The Trade Life by Projekt Network is a show about the real work, real pressure, and real satisfaction of building a career in the skilled trades. Host Ian MacFayden sits down with tradespeople, business owners, apprentices, and industry voices to unpack the stories, decisions, and lessons that shape life on the tools and in the office.
From starting out as an apprentice, to running your first crew, to pricing jobs, managing clients, navigating burnout, hiring talent, and scaling a business — this show goes beyond surface-level advice and gets into the realities of the trade world as it actually is.
If you’re in the trades, hiring trades, or building something of your own, The Trade Life gives you the conversations and perspectives that help you level up.
A Projekt Network Original.
The Trade Life by Projekt Network is a show about the real work, real pressure, and real satisfaction of building a career in the skilled trades. Host Ian MacFayden sits down with tradespeople, business owners, apprentices, and industry voices to unpack the stories, decisions, and lessons that shape life on the tools and in the office.
From starting out as an apprentice, to running your first crew, to pricing jobs, managing clients, navigating burnout, hiring talent, and scaling a business — this show goes beyond surface-level advice and gets into the realities of the trade world as it actually is.
If you’re in the trades, hiring trades, or building something of your own, The Trade Life gives you the conversations and perspectives that help you level up.
A Projekt Network Original.
Continue the conversation in the dedicated episode forum on Projekt Network at:
https://projektnetwork.com/views/forum
Summary
In this episode of The Trade Life, Ian MacFayden and Aaron Miller share their journey in the trades, discussing the challenges and successes of building Hummingbird Hill Homes and launching Project Network. They emphasize the importance of open conversations in the industry, the value of mentorship, and the need for a supportive community for tradespeople. The episode covers their personal backgrounds, early experiences, and the lessons learned along the way, highlighting the realities of entrepreneurship in the construction sector. In this conversation, Aaron and Ian discuss their journey in the construction industry, focusing on the challenges and lessons learned while building their company. They explore the importance of identifying differential advantages, establishing roles, navigating growth challenges, and the impact of COVID-19 on their business. The conversation also delves into hiring practices, financial management, and the significance of building a strong company culture. They share insights on overcoming legal hurdles and the pitfalls of offsite construction, emphasizing the need for effective contracts and the importance of perseverance during tough times. In this conversation, Aaron and Ian discuss their journey through the challenges of running a construction business, the importance of learning from difficult experiences, and the critical role of standard operating procedures. They emphasize the need for a strong team culture and the integration of technology in project management. The discussion also covers their expansion into the Muskoka region and the launch of Project Network, a platform aimed at connecting skilled tradespeople and fostering community within the industry. They highlight the growing opportunities in the skilled trades and the importance of proactive approaches to business.