Perseverence Always Pays Off

Armed with a $10,000 loan and a determination to carve out his niche, Steven Russell Brown, a master plumber and gas fitter, founded Wildman Plumbing 17 years ago. From humble beginnings with just a single truck, Brown and Wildman Plumbing have managed to persevere through economic downturns and a competitive marketplace, evolving from that single truck and sole employee into a brand new building and a full team with a bright future.

Building Momentum

 Through perseverance and a willingness to adapt, Wildman Plumbing steadily gained traction. In the beginning, Brown was also working with the fire department, balancing his duties between firefighting and plumbing. He decided to take the leap and commit fully to Wildman Plumbing in 2014.

 With Springfield as his new base, Steven began to assemble a team, many of whom are still at Wildman Plumbing, nurturing a core group of employees who shared his vision. From a modest start in leased spaces, Wildman Plumbing flourished, but Brown says he will always opt for quality over quantity. “The hope is to do what we do and stay in our lane,” said Brown. “We have a really good niche and want to continue to nurture our relationships and be a team with each other and with our clients.”

 Brown credits his association with the Home Builders Association (HBA) with making a real difference in the trajectory of Wildman Plumbing. “They really helped us get in front of and meet licensed and professional builders, which really helped spark our growth,” said Brown.

“It was such an important step for us to get to know professional builders and business owners to help us grow and learn.”

 Recruiting skilled tradesmen has proven to be a challenge in an era where the younger generation’s commitment to traditional trades seems to be waning. Brown highlights the importance of finding individuals who not only possess technical skills but also demonstrate a strong work ethic and a willingness to learn.

A New Chapter in a New Building

 Two months ago, Wildman Plumbing moved into its new headquarters at 2296 North Arbor Creek Lane in Springfield, signaling a new era of stability and growth. With a solid foundation in place, Brown envisions a future where the company continues to excel within its niche of custom homes, multifamily residences and commercial projects, driven by strong relationships and a commitment to excellence.

Passing the Torch

 Brown sees potential in the next generation, including his 15-year-old son who shows a keen interest in the family business. As he reflects on the possibility of passing the reins to his son one day, Brown embraces the legacy of entrepreneurship and craftsmanship that defines Wildman Plumbing. “Someday he may be sitting right where I am, which would be pretty cool,” said Brown. “He’s sharp and sees the potential of what he can accomplish with hard work.”

 The story of Wildman Plumbing serves as a reminder that success is born out of perseverance and a willingness to embrace any challenges that may arise. “There are no signs of anything slowing down at all for us,” said Brown. “The future just looks really good.” As Wildman Plumbing continues to chart its course in the ever-changing landscape of the plumbing industry, one thing remains certain: the journey is far from over.