TOP CHALLENGES IN THE MONTHS AHEAD
- Labor Shortages & Workforce Issues
- Skilled labor shortages continue, with an aging workforce and fewer younger workers entering the trades.
- Rising labor costs across numerous markets, as companies compete for the same pool of skilled workers.
- Retaining talent within these competitive job markets is key.
- Supply Chain Disruptions & Material Costs
- Fluctuations in material availability, pricing, and uncertainty due to geopolitical tensions, inflation, and production slowdowns.
- Increased lead times on essential materials like lumber, steel, and semiconductors for electrical work.
- Contractors are struggling to balance budgets with volatile costs for materials and labor.
- Technology Adoption & Cybersecurity Risks
- The push for digital transformation, including project management software and AI-driven tools.
- Training staff to effectively use new technologies.
ABLEMKR Tip: Finding skilled workers is a full time effort, and ABLEMKR’s mix of innovation and tech forward thinking is streamlining how we can solve some of the challenges identified above. Try us- you’ll see the difference.
Where is ABLEMKR Seeing Growth?
Oil & Gas Projects continue to deliver new opportunities in Texas, with numerous customers expanding projects, requiring certified skilled professionals with ranging levels of experience. Mining Service industries continue to see strong growth, with hiring for mechanical and electrical pros in Arizona and adjacent markets. Semiconductor manufacturing projects are driving a strong need for highly skilled electrical and other construction professionals. Restoration companies in California and other storm hit locations continue to see fluctuating demand for the unique skills required in water and fire restoration.
ABLEMKR TEAM MEMBER PROFILE: Ray Colbeck
If you’ve worked with ABLEMKR, either as a customer or a worker, chances are you may have heard of Ray Colbeck, one of our Ops team members. Check out his interview below!
What did you do before ABLEMKR?
Interestingly, my most recent venture was running my own farm business. We had over 300 chickens, 15 to 20 turkeys, ducks, horses, cattle, and even some geese. Before that, I spent nine years in IT, but when COVID hit, I decided to pivot into farming. I was drawn to the challenge of automating farming processes, with the goal of turning our solutions into a scalable product.
What was your IT experience like?
I started out in a data center, learning the ins and outs of racking and stacking equipment—back when CAT5 was standard—working with coax and fiber as well. From there, I moved into a Network Operations Center (NOC), supporting major clients like Netflix and Expedia. Later, I became a leader at a dental practice management company, where I built and led the data department, growing the team from just myself to a full-fledged group of 10 to 15 people, while developing the company’s data platform.
What attracted you to ABLEMKR?
The leadership. Patrick and Chris are vision-driven leaders who not only have a clear direction but also genuinely care about their people and how we get there. I immediately saw the potential—this company is just scratching the surface, and I can see where we’ll be in the next two to three years. I want ABLEMKR to be my last career move. The construction industry is massive, resilient, and full of opportunities, which makes this the perfect place to be.
Was there a defining moment when you knew ABLEMKR was the right fit?
That’s a tough one, but I’d say it was when I fully grasped the unique value of what we offer. At a social mixer, I was speaking with a potential customer about our platform’s flexibility in setting rates and the transparency it provides. When I saw their eyes light up, I knew we had something special—something the industry hadn’t seen before. That was my “aha” moment.
Have you taken on any unexpected opportunities since joining?
Absolutely. In a short time, I transitioned from Recruiting into Account Management, and I wouldn’t be surprised if my role evolves again. The flexibility here is unlike anything I’ve experienced. At ABLEMKR, you have the freedom to take initiative, but with that comes accountability—holding yourself to high standards, maintaining integrity, and having the discipline to thrive in a fast-growing company.
What advice would you give to someone considering joining ABLEMKR?
If you come in expecting a simple nine-to-five job, this might not be the place for you. We’re a fast-growing company, supporting customers across multiple time zones, which means flexibility and adaptability are key. If you’re driven, eager to grow, and ready to take ownership of your work, you’ll thrive here.
What’s your favorite part of working at ABLEMKR?
The challenge. There’s limitless potential to disrupt this market. Every day, the effort we put in moves us forward—helping us grow as individuals, as a team, and as a company. The best part? We’re carving our own path, shaping the future of the industry on our own terms.
