Word gets around. If you show up, follow up and charge a good price, people notice. “It’s a great word-of-mouth town," he continues. "And there’s no better way to honor me than by giving someone my name to help them.” 28

“It seems like there’s more work in some of the remote areas, which has led us to travel more,” he explains. “We’ve always done new repair work. But when it comes to new construction, we’ve had to travel more.” Over the last few years, Folks says about 70 percent of his company’s work has been commercial, but today, it’s closer to 50/50 between commercial and residential. “I’d like to see it swing even more residential and local commercial jobs with local contractors,” he says. Advanced Plumbing has two vans out on the Lawrence streets and Douglas County roads every day. The company also owns its own excavator for digging jobs and has connections to larger excavators if needed. Folks says he’d like to one day get a few more trucks or vans but is fine with where his company is currently. “I like to get (plumbers) green and work them up,” he says. “That takes time. If it doesn’t happen, we’re doing OK.” p

Energizing the Future by Nick Spacek, photos provided by businesses

Sustainable energy products are not only valuable to businesses but are becoming more mainstream, helping consumers of all types save money and reduce their carbon footprints. Sustainable electrical production is having a moment, with the “seemingly unstoppable growth of renewable energy” named as Science magazine's 2025 Breakthrough of the Year. Renewables surpassed coal as a source of electricity worldwide, according to the article "Good Morning Sunshine," by Tim Appenzeller, and solar and wind energy grew fast enough to cover the entire increase in global electricity use from January to June. As renewable energy becomes more mainstream, it also becomes more affordable because of economics of scale. Rather than operating a niche industry, sustainability advocates have seen their projects become adopted by everyone from homeowners to those who run factories. As Science further states, manufacturing in China has resulted in solar panels produced “better, vastly cheaper and in staggering quantities.” Michael Almon, owner of Paradigm Design, which sells and services ecological building products, notes that in his business, it's all about energy as the guiding principle, because, “Without that, we can't really do anything,” he says. On the other hand, Almon continues, if we abuse it, we'll be undermining our own life support system, so it's a matter of how we do things, as well as what we're doing. “As population expands, and with our mass of human-made products that are continuously being depleted by planned obsolescence, resource and energy extraction then has to expand to meet that growing demand,” he observes, pointing out that as things fall apart, they need to be replaced. However, the use of fossil fuels for both energy and material goods makes for a growth curve that really can't continue on a finite planet. “That's the principle that I'm up against when I'm trying to live and trying to do a business to do something that can live within a sustainable planet,” Almon explains. Over the course of his time with Paradigm Design, which began in 1995, as well as his previous businesses Bluestem Electric Co-Op and Simple Goods General store, the business owner has seen numerous products he once purveyed as niche become mainstream. Among them are compact fluorescent lighting, which gave way to LED and can be found at Walmart, along with recycled paper and nontoxic paint. “The principle I'm operating on both in business and in my own life are trying to live a comfortable life, living within the planetary boundaries,” he says. “Mainstreaming these kinds of materials and products helps more people do that.” 30

Cromwell Solar installation at KU Innovation Park on West Campus consisting of over 1000 solar panels across three rooftops and three carports. (Courtesy of Cromwell Solar)

Not Just for the Wealthy The mainstreaming of renewable energy is also something that has been noted by Aron Cromwell, CEO of Cromwell Solar, over the course of his 26 years with the company. When he started with the business that now bears his name in 2000, the CEO says they were installing solar at $12 a watt in today's money and now do it for $3 a watt. “If you think about inflation, that cost should have more than doubled by now,” Cromwell continues. Instead, it's a quarter of its original cost. “It's just really flipped. At the same time, the cost of conventional electricity has gone way up.” The rising costs of conventional energy has garnered Cromwell's company more and more interest, taking solar panel installation from more than a demonstration project or something that's exclusively for the extremely wealthy. While once consumers might have decided to put solar panels on their home because of a one-time 30% tax credit, the price of powering their homes has come to a point where solar makes solid long-term financial sense, especially as standard electricity rates have risen 10% a year for the past half-decade. “It's something that a normal business, nonprofit, homeowner can do and expect a good payback on,” Cromwell explains. “A few years ago, we were looking at 12-year paybacks for residential with the tax credit. Now, without the tax credit, it's still 12 years.” 31

Cromwell Solar installed the panels for DCCCA’s new outpatient treatment facility building in Lawrence

He notes that while the residential tax credit has gone away, it still exists for commercial and nonprofit customers: “They can get it as long as we can get rolling on it here in the first half of the year. After July, it's done.” Some of their commercial and nonprofit projects “are down to five years payback or less, which is fantastic,” he adds. While Cromwell once dabbled in wind turbines and other forms of sustainable energy, the amount of upkeep and maintenance for those projects— while manageable at scale for wind farms—isn't practical for someone who might consider it for their farm, for example. “The nice thing about [photovoltaic], PV has no moving parts,” Cromwell explains. “I'm a science-y guy, an engineer, but to me, it's still magical in a lot of ways. Sunlight hits the roof, and it somehow cools my house. It's amazing. I love it.”

A Technical Revolution Also founded as a more holistic renewables firm is Good Energy Solutions. Kevin Good, founder and majority owner of the firm, holds a patent for a geothermal condenser pump, and in the early days of the company, founded in 2007, Good Energy installed many geothermal systems, as well as some small- to medium-scale wind turbines for residential use that are still operating today. “But as solar went through this amazing technological revolution in the late 2000s, early 2010s, it became pretty clear to Mr. Good that solar was the easiest way to help people just really reduce their carbon footprint and save the most money,” says Malcolm Proudfit, CEO of Good Energy Solutions. “I had a customer today I was talking to, and they were thinking about wind turbines, and logistically for a homeowner, it is just not there,” says Amory Bottorff, Good Energy's vice president of solar sales. “The height and the wind patterns at 250 feet are different than at 50 feet, so windmills never really scaled for residential use. Solar has taken over that market entirely.”

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top to bottom (Courtesy of Good Energy) Good Energy Solutions solar installers Guy Smith and Greg Johnson, install a solar module on the Evergy Service Center in Salina, Kansas. As part of the company's yearly solar giveaway to local nonprofits, Good Energy Solutions solar installers, Guy Smith and Tanner Mason, install solar modules on the roof of Family Promise in Lawrence, Kansas. Good Energy Solutions solar installer, Paul Bolig, installs a solar module on the roof of Crestwood Cabinets in Salina, Kansas.

For utility scale, he continues, wind is great and really cheap in the right spaces, but it does have fare more maintenance intervals and so forth. That said, solar isn't completely free of maintenance. “It is a low-maintenance product,” Proudfit says, and because of that, the company ended up starting a solar service division in early 2025 that keeps a full-time solar service manager and a part-time helper busy going out and servicing existing systems. “It's maintenance free in the sense there's no moving parts,” says Jeff Dunn, Good Energy's vice president of solar operations, pointing out those with solar don't need to go and wash the panels off every day, nor do they have to turn something on and off all the time. “As with any electronics, though, things do go bad, but that's where not only the manufacturer warranties are important when customers are making that decision but our warranty, as well. We're able to go in there and get that taken care of.”

