“I started to see quite early on a real huge opportunity in this industry. Because there were a lot of makers, you know, small guys, maybe one or two man operations, maybe even grads type builders, that just finishing was not part of their MO and they needed to have somebody a good finishing partner, so that they could provide a finished product. “ -Jim Carrigan Welcome to a brand-new episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast. Today, your host Steve Larosiliere is joined by Jim Carrigan from JECO Wood Finishing. A visionary who has carved a niche for himself in the wood finishing industry. Jim's journey from painting equipment in his early years to establishing a thriving finishing shop highlights not just his personal growth but also the evolving landscape of wood finishing. Listen now and get the whole story! “I started slow growing in my first shop, I think there were at most four of us working in it. Today, the shop that I have now has 15 staff, and two shifts.” -Jim Carrigan From Humble Beginnings to Industry Innovator: Jim Carrigan’s foray into the finishing world began in an unconventional manner—painting heavy equipment during the gold rush era. This early experience, working alongside his father, laid the foundation for Jim's expertise with a spray gun, a skill that would become the cornerstone of his career. Despite starting in the painting industry, Jim's affinity for wood and the satisfaction derived from working with it led him down the path of wood finishing. This journey wasn't just about mastering a craft; it was about identifying and nurturing a passion that resonated deeply with him. The Evolution of Jeco Finishing: Jeco Finishing's inception in 203 marked a significant milestone in Jim's career. His decision to focus exclusively on shop work was driven by a desire to hone his skills in a niche market. This specialisation wasn't just a business decision; it was a commitment to excellence, a promise to bring out the best in every piece of wood that passed through his shop. The relationships Jim established with carpenters, cabinet makers, and builders were instrumental in the growth of Jeco Finishing. These partnerships were built on trust and a shared understanding of the importance of a quality finish. For many of Jim's clients, a project's success hinged on its final appearance, a testament to the critical role finishing plays in the woodworking industry. Navigating Growth and Embracing Change: Jeco Finishing's journey from a one-man operation to a team of 15 staff members working in shifts is a story of calculated growth and adaptation. Jim's initial lack of a clear vision evolved into a strategic approach to business expansion, balancing the risks of rapid growth with the opportunities it presented. This cautious yet ambitious strategy has allowed Jeco Finishing to establish itself as a leader in the industry, setting standards for quality and innovation. The Future of Finishing: Education, Automation, and Expansion: Looking ahead, Jim sees significant potential for the finishing industry, particularly in the shift towards pre-finishing. This approach not only streamlines the construction process but also opens new avenues for small makers to compete in a broader market. Jim's plans for Jeco Finishing include exploring automation to enhance efficiency without compromising the artisanal quality that defines their work. “The best thing that I can think about is do you remember when Steve Jobs would do his, like yearly talks with his, you know, black turtleneck and he'd show his innovation, but the people in the audience were his actual end users' customers.” -Steve Larosiliere Contact him through: Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/jecofinishing/ Website: https://www.jecofinishing.com/