Josh Kubik, CEO of Baytown Ace Industrial Services, believes an operation that functions as a team will experience more success than an operation that is dependent on one individual. BIC Magazine recently visited with Kubik to learn more about Baytown Ace Industrial Services’ name change to better reflect the varied services it offers and its recent increase in employee levels.
Q: What led to your position at Baytown Ace Industrial Services?
A: I have the honor of representing the fourth generation to lead Baytown Ace Industrial Services. My dad and mom took the company further than anyone ever imagined. I started at an early age sweeping the floors of the shop. From there, I spent time learning to operate virtually every machine in our shop. After graduating from high school, I became a full-time employee and have been here ever since. Because of my on-the-job training and the example of my mom and dad, I am able to relate to challenges employees may have. Due to my hands-on approach, as well as being mindful I lead a company that has been associated with my family for more than 50 years, I remain driven to help the company be the best it can possibly be.
Q: What is the biggest news in your company right now?
A: We recently changed our name to better reflect the varied services we offer our customer base. We are no longer simply a machine shop but rather a full-service, one-stop option for industrial customers. We are able to offer a full spectrum of services necessary to complete the required job — all in one location.
We are also excited about our new sister company, Triumph Industrial Supply, which will offer a new industrial supply source to the industry.
Because of our continued growth, our employee levels have increased to the point that new, governmental mandates apply to us in regard to benefit packages, health insurance changes and a myriad of other mandates. We realize these are the results of company growth and success.
Q: Are you looking to grow in new markets or expand in current ones?
A: We are constantly looking to grow in new markets and expand in existing ones. We have a full-time staff of four outside salesmen who spend their days not only servicing current customers but also searching for new opportunities. We are blessed to be located along the Houston Ship Channel where the petrochemical industry is continuing to expand and grow. We believe we have only begun to scratch the surface in what we have to offer.
Q: What is your best management tactic?
A: I have found it is not necessary for me to be the best and most knowledgeable in all areas. What is necessary is to be surrounded by a team made up of such people. Our management team is really what makes us among the top service centers in our area. Members of this team have very strong points in their particular field and, collectively, we make an outstanding team. Our operation is not dependent on one individual but rather a team that functions as one.
Q: How do you maintain a good work/home life balance?
A: If you allow it, work can certainly dominate your entire life. It helps to have a life partner with the same life goals, commitment to one’s faith and someone who is there to help you stay on track. I have to remind myself from time to time that life is much more than Baytown Ace Industrial Services. I have been blessed with a wonderful wife and two beautiful children. I also have the honor and privilege of working alongside my mom, dad and sister; being able to interact with them every day keeps me grounded. When at work, I must stay focused but it is just as important to be focused when I am home with my family.
For more information, visit www.aceindustrial.com or call (281) 427-9661.