Bottorff notes that while they have service contracts for commercial installs, he sees the potential for a solar service contract that covers checkups, replacement parts and labor, much like the five-year warranty when you buy a new car. Good Energy “tends to come across three different types of customers,” says Proudfit, offering that someone can be a combination of two or three of these categories. There are those seeking energy resilience from the grid, looking to produce their own power and store it on-site in a battery in the event of a backup event. Then there are the people who are financially motivated, looking to save over the long term as opposed to what it would've cost them to buy their power from the grid over 25 years. Finally, there are those who are simply looking to reduce their carbon footprint and leave this planet cleaner and better than it was. "Those people are, interestingly, almost never financially motivated," Proudfit notes of the latter category. "They're almost just looking for the thing that's gonna operate 34

Mike Almon, owner of Paradigm Design

the best and the longest. They're truly doing it with the best of intentions, which is really cool and admirable." Bottorff adds that in his experience being sales or sales-adjacent for 15 years, most customers who are environmentally motivated do have a financial concern with it, as well. "I'd say 90% of customers are looking for smart investments. The financial motivation is huge. Republican, Democrat, Libertarian—doesn't matter. It saves money, and it's smart."

Battery Operated As to where solar is headed these days, both Cromwell and Good Energy agree it's all about batteries. Concurrent with the decreasing cost and quality of solar panels themselves have been better-made batteries that are longer-lasting and cheaper. As the cost on those items have gone down substantially, there are very few customers these days who don't at least want to explore the idea of a storage solution. “The other thing is that the grid has become much more unstable with all the additional power needs,” Cromwell says, pointing out that it is also aging and fragile, and with all those demands and infrastructure issues, there is a resulting disruption in supply. “With the price going down on batteries and the need for continuous power increasing all the time, we see a lot more interest in battery systems.” Battery backups are safe and sound, Bottorff says, pointing out that with the grid instability Cromwell noted, you want battery backup in an outage. “The sun replenishes that battery every single day,” Bottorff concludes. “You don't need any gas or natural gas, propane, etc. And then you have the cost of solar per kilowatt hour—way lower than the utility, and it's frozen for time.” p 36

The Good Energy Solutions commercial solar team installs new modules on the roof of Crestwood Cabinetry, Inc. in Salina, Kansas.

The Outdoors Improve your outdoor space with specialized products and services that create not only beautiful but sustainable landscapes. by Sarah Maloney, photos by Steven Hertzog and provided by businesses

Before anyone ever turns a doorknob, landscaping has already begun to tell a story. “Your outdoor space sets the tone for how a home feels,” says Kathy Pine, owner of Pine Landscape Center. “It creates an emotional connection before you even step inside.” That belief is at the heart of Pine’s work—and the evolution of her family business. After several generations of a traditional farming operation, Pine Family Farms transitioned from traditional farming to sod production and eventually expanded into landscape supplies. In 2013, Pine officially took over as owner/operator, transforming the business into what Pine Landscape Center is today: a full-service landscape/hardscape supplier for both professionals and do-it-yourself (DIY) homeowners. Over the years, the business has steadily grown. Today, a large percent of Pine Landscape Center’s customers are wholesale clients—landscapers, builders and contractors—who rely on the center for materials to complete client projects. The other percentage of clients are homeowners eager to roll up their sleeves and bring their own outdoor visions to life. 38

Yards and patios created, designed with materials from Pine Landscape Center

Reimagined “DIY customers often come in with ideas and inspiration,” Pine explains. “Our job is to help bridge the gap between their dream and what’s realistically achievable.” Providing a local option for quality landscape materials has allowed Pine Landscape Center to continually expand its offerings. From basic construction gravels to decorative rock, topsoil, mulch, sod and many other surface materials, customers can source everything they need to build a project from the ground up. “We started researching our region to figure out where we could source the best products,” Pine explains. “Quality matters. We want people to feel confident they’re building something that will last.” While outdoor projects can feel daunting, Pine believes thoughtful design makes all the difference. “When homeowners choose designs that feel manageable, they’re creating spaces that are both sustainable and maintainable,” she says. “That longevity protects their investment.” 39

Sustainability goes beyond just plant choices. Proper drainage, correct installation and durable materials help prevent future problems—and keep products out of landfills. “Buying quality up front usually saves money in the long run,” Pine says. A well-designed outdoor space also enhances curb appeal and creates a sense of pride. It reflects personal values while making homes more livable—and enjoyable. “We don’t just want our spaces to be livable,” she continues. “We want them to be places people truly enjoy.” Purposeful landscaping can also increase resale value, offering potential buyers a glimpse of what awaits inside. And for current homeowners, it creates opportunities for gatherings, celebrations and everyday moments outdoors.

Grounds for Excellence Turf Masters co-owners Jack Bell and Dustin Nye have been maintaining and transforming lawns for well over two decades. It’s not only important for curb appeal but for the safety and cleanliness of the property, they agree. They strive to be a full-service company, meaning they can take care of present needs and be proactive to prevent future issues. The company is completely locally owned and run. 40

Yards and patios created, designed with materials from Pine Landscape Center

In 2011, Bell and Nye bought their first landscaping business followed by the purchase of Turf Masters in 2014 before merging the two. Their company focuses on maintenance—mowing, irrigation and lawn treatments—but they have been doing more landscaping the last couple of years, Bell says. Walkways, patios, retaining walls and other projects to make existing spaces more usable for residents are some of the landscape projects they’ve focused on recently. Making sure weeds are not becoming overgrown and are away from dwellings and homes is also a good way to prevent issues with pests, Nye explains. Creating slopes that ensure effective drainage away from the property is also a component of maintenance. One of the most common problems Bell and Nye see are those related to shade created by big trees leading to dirt patches. Recapturing areas that were once created with a purpose are some of the easiest ways to make use of already developed destinations, Nye continues.

A Good Investment While outdoor projects can feel daunting, Pine believes thoughtful design makes all the difference. “When homeowners choose designs that feel manageable, they’re creating spaces that are both sustainable and maintainable,” she explains. “That longevity protects their investment.” 42

When coming in with dreams of a new outdoor barbecue space or a new and improved patio, oftentimes it’s important to start with the basics and do research before jumping to what the final project should look like. Making sure the installation process is well done is the first and most important step, Pine explains. “Don't skip the prep stuff." Ultimately, it can be expensive to put money into landscaping since the opposite would be keeping it as is, she says. Recognizing that commitment and taking steps to make sure it’s done right will create the most sustainable result. Rather than thinking about how you want a new space for one specific event such as a graduation party, consider making the best choice to create longterm results. Quick fixes are the biggest thing to avoid in a project like this, Pine says. Some of these considerations are taking drainage into account and making sure that nothing is going to bring water to the house rather than away from the house. When putting in a walkway or a paver patio, it's making sure enough depth is created for base materials so that over time they don't move or crack, especially with Kansas’ winter freezes and thaws. It’s also important to make sure you're finishing out a project in a way that doesn't allow for growth of weeds down the line. Finish joints appropriately as to not allow moisture to go into the group and weeds to grow up.

