In 1971, Dave McLaren set out to build more than just an HVAC company. He built a reputation. Known throughout Park Forest as a contractor who was honest, dependable, and hands-on, Dave handled service calls while his wife, Willa, managed the office. As word of their integrity spread, so did their reach. And as the business grew, their son Gary grew with it.

Jordan Funchess launched Funchess Bookkeeping with a clear goal: to serve small business owners and bring peace of mind through dependable financial support. After feeling undervalued in past jobs, he saw bookkeeping as a way to make a difference while building something meaningful for his family. With a growing need in the community, it became the perfect opportunity to combine service with sustainability.

For Darren Cappa, starting Cappa Electric was never about chasing a business opportunity. It started with helping friends and family who needed electrical work. Over time, he realized how much he enjoyed solving their problems and making things work again. With over 15 years in the trade and a desire to build something with his hands, Darren turned that passion into a company of his own.

Todd Szada didn’t set out to start an environmental abatement company. While running a fire and water restoration business, he constantly found himself relying on outside vendors for asbestos and lead abatement. The delays and lack of reliability weren’t just frustrating—they were costly. One misstep even led to a state fine for unknowingly removing asbestos-containing material. Rather than let that setback define the business, Todd and his team got certified themselves. Umbrella Environmental was born from that challenge, allowing them to take control, move faster, and deliver better results.

For Nate Huse, welding wasn’t just a skill. It was a way forward. After going to college to study the trade, he knew he eventually wanted to own his own business. It took time, patience, and the right moment, but that dream became a reality with NH Mobile Welding. “I’ve wanted to own my own company but haven’t had the opportunity until recent years,” Nate shares. Now, he’s doing what he loves and building something that’s his.

Jessica Jenkins didn’t set out to become a roofer — but years of watching homeowners struggle to find dependable contractors lit a fire that couldn’t be ignored. With a background in real estate and construction, she saw the same story play out again and again: people frustrated, overcharged, or left hanging by unreliable crews. She started Source 1 Roofing with one goal in mind — to bring trust, reliability, and craftsmanship back into the roofing industry.