By Teddy Durgin

No matter the industry, whether it is transportation, technology or building service contracting, being able to recognize the latest trends and pinpoint what lies ahead is crucial to success. One industry professional who has proven adept at staying ahead of the curve is Chase Carlson, president of Pioneer Building Services. His boutique building service contractor is based out of Potomac, Md., and serves the intensely competitive Washington, D.C., metro area.

When asked what he identifies as the biggest industry trend of the moment, Carlson was quick to answer, "Consolidation! The combination of low interest rates, growth in the economy and owners that are simply tired of recovering from the recession or burnt out in the industry has led to an increase in mergers and acquisitions, both locally and nationally. While Pioneer’s growth over the past 25 years has been purely organic, we cautiously watch the market and the players around us to seize the opportunities that align with our long-term strategy."

Not all trends are positive ones, of course. Perhaps the biggest potential pitfall to watch out for currently is economic volatility. "We are in uncharted territory," Carlson cautioned, "both with the economy as well as domestic and foreign politics. Consumer confidence is on the rise. However it is conditional upon certain expectations. Our society demands instant gratifications. When expectations aren’t met, we react. History repeats itself and while our industry tends to weather economic volatility far better than other industries, it’s important to note that the combination of economic turmoil mixed with political or social unrest ― again, domestic or foreign ― has the potential to create unforeseen challenges for businesses to navigate."

Carlson says the best way to keep up with the latest trends and stand out in the marketplace is to hire the best people. "Our mission is to empower our team to serve," he stated. "Employees that are empowered in their position not only own the tasks and responsibilities you give them, but also their productivity is insurmountable. Most importantly, they are happier. When you have a team operating with this type of culture, it is contagious and thriving."

Both Pioneer employees and BSCAI members have traditionally been forward-thinking individuals. With 2017 drawing to a close and a new year fast approaching, increased focus on employee recruitment and retention will be one of the keys for continued success in the industry. "This industry is about one thing and one thing only: people," Carlson concluded. "If companies aren’t focused on creating a fresh and vibrant culture that is attractive for new talent and retaining existing talent, then your business can quickly fall into life support. If you have the right people on the team and you get them in the right seat as fast as you can, then your challenges become opportunities, your strategy gets executed and your vision for the future is limitless."