Patios and paving built by Turf Masters

Creating a lovely outdoor space adds value to not only the home but the property. Taking care of the acreage, rather than just inside the walls, means more value in the future, Pine explains. It’s also one more thing prospective homeowners don't have to worry about upon moving into a new home, she adds. Pine Landscape Center has a staff that is knowledgeable and able to match customer desires with the right products to ensure their goals meet reality. They provide experience-based guidance on materials and applications, Pine says, clarifying that they are not designers or architects, but are able to give knowledge-based advice on items they sell. For example, if someone is looking to build a three tier wall with a patio on the first level and a deck on the second, Pine can help them obtain materials and resources they need, but if they realize they need more help with installation, she can help connect them with the right person to do that installation. For Pine, it’s about more than selling supplies. It’s about empowering people to create outdoor spaces that feel intentional, welcoming and enduring.

Just Add Water If you're looking to go beyond just traditional landscaping, aquascaping can also be a good way to bring another focal point to your patio or front lawn. Matt Llewellyn, owner of 23rd Street Brewery, has had a passion for water falls and features for 30 years. Last year, he decided to make this hobby into M&M Waterworks, a formal business with which he can share his knowledge professionally. His love for water began when he lived in Lake Tahoe in his 20s, and it’s only grown as he’s continued to hone his skills. He’s been able to turn his DIY hobby into a business, a dream he couldn't be happier to share with those wanting to better their outdoor spaces. Llewellyn took classes from Aquascape and developed his skills further before completing a waterfall at his restaurant, which has generated a lot of inquiries and interest, he explains. He’s created pondless waterfalls, water fountains and ponds with waterfall features. He’s also worked on koi ponds and rebuilt fountains that were in need of upgrades. Recently, he completed an indoor water feature at Botanical Dreams, an aquatic plant store in North Lawrence. Llewellyn feels that water features bring a focal point to people's homes—something they can enjoy listening to or kick back, relax and watch. A common misconception he often hears is that these features add extra work to a home. When done correctly, it’s pretty low maintenance, he explains. Picking out leaves and adding water are the main needs after installation. Tinkering with it is one of his favorite parts, he says, whether that’s adding new natural rocks or new components. “I want to share my love for this with other people, and I know that I'm doing that,” he says. If you love doing projects as a DIYer, Llwellyn is more than willing to offer help and guidance. It’s no surprise that these features add property value to a home, but the curb appeal they bring is the main plus, Llewellyn continues. “It's going to be one of those things that could help you sell your home because it’s so cool."

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p

Water features designed by M&M Waterworks

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In Shocking Demand The electrical industry is changing rapidly, and as the desire for new and innovative products and services increases, so does the need for highly trained electricians. by Tara Trenary, photos provided by businesses

Imagine a job where on any given day, things may not go quite as you'd expect. Running into critters in a crawl space. Arriving ready to fix an electrical outage only to learn the tenant instead forgot to pay a bill. Getting shocked by a live wire when you thought the power had been turned off. Accidentally falling off a ladder during a routine electrical repair. Being told about phantom ringing doorbells only to arrive and find a DIY wiring nightmare. Electricians navigate dangerous, complicated and sometimes bizarre situations, requiring a great deal of technical skill and safety consciousness. These skilled workers are essential for both the maintenance of existing systems as well as new construction, making their expertise crucial in today's society. And the need for licensed electricians is only expected to grow throughout the next decade with the advancement of new technologies and the advent of artificial intelligence (AI). "Electricians are essential to modern society because they design, install and maintain the electrical infrastructure powering homes, hospitals and industries, ensuring safety and preventing hazardous failures," 46

explains Brad Hemel, owner of Hemel Electric Inc., a family-owned, service-based company that installs and repairs electrical products across Northeast Kansas. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates that between 2024 and 2034, there will be a shortage of roughly 81,000 electricians on average each year in the U.S., measured in terms of unfilled jobs. It projects the number of employed electricians to grow 9 percent over the next decade, much faster than the average for all occupations. The rapid construction of AI data centers across the country is likely a major driver of the demand for these skilled tradespeople, according to the January Wired article "The Real AI Talent War Is for Plumbers and Electricians." And some giant tech companies have already sounded the alarm about the dwindling pool of workers and are taking steps to address it. For example, Google announced last spring it would donate an undisclosed amount of money to the Electrical Training Alliance, a group that provides training materials for electrical workers, to help 100,000 existing electricians upgrade their skills and train 30,000 new apprentices by 2030, the article states. According to the April 2025 Reuters story "Google Funding Electrician Training as AI Power Crunch Intensifies," a lack of access to power supplies has also become a big problem for these technology companies, all of which is driving up U.S. electricity demand after nearly 20 years of stagnation. "The growing demand of electric vehicles, solar/wind farms and data centers is creating a dire need for more electricians," explains Chris Faulk, president of McElroy Electric, a full-service electrical contractor providing residential and new-construction services, industrial food processing wiring/maintenance, sports lighting design and installation, and commercial building services and maintenance. "As with many trades, there are more highly skilled people aging out of the workforce than there are young people learning to do the work. There is a tremendous opportunity for young people to start long-term, well-paid careers as electricians." To meet this overwhelming demand, the country will need more power plants, transmission lines and the workforce to support it all, and these big companies are willing to pay for it.

Modern Demand for Electricity Locally, there are many drivers of electrical demand, explains Malcolm Proudfit, CEO of Good Energy Solutions, a solar and electrical contractor providing residential and commercial solar systems, as well as battery storage, electrical for new-home builds and remodels, generator installations and EV charger installations. "There are many

Left: Good Energy Solutions electrical apprentice, Dalton Scarlett, installs a ceiling fan in a Lawrence home. Above: Good Energy Solutions service electrician, Chase Kufahl, fixes a faulty light pole at a Lawrence apartment complex. Right: A team of solar service technicians replace a solar inverter on a church roof in Kansas City.

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McElroy Electric Electricians wire intricate building-automation systems for climate control, safety, security, energy management and more.

McElroy Electric Electricians help homes and facilities, such as this school gymnasium, convert to LED fixtures for brighter, more energy-efficient lighting.

into big ones." Typically, homeowners should have their electrical system inspected at least every three to five years, sooner if your home is older than 15 years.

McElroy Electric Commercial construction electricians work from detailed plans as they install the electrical systems in new office buildings, factories, restaurants, schools and stores.

EV adopters in our area, and homes are being built in Lawrence at a healthy pace." Additionally, he says, the Panasonic Plant in DeSoto is expected to have the same electrical demand as the entire city of Lawrence. This has already created the need for additional generation sources and has led Evergy, a utility company headquartered in Kansas and Missouri that provides electricity to more than 1.7 million customers, to ask for 10-plus percent increases in utility rates. "Electricity availability drives our modern society and helps our communities to grow and flourish," Proudfit continues. "This is not an industry that will go away, and in fact, demand for competent workers will only grow as the years go on." When it comes to safety in the home, he stresses that every homeowner should know the location of their electrical panel, how to safely reset breakers and how to identify warning signs like hot outlets, flickering lights or, in older homes, outdated wiring. Key safety practices include avoiding overloaded circuits, never "daisychaining" extension cords and testing GFCIs (ground-fault circuit interrupters) regularly. McElroy's Faulk agrees. "If the owner loses power somewhere in the house, the first thing is to check if any breakers are tripped and reset them. This can easily save you a service call." "Excess heat is a telltale sign of electrical trouble," he continues. "If small issues persist, definitely have an electrician check things out. Small problems can turn 48

But remember, "With electricity, if you feel outside of your comfort zone, it is likely time to contact a professional," Proudfit adds.

