In this episode of Let’s Talk Elevators, Morgan Jones sits down with Travis Hall from Alliance Elevator Solutions. Travis brings nearly two decades of manufacturing and industry experience to the table, sharing a candid look at what it takes to build a successful career and company in vertical transportation.

This episode cuts through the noise. Travis shares his origin story, from value engineering parts to launching Alliance with a bold pitch to his CEO. The conversation shifts quickly into the realities of the trade today. They discuss why a four-year degree doesn't guarantee success, and why a relentless drive to solve problems beats academic credentials every time.

Topics covered in this episode:

• The School of Hard Knocks: Why field experience, work ethic, and a problem-solving mindset trump traditional education in the elevator industry.

• Strategic Technology Adoption: How AI is shifting the business side of the trade. AI won't replace people, but professionals who know how to use it will replace those who don't.

• Training Realities: The balance between new 3D/software learning concepts and the irreplaceable value of hands-on training. (As Travis puts it, "There's nothing like sailing a damn boat.")

• The Supplier's Role: Why suppliers and manufacturers must act as technical educators for independent contractors, rather than just taking orders.

• Recruiting from the Trades: Practical advice on pulling talent from other blue-collar sectors by showing them the earning potential, flexibility, and stability of the elevator trade.

• Understanding True Passion: Why passion requires sacrifice, and why you shouldn't claim to have it unless you are willing to put in the work.

Whether you are a field mechanic turning a wrench, a project manager fighting tight schedules, or an independent contractor trying to scale, Travis delivers grounded, practical advice on how to navigate the current landscape of the industry.