A Changing Landscape Electrical demand in Lawrence is heavily influenced by its status as a university town and its position within a rapidly changing regional grid, distinguishing it from both similarly sized municipal peers and larger metropolitan areas like Kansas City, Hemel explains. "Today’s homes have a higher electrical demand than ever before, driven by electric vehicles and overall power consumption. Customers today expect talented, educated service professionals to deliver safety and quality to their families." And along with new demand and the changing landscape of the electrical industry, training and compensation for electricians has also had to change with the times. While the cornerstone knowledge remains critical, new demands require a broader, more dynamic skill set for electricians to remain competitive and meet modern expectations. According to the BLS, every year, nearly 10,000 electricians either retire or change careers, but only about 7,000 new ones enter the field. "While the shortfall finds homeowners lamenting about how long it takes to find an electrician for wiring projects, entire industries— including construction, manufacturing, renewable energy, technology and utilities—are confronting project delays and increased labor costs," it laments. The physics of electricity remain the same as always, Faulk says.

"However, the ways we use electricity and the regulatory environment are changing faster than ever. It is imperative to remain up to date and be ready to adapt quickly and easily." Training has also become very safety-based, Hemel explains. "Whereas it was once viewed primarily as manual labor, it is now a hybrid role combining traditional craftsmanship with advanced training and education." Luckily, Lawrence is home to The Dwayne Peaslee Technical Training Center (Peaslee Tech), a technical training center and the largest Kansas-based provider of apprenticeship programs. According to its website, the center provides hands-on, high-demand career training for high school students and adults, and aims to build a skilled local workforce through its programs. To meet the high demand for skilled residential electricians in Douglas County, Peaslee Tech has developed a training program designed to prepare an individual with the foundational training to develop, through experience and training, into a skilled residential electrician.

Blazing a Path Today’s electricians are leading the charge in technological innovation, moving beyond traditional wiring and circuitry, according to Schneider Electric, a global leader in energy management and industrial automation focused on digitalizing and electrifying homes, buildings, data centers and industries. And with a growing emphasis on energy efficiency and affordability, electricians specializing in advanced solutions are in high demand.

40 YEARS EXPERIENCE

+

McElroy electricians who install and maintain sports lighting require highreaching equipment, specialized fixtures and lamps, and trained expertise.

"Many businesses and some homes have long been using energy management systems that increase energy usage efficiency to save money," Faulk explains. "As the need for electrical generation outpaces increased production, changes on the horizon may mandate more widespread use of energy management systems across the board." One big driver toward a more energy-efficient society is homeowners, who are becoming much more focused on making their homes resilient and adaptable to the changing energy landscape. "More and more, customers are demanding EV chargers in their homes," Faulk explains. "We became a certified installer of home EV chargers a few years ago, and new installations are a growing part of our business. Another important change is the demand for more energy-efficient lighting in homes and businesses. We do a large number of conversions to LED lighting." Hemel agrees: "I believe renewable energy is extremely important in our industry if we are going to keep up with future demand." Ultimately, electricians are essential to modern society because they design, install and maintain the electrical infrastructure powering homes, hospitals and industries, ensuring safety and preventing hazardous failures, he explains. "Electricity is the backbone of modern life," Hemel adds. "It drives the global economy by providing essential and sometimes life-saving power to homes and businesses. I believe the electrical industry is in great shape for the future. I think the biggest challenge we face is finding enough qualified individuals for the workforce." p

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Devil

Working with an architect with knowledge about local requirements when building or renovating a home can save not only time but money in the long run. Many people dream of the opportunity to design a custom home, where every square foot has been thoughtfully appointed for maximum use and comfort, and every wall promises to hold dear each memory yet to be made. They may spend half their lives saving for and contemplating this monumental leap. Once the funding is secured and the shovel sits eager to meet dirt, though, the road from concept to move-in day can be long and unpredictable.

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the

Details

by Julie Dunlap, photos by Steven Hertzog

Left: Paul Werner, owner and architect of Paul Werner Architects looking over design plans with PW architect Bianca Buescher

New-home construction in Lawrence might be down roughly 90% from the boom of 20 years ago, but each home built from the ground up or remodeled to meet a family’s changing needs still brings new business to a wide swath of local companies and independent contractors, from heavy-equipment operators to doorbell distributors. With so many hands at work—and an internet rife with both natural and artificial intelligence clambering for followers willing to make a deep dive into the world of DIY residential construction—where should prospective home builders begin after making the commitment to build their dream home? With more than 30 years of experience as an architect, Paul Werner, owner and architect at Paul Werner Architects, in Lawrence, has had a front-row seat to the evolving art and science of residential architecture as new technology has developed and building trends have changed. He offers guidance for those interested in creating their own home. 53

Local homes designed by Paul Werner Architects

Where To Start Werner recommends that prospective homeowners first consider the location for their home. A design plan can evolve, but the location is fixed. Finding a lot or a plot of land that meets their need for privacy, convenience, proximity to schools and zoning allowances and restrictions requires patience and careful discernment. Carrie Stallwitz and her husband, Dave, understand the need for patience quite well, as they are currently building their own oasis in East Lawrence. The couple, both University of Kansas graduates, have looked forward to moving to Lawrence from Houston for retirement, spending many, many visits scoping out the right spot for their new home. “We knew we wanted to be in East Lawrence in a neighborhood with walkability to downtown,” Carrie explains. They considered both renovating and building something new, avoiding blocks with protective restrictions that aimed to preserve historic architecture so as not to disrupt the aesthetic. “We wanted a contemporary house and didn’t want our contemporary design to stick out.” Their patience paid off, as the couple recently poured the foundation for their home, which will sit on a reconfigured property that previously held three older houses. Zoning regulations, lot sizes, neighborhood context and permitting processes all shape what can (and cannot) be built. An architect familiar with local requirements can help navigate those constraints more efficiently. They also design for the realities of living in different parts of Douglas County, adjusting plans to work appropriately with the property. “We have different things to think about out in the country than the houses we work on in the city,” Werner says. “We’re working on two houses right now that have driveways that are very steep. They absolutely picked the right spot for their house, but they might not have been thinking about concrete trucks and roof trusses getting up a huge hill. We like to help the owners, along with the builder, to think about those things.” Bianca Buescher, an architectural designer with Paul Werner Architects, who is working on one of the homes, recalls how an early site visit allowed them to make some important changes before breaking ground. “We realized that the neighbors to the south are closer than we’d thought, and there would be some privacy issues. And the views that we wanted to capture are actually to the west. So we decided to reorient the house. Visiting the site is very important.” 54

Creating the Best Plan Werner and his team meet with clients well before building permits are filed or ground is broken, helping future custom homeowners find and refine (and refine and often even further refine) a floor plan that meets their family’s current needs for daily living, anticipated changes, potential resale and energy use, all while considering the family’s budget and potential roadblocks to staying within it. Visualizing how mornings will work in this house and where will people naturally gather leads to more efficient layouts. Understanding which direction the house should face for the fullest morning sunlight, the best evening sunsets or the right amount of privacy prevents costly changes after construction begins. “The last thing we want is for you to walk into your brand-new house on the first day and say, ‘Why is that there?’ ” Werner says. The design phase can vary widely in length, with an average custom home taking four to six months to finalize, depending on how well clients know what they are looking for in a home. “We have people that come in with a binder with awesome pictures, but we also have clients who come in and aren’t exactly sure what they want,” Werner explains. “We can give them different elevations based on different styles that might have the same floor plan, but it could look completely different from the outside.” He adds, “Most people come in with something that they found online, and for the most part, those (online) companies do a reasonably good job. But usually when they are here and start looking at those plans closer, we realize there are changes to be made to fit their needs.” Werner cautions that many of the plans available online are created by and for people in other states, and may not be draft-ready for a home in the Midwest. Plans made for a house in Florida, for example, likely won’t have a furnace or a basement, both critical for living in Kansas. “I like it when clients have photos of what they like but, more specifically, what they like about that photo,” Buescher adds. “They might show me a Tudor house, and I’ll ask them, ‘Do you like the roof pitch, or is it the door that you like?’ And through conversation, we can get there.” The back-and-forth can take many months, but it is critical both the design team and the clients communicate their intentions clearly.

How Many Lawrencians Does It Take To Build a House? The number of hands that contribute to building a home is seemingly infinite. Each home built can employ architects, builders, framers, wood suppliers, concrete mixers, roofers, window installers, electricians, plumbers, painters, masons, insulators, solar panel technicians, security, portable toilet suppliers, interior designers, appliance dealers, hardware suppliers, audiovisual equipment dealers, network engineers and so many more. “If you’re staring at that drawing, I want to make sure what you think you’re seeing is the same thing as what we think you’re seeing,” Werner emphasizes. The Stallwitzes bring unique insight to the process, as Dave is an engineer and Carrie has a degree in architecture. The couple has taken a more technical approach to the design work than most clients might, which has helped them more clearly communicate their vision to their architectural team—though at times it has lengthened the process of fine-tuning final plans. Carrie flinches slightly when recalling the year-plus she and Dave spent working with a fellow KU School of Architecture and Design classmate on designing their home, admitting the process took well over a year to complete. “I was really picky about the roofline,” she says with a smile.

From Demo to Done HGTV may lead viewers to believe that once the land is secured and a design plan that fits the site appropriately has been finalized, demo begins and—a few commercial breaks later—a fully staged home is ready to greet its new owners. In reality, it usually takes a year or more for a new home to go from hole to whole, with many more steps in between than simply fastforwarding the ads. “You’ll have to pick a builder,” Werner says. “We want you to know what this will cost. I don’t want you digging a big hole for a basement and then find out not everyone is in agreement on what this is going to cost.” The Stallwitzes have incorporated some unique ways to not only alleviate some of the costs but use as much of the existing property and materials as possible during the teardown, benefitting the community and the environment. “We invited Habitat for Humanity to pull items out (of the existing houses) for resale,” Carrie says. “They pulled windows out, sinks, faucets, tubs, the hot water heater … it’s a win-win for everybody. You’re diverting waste from the landfill, and they sell it at their retail store.” The couple also donated the existing houses to Lawrence-Douglas County Fire Medical to use for training. She says the fire department can pump theatrical smoke inside to simulate search and rescue,

break windows and/or walls for drills, and practice spraying hoses inside the home. No fires are set, and firefighters are able to safely work through problem-solving in an actual home, not just a model made for training. Carrie encourages area home builders to engage with resources like these, adding that they have also been impressed with the work being done at the KU School of Architecture and Design’s Studio 804 program, a yearlong intensive for students pursuing their master's degree in architecture. The price of a custom-built home varies widely from home to home and is dictated by the cost of the land, the extent of any infrastructure that needs to be built to support the project, the complexity and size of the project, permits and fees, the choices of appliances and cosmetic finishings, and desired tech features, among other considerations. Werner says the “McMansions” of decades past (massive statement homes) are giving way to “right-sizing” (building with intention only what is needed). While square footage and oversized design elements may be scaling back, costs are not.

Carrie and Dave Stallwitz pose in front of their lot in east Lawrence Lawrence fire department using the former house as a training exercise before final demolition Renderings of the future exterior of their new house

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“There’s this bundle of costs you’re going to get hit with right out of the gate, regardless of what your house costs,” he explains. “A water meter for a $100,000 house and a water meter for a $450,000 house cost the same amount of money at the city. Your building permit is based on the size and the cost of your home, but there are several other fees. We just want everyone to know the costs they may incur so we can discuss options, if needed.” Werner says he and others in the industry have explored ways to spread out those costs, but no solution has been found yet.

Breathing New Life New-home construction is not the only way to customize one’s dream home. People who find themselves in need of a different home configuration but do not have the budget for a rebuild or who have enjoyed the same neighborhood for many years and are not quite ready to leave it often opt to remodel their homes to meet their current lifestyle without taking on a new mortgage or sacrificing a beloved location. Werner and Buescher have worked with many families on home remodels. “Adding on to a house may be a better option for people who love their neighbors and love their neighborhood, and don’t necessarily want to start over,” Werner says. While cosmetic-focused renovations such as changing out the tile in a bathroom or installing new kitchen cabinets do not typically require an architect to draft plans, Werner advises consulting with an architect before making any structural changes to a home. An initial consultation is often complimentary and can save homeowners a mountain of headaches—and dollars—in the long run. “We can walk around your house and take a look around,” Werner says. “This wall you may not think is anything, but there may be a heating vent in it that’s the return air for the whole house. The last thing I want you to do is tear down this wall and find there’s a plumbing stack right in the middle of the wall you thought you were going to get rid of.” Buescher adds, “A lot of people can hire a builder, and the builder has great design sense and great vision, but it can be helpful to have architectural input on the general design vision of your house, especially if you think you’re going to be selling it in the future.” An architect familiar with a city’s building regulations can also be extremely helpful when remodeling a home that is registered with the Historic Resources Commission, as the regulations and requirements dictating what can and cannot be done to a historic home may determine if a homeowner’s dream remodel is even possible. Werner advises homeowners to consider the potential cost of temporarily moving out of the home while work is being completed, especially for projects that involve removing exterior walls or are projected to last multiple months. “We try not to destroy too much of your house,” he assures. “You really need to do a benefit analysis. How much are you spending, and what are you going to get out of it? Are you going to live through that while you stay in the house while all these people are coming in and out of your house?” In spite of the tremendous amount of work and unavoidable uncertainties of building and remodeling homes, Werner very clearly loves helping people create their dream homes. “One thing that is cool about doing (custom houses) is that we have a stack of cards and letters from clients about how much they absolutely love their house,” Werner says, noting that these are the buildings where clients actually live before adding with a smile, “You don’t always get that from the office client.” p

HVAC has changed dramatically over the years, but the business of taking care of customers hasn't for these local businesses.

The Heartbeat by Darin White, photos by Steven Hertzog

In the cold of winter while sitting at La Prima Taza, I realize how thankful I am for the modern convenience of heating. African American inventor Alice H. Parker filed a patent for a special type of heating device around 1919, her design a forerunner to modern, central heating and HVAC systems. Systems that included heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) weren't common in residential homes until the 1970s, when they began to be built in. By the 1980s, well over 50 percent of the homes in the U.S. had air-conditioning, and a quarter had central air, according to the article "Explaining the Spread of Residential Air Conditioning, 1955–1980," by Jeff Biddle, in the online bibliographic database Science Direct.

In our comfort-driven society, it is hard to comprehend that people before this time were cold in Lawrence's once-harsh winters and sweating it out in the brutal summers. 58

There are many different options for HVAC and climate-control companies in Lawrence. A number of the larger independent operations have been purchased by big conglomerates in the last several years. Here is a look at two local HVAC companies that provide high-quality residential service to Lawrence: Absolute Air Heating & Air Conditioning, owned by Glenn Kipp, and BlueStem Heating & Cooling, owned by Jason Fisher and wife, Rebecca McAnulla.

Absolute Comfort Glenn Kipp got his start working at a wholesale house for plumbing, electrical and HVAC in Manhattan, Kansas. His interactions selling to professionals gave him a partial understanding of the parts and materials, and an overall understanding of the trade. Kipp's father-in-law at the time offered him a job at his plumbing and HVAC company so he could learn the trade through hands-on experience, which he accepted. He says his father-in-law was an “old-school soul,” and if there was a part that was broken on a computer board, he would take it to the shop and solder it rather than pay to purchase a new one. Hands-on training is how Kipp learned the trade, which was good for him being he learns well through direct experience. He was well-educated and taught how to do things the

Glenn Kipp owner of Absolute Air Heating & Air Conditioning runs new wiring and ducts in a Lawrence remodel

of the House right way the first time, he says. As he was taught, Kipp says he also prefers "to repair if possible, and to do this, it requires getting to the root of what caused the problem.”

As with any business, there are challenges. Besides the expense of the tools and equipment when he got started, “I’d say the biggest challenge would be keeping up with the ever-changing technology so as not to get left behind,” he says. Through Absolute Air, Kipp has found that people will wait a day or two to get the heater fixed, but they want the air-conditioner fixed right away. He says he has really enjoyed HVAC—working with his hands, fixing things and being on the go and interacting with people. He later moved to another company for a number of years in plumbing and HVAC, but eventually went out on his own almost 10 years ago and has been working in the industry for 30 years. Kipp moved his business to Lawrence three years ago while maintaining clients in Manhattan and has been steadily increasing his clientele in Lawrence. His previous employer may take over his client load at some point so he can forgo the hour plus drive west. He is open to growing Absolute Air more in Lawrence but wants to make sure whomever he hires will treat clients well and take care of them like he would. He is interested investing long term in an employee who would

potentially take over the company when he retires.

“I’m looking for not just an employee who is knowledgeable but someone with passion for what they do and who will treat my customers the way I do," Kipp explains. "All of my customers are treated with respect and not as a number, like some bigger companies do.” Currently, Absolute Air's main source of advertising is by Fabulux Media, which runs its website, and Google Ads. "My online presence also helps to get referrals and mentions. Such as the 'Live Love Local Lawrence' Facebook page, which has been a huge blessing." He says he's not only received numerous referrals from that page but now has lifelong customers from it, as well. Word of mouth has been Kipp's most common source of advertising. "When you take good care of people, they will tell their friends and neighbors. As a smaller business, I can have a more personalized approach to my service that many bigger businesses just can’t provide. For me, it’s all about the customer experience and providing them quality service.” Besides Absolute Air working directly with home owners, he is grateful to have a number of property-management companies with whom he works, as well. And between those patrons and real estate companies, he stays quite busy. Kipp holds a mechanical license and also offers water heater replacement. 59

Jason Fisher owner of Bluestem Heating and Cooling checking the dual capacitor on the York AC condenser getting it ready for the cooling season Group photo of Bluestem Heating & Cooling pictured left to right: Joey Downing, Debbie Knudsen, Jason Fisher, Rebecca McAnulla, Jerry Ward Jason Fisher checking the dual capacitor on the York AC condenser getting it ready for the cooling season

But, “I usually tend to refer them to a great plumber, John Durino [with Durino Plumbing], who I know will take good care of them.” He has also worked with light commercial clients, but as a small, one-man operation, he's found that he is better-suited to residential work and will leave the commercial work to the larger commercial operations. “Anyone considering the HVAC trade: Be prepared to work hard, but try and enjoy what you’re doing. It’s a satisfying career, and you will get out of it what you put into it. Be eager to learn and listen to anyone who can help you grow your knowledge. Some technical training would be very helpful, but if a person is willing to work hard and learn on the job, schooling isn’t always the only way,” Kipp explains.

Supporting the Family Jason Fisher, with Bluestem Heating & Cooling, has been working in HVAC around Lawrence for 25 years, many of those as a service manager for another local company. He first got into the HVAC business when his wife, Rebecca McAnulla, and he were first starting a family. “I knew I needed a career that could support our family long term," he says. "I had always worked with my hands, and I liked figuring out how things work. HVAC felt like something I could really learn and grow into. Once I started, it stuck.” 60

While Fisher has been working in the industry for a long time, the company is just celebrating its one-year anniversary. “Bluestem started during a time when my wife, Rebecca, and I were both at a crossroads. We spent many evenings talking things through as a family, brainstorming names and thinking about what kind of company we wanted to build. We didn’t want something flashy. We wanted something local, dependable and built the right way." He says the name Bluestem comes from their Kansas roots. As lifelong Kansans, the couple wanted the business to reflect that sense of home and stability. They are both fully involved in the day-to-day of the business, from communication to operations. "It’s truly something we’re building together with the help of our family and team behind us," Fisher explains. "We didn’t start Bluestem to be the biggest company in the area. We started it to be the one people feel comfortable calling." Bluestem offers repairs for heating and cooling, entire system replacements, indoor air-quality services and ongoing maintenance plans with the goal of helping homeowners stay comfortable through every season. The vast majority of people don't think about HVAC until it stops working, as it is considered as part of a functioning home that, if maintained and working properly, should run quietly in the background. Fisher says the company's goal is to make comfort feel simple.

Glenn Kipp, Absolute Air Heating & Air Conditioning

Bluestem's clientele includes residential and light commercial companies, with an eye toward providing service to homeowners, small businesses and families who want a local team they can trust. One of the most important elements in their company: “Trust matters more than anything. People are inviting you into their home, and that’s personal. Being honest, explaining things clearly and standing behind your work goes a long way. If you treat people right, they remember that,” Fisher explains. He understands that HVAC work can be very challenging, working in extreme temperatures with long hours taking care of customers who prefer the work is done quickly. “What I enjoy is being able to fix the problem and just know that I did my small part to make someone's day just a little bit better,” he says. Growth is something Bluestem is working toward. “We want to grow in a way that we can still provide the excellent customer service that has made Bluestem trusted in so many homes already," Fisher says. "We want to keep the personal touch and family feel for our Bluestem team and our customers. Keeping a good reputation and a great customer experience is more important to us than growing fast.” Since Fisher has worked in Douglas County a long time and has met a lot of great people through his work, much of Bluestem's work comes from referrals and repeat customers. “When someone has a good experience, they usually pass your name along, and that means a lot to us,” he says. Fisher believes Lawrence is fortunate to have The Dwayne Peaslee Technical Training Center (Peaslee Tech) in town, a good starting point for those interested in getting into the trade of HVAC. “Beyond that, it’s about showing up, listening and caring about doing the job right. You don’t have to know everything on Day 1. You just have to be willing to learn.” The trades are as important as ever, and there is a huge demand for new laborers and those who enjoy working with their hands, solving problems and taking care of individuals. HVAC is one of those trades that provides a specialized service people need and will continue to require for many years to come. Through technology and ingenuity, who knows where it will lead next.

p

Dynelle and Rodney Kessler, owners of Kessler Contractors

Alan Rector, owner of A-Team Custom Construction

Foundations

A history of quality work and long-term relationships have made these general contracting companies staples in the local home repair and remodeling industry. by Emily Mulligan, photos by Steven Hertzog

Some definitions of “general” are easy to picture—the military rank, for example, or an old-fashioned general store. But when that word is put in front of “contractor,” the definition can be a little harder to pin down. Or at least, in the construction industry, it can be harder to come to a consensus about what exactly a general contractor is. In Lawrence and Douglas County, many general contractors operate in varying forms. Construction Specialties, Kessler Contractors and A-Team Custom Construction have been on the scene long enough to carve out their own niches and define general contracting for themselves, successfully carrying out their own brands as general contractors.

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Nick Walters & Mike Warner, co-owners of Construction Specialties

of Trust Focus on Remodeling, Additions

Construction Specialties, co-owned by Mike Warner and Nick Walters, has been in the mostly residential construction business since 2015, blending the traditional supervisory role of a general contractor with the hands-on construction trades. The company’s own staff does about 40 percent of the physical construction at the work site while simultaneously coordinating and overseeing subcontractors who perform the licensed skilled trades, such as plumbing and electrical.

“COVID wasn’t an economic hardship for us on the money side—it was hard on the getting-through-it side,” Walters adds. The company had so much home-improvement business that it could hardly keep up with demand; the lead time for projects went from about six months to 12 to 14 months.

“We as the general contractor are thinking about the long-term overall vision of the project,” Warner says. “Our expertise is really about planning and communicating with the customers.”

Warner says that 2025 was not the best year for gaining new customers, with economic uncertainty and increasing interest rates. With the long project lead time, though, they knew they’d have enough upcoming work to sustain 2026. They have made the conscious decision to stay the size they are, even when it has meant turning down potential work.

The company has 16 full-time employees, including office staff and a full design team. Jobs are booking more than 12 months ahead for 2026, and most of those projects this year are building additions instead of smaller-scale things like kitchen or bathroom remodels—though they will continue to do that work, as well.

“The need for our business is insane. We have way more business than there are people to do it. 2026 will be mostly additions, which are larger jobs, so we have less customers total. It’s a lot riskier— that’s the first time it’s been this much of our business,” he explains.

Construction Specialties began in a three-car garage, founded by Warner and his dad, with four or five employees. Now, they own their own building and a fleet of vehicles. Business was great before 2020, but the COVID pandemic made it “take off like a rocket ship,” Warner says, as people were stuck at home and constantly noticing problems and remodeling potential.

The company is reinvesting in its employees to keep the longevity record it already has. No one has left the company for three years running, Walters says. Employees have health insurance and 401(k) plans, and opportunities for promotion to supervisory positions. “A lot of people are focusing on good construction. We do good construction but are focusing on people and relationships,” Warner says. 63

Finished luxury kitchen and bathroom by Construction Specialties

Carpenters Chad and Tyler from A-Team Construction working on the composite handrail components of the composite deck

Professional Maintenance and Repair As anyone who has ever owned a home or a building can attest, anything can go wrong at any given moment. From deferred maintenance to weather disasters to just, “Oops, it broke,” someone needs to stay on top of problems and prevent the preventable. Kessler Contractors, owned by husband and wife Rodney and Dynelle Kessler, serves residential and commercial maintenance needs throughout Douglas County and beyond. “Fixing stuff is more of an art than just replacing things,” Rodney explains. “I tell people, ‘Let me spend your money the way you want it spent.’ No one ever has gotten rid of us once they hire us.” Peace of mind for the customer is knowing they can contact the Kesslers any day of the week with any type of problem. “We have to have someone readily available to fix that hot water tank or 64

leaky sink. We’ll do anything from a full remodel to major cleanup projects,” Rodney adds. Once customers have called them for an urgent matter, and Kessler Contractors has earned their trust through reliability and quality work, often they will hire Kessler for larger-scale jobs, as well. Three other full-time staff in addition to the Kesslers comprise the company. Dynelle manages the office, while Rodney responds to calls and manages the field. He deploys a full roster of subcontractors, as well, for specialties like cabinetry and electrical work. Their commercial customers include local banks that have multiple branches, a real estate company and LMH Health for its many buildings around town. Dynelle says business is about 50/50 between residential and commercial work. The two Kesslers launched the company in 2018, after Rodney took the leap from being a commercial maintenance employee, and the doctor’s office Dynell worked in expressed interest in having him do all their mainte-

nance work. With his military background, Rodney has a flair for planning and organizing construction, as well as experience sticking to a budget. They hired their first additional full-time employee during COVID, when, as Rodney says, “everybody was at home wanting stuff fixed.” Word of mouth has continued to spread about Kessler's quality work, backed by solid logic. Business is good. “We are efficient, our turnaround time is quick, and we do a better job,” Rodney says. “We’ve built these relationships with people, and they’re happy to have us do it.” Kessler often gains a customer when something has first broken or gone wrong—sometimes coming on board in the middle of another company’s construction project that either is heading over budget or isn’t going well. Either way, Rodney sees himself as a problem-solver. “Contracting is an open, broad field. We’re not a specialist in everything, but we have people who are. General contractors can make it happen,” he says. 65

Rodney Kessler working with his crew on a project inside LMH

Rebuilding the Inside and Outside You never know when the small jobs can lead to big ones. Sometimes, it can work the other way, too. The through line is that customers won’t hire you again unless the first job is done well. Alan Rector, of A-Team Custom Construction, has high standards for all of the company’s projects. He wants it to be great work, not just “good enough.” Most of A-Team’s work is residential, both interior and exterior projects. Some projects are smaller work like replacing one window or painting a room, but Rector and crew do larger remodeling projects, as well. As often as not, the smaller projects become larger scope when the customer sees the results. “I love talking to people and meeting people,” Rector says. “I grew up here. Being able to see people happy with our work is the gratification we get.” A-Team employs 17 full-time workers, and slightly less than half the work involves remodeling kitchens, baths and basements. That is balanced out by about an equal number of exterior jobs, such as replacing exterior siding and building decks. The remainder are things like painting, refinishing cabinets and repairing wood rot. Rector started the company in 2009 after he kept picking up side jobs while working for a new-home builder. At first, it was he and one other person, plus any friends who had time, tackling projects thrown their way. They stayed busy in the 2010s, and Rector hired consultants to help him see how to grow the business efficiently—to help break him of his micromanaging tendencies. Establishing a hierarchy of trusted job site supervisors allowed him to focus on bidding, sales and other decision-making for the company. A-Team uses subcontractors for things like roofing and mechanicals, and has cultivated those relationships through the years. Now, the company's employees have profit sharing, 401(k) plans, health insurance and bonuses, and Rector says the core of employees has been with the company for more than five years, some of them 10. “We want a team of forward-thinking problem-solvers, not just people nailing things,” he says. With a significant skill gap in the construction labor force since both the 2008 recession and the COVID pandemic, Rector says recruiting new laborers can be challenging. Having benefits and being willing to train them on the job and help them develop their skills has proven to be key. Work is steady, though 2025 was a bit of a dip from 2024, he says. The company has a physical showroom in south Lawrence that opened a couple of years ago so customers can come for meetings and to preview and select materials. That makes the overhead higher, but Rector says seeing the space often helps clients feel more comfortable with A-Team for larger projects. He is looking to the future and is considering expanding A-Team’s reach to potentially include Olathe or Topeka, or other areas beyond the county lines. He and his team are pursuing sales strategies to make sure they reconnect with previous customers, particularly those who did things such as add a home office during COVID, to see what else they might want to remodel or repair.p 66

THE VALOR AWARDS photos by Cinder and Ivory

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BLACK HISTORY, A KANSAS LEGACY photos by Jeff Burkhead

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FREEDY JOHNSON @ 8TH STREET TAP HOUSE photos by Hertzogs

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THE CHAMBER ANNUAL DINNER photos by Carter Gaskins

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LAC - SOUPER BOWL photos provided by LAC

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2026 LAWRENCE HOME BUILDERS ASSOCIATION ANNUAL HOME SHOWS photos by Steven Hertzog

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THE CHAMBER - RIBBON CUTTINGS photos from the Chamber

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NEWS [ MAKERS] & PEOPLE ON THE MOVE Mid America Bank Pledges $100,000 Gift to Support Peaslee Promise Campaign, Designated to Cindy Yulich Endowment Fund

Mid America Bank has pledged a $100,000 gift in support of the Peaslee Promise Campaign, a $10 million endowment initiative led by the Dwayne Peaslee Technical Training Center (Peaslee Tech) to expand access to debt-free career and technical education for Douglas County residents. The gift is designated to the Cindy Yulich Endowment Fund, a named fund within the Peaslee Promise Endowment Fund. Launched in May 2025, the Peaslee Promise Campaign seeks to establish a permanent endowment to provide tuition support for high school juniors and seniors from 12 partner school districts, as well as adult learners from low-income households. The endowment, managed by the Douglas County Community Foundation, will ensure long-term affordability for students while strengthening Peaslee Tech’s financial sustainability. “The Peaslee Promise offers a tremendous opportunity to Douglas County residents to build great careers without incurring debt,” said Dave Hill, CEO of Mid America Bank. “We’re just really proud to be a small part of this great goal.” Mid America Bank chose to designate its gift to the Cindy Yulich Endowment Fund in recognition of Yulich’s decades-long impact on the banking industry and her extraordinary service to the Lawrence and Douglas County community.

Visiting Nurses Association names Melinda Ward as the new CEO.

Melinda Ward returned to VNA in the role of Chief Executive Officer. Melinda previously served as VNA’s Director of Operational Excellence from June 2022 to December 2023. She has over 15 years of leadership experience across Home Health, Hospice, and private duty. Since Melinda started, she and the rest of the VNA team have been busy working on the necessary changes to navigate VNA through these challenging times toward a positive, sustainable future.

The Bert Nash Community Mental Health Center is pleased to announce the official appointment of Dr. Kirsten Watkins as Chief Executive Officer (CEO).

Dr. Watkins joined BNC in August 2021 and has more than 20 years of experience in behavioral health care. As a licensed clinical psychologist, she has dedicated her career to supporting individuals and families navigating complex behavioral health challenges. Dr. Watkins has served as Interim CEO for the past eight months while continuing in her role as Clinical Director, guiding the community mental health center with steady and thoughtful leadership during a period of transition. Her appointment as CEO reflects the Board’s confidence in her vision and leadership and ensures continued stability as BNC advances its commitment to accessible, compassionate, and highquality behavioral health care for individuals and families across Douglas County. "We are extremely excited to be able to plan for the long-term future of Bert Nash with Dr. Watkins as CEO. In her eight months as interim CEO she demonstrated the ability to lead with determination and strength despite any outside obstacles that were thrown in her way,” said Matthew Herbert, Chair of the BNC Board of Directors. “As a board we feel very confident that we have found the right person for the job." Founded in 1950, BNC has been led by just three CEOs over its 75-year history. Dr. Watkins now becomes the organization’s fourth CEO. 80

How well do you know Douglas Co? Where is this public mural? And what local artist created it? Be the first to correctly guess the answers to the questions above!! Winner receives a $50 gift card to 23rd Street Brewery. facebook.com/lawrencebusinessmagazine

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Advertise in the Lawrence Business Magazine! OUR MISSION: Make a postive impact. From the stories we tell to the FOUNDATION AWARDS we host, we are the only local magazine advocating for the people and businesses making a positive impact on Lawrence & Douglas County. All of our advertisers have a stake in the befo looking to source your local economy - we ask you to first consider them before needs outside of the community. We believe in order to have a strong community you must be supported by businesses and people with a stake in that community. “Lawrence Business Magazine is the authentic resource for diverse perspectives and relevant topics mixed in with community entertainment. We are all fortunate to have a professional publication that represents the unique qualities of Lawrence and Douglas County.”  Beth Easter, Market President - Lawrence & Topeka, INTRUST Bank

“There is a new gold standard for articulate, informative, unbiased and entertaining periodicals, and its name is the Lawrence Business Magazine. Each diverse issue brings long anticipated clarity to the people of Lawrence and Douglas County. For those of us looking for a better understanding of our past, our present and where we will be in the future, The LBM is mandatory reading.”  Derek Kwan, Executive Director, YOUR Lied Center “The Chamber has been a big fan of the Lawrence Business Magazine since its inception 13 years ago. Businesses throughout Lawrence and Douglas County share their stories with consumers through meaningful and entertaining articles. The photography shows the diversity and vibrancy we are all so proud of in Lawrence. The magazine’s mission of “Making a Positive Impact” reflects the vitality of our community.”  Bonnie Lowe, President/CEO, The Chamber of Lawrence

“Whenever Peaslee Tech is mentioned in the Lawrence Business Magazine, and anytime we are guests on The Lawrence Business Magazine Radio Show, we get so much positive feedback from their readers and listeners. They boost the awareness we need to help create careers for those in the trade industry and provide businesses with qualified workers.”  Dr. Kevin Kelley, Chief Executive Officer, Peaslee Tech “Express Professionals started advertising in the Lawrence Business Magazine over ten years ago. This was one of the best advertising moves we have made. It is continuous exposure to all our clients and potential clients we need to get in front of. The team at LBM is top notch to work with. Thanks LBM for being a great asset to the Lawrence community!”  Kate Chinn, Owner, Express Employment Professionals Lorem Ipsum

“The Lawrence Business Magazine is not only a quality publication, Steve and Ann truly support our business & endeavors. And with the FOUNDATION AWARDS – they do a terrific job. The Lawrence Business Magazine FOUNDATION AWARDS make businesses realize the importance of their own growth in our community.”  Kathy Pine, Owner, Pine Landscape Center “It is a great place to showcase Emprise Bank and support local businesses. At the Lawrence Business Magazine, they go the extra mile.”  Cynthia Yulich, Community Bank President, Emprise Bank

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