When I was swept up in the 2023 tech layoffs, I could have chased another executive role at a big firm. Instead, I pivoted, hard, into construction. Today, I own and operate an Ideal Siding franchise in Boston with multiple territories, that’s already generating seven-figure revenues. But more importantly, my journey is part of a larger movement— white-collar professionals like me swapping cubicles for hard hats and discovering untapped opportunity in the trades.
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The Rise of White-Collar Migration to Blue-Collar Work
My story isn’t unique. I’m part of a growing trend of professionals leaving traditional office jobs for careers in skilled trades and home services. Several factors are driving this shift:
- Economic Instability in White-Collar Jobs: Industries like tech are increasingly vulnerable to disruptions such as layoffs and automation. A 2024 ADP Research report highlights how artificial intelligence is reshaping the labor market, leaving many knowledge workers uncertain about their job security. I knew I didn’t want to be at the mercy of another layoff. After decades in the tech industry, where the ground seemed to shift beneath my feet every few years, I craved something more solid, more predictable.
- The Resilience of Blue-Collar Industries: Unlike tech or finance, industries like construction and home services are less susceptible to rapid technological disruption. As I like to say, “ChatGPT won’t be putting siding on houses anytime soon.” My Ideal Siding franchise benefits from steady demand for home renovations and repairs, offering stability that many white-collar jobs no longer guarantee. People will always need their homes maintained; that’s a comforting thought when you’re trying to build a business.
- Appeal of Entrepreneurship: Like many professionals, I was drawn to the autonomy and potential profitability of owning my own business. Franchising offered a structured way to enter entrepreneurship with reduced risk—a key factor in my decision to invest in Ideal Siding. I wanted to be in control of my destiny, and franchising gave me a framework to do that without betting it all on a completely unproven idea.
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How My Corporate Background Became an Advantage
One of the most surprising things about my transition is how my corporate experience gave me an edge in the construction business, a field where I had no prior experience. Ideal Siding seeks franchisees from corporate backgrounds, believing that skills like sales, operations management, and customer service can set us apart from traditional contractors. They choose franchisees who are good business owners, regardless of construction expertise.
For me, this approach has paid off. In less than two years since launching my franchise in August 2023, I have completed several high-value projects such as a $230,000 commercial renovation and plan to expand my territory further in the Greater Boston area. My ability to plan and manage operations efficiently and communicate professionally with clients has helped me stand out in a competitive market. Our 25-year warranty combined with a customer-centered approach that makes us look super professional, is a winning combination.
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The Home Services Industry: A Growing Opportunity
My success also reflects broader trends within the home services industry. According to Housecall Pro’s 2024 report, 77% of home service professionals expect their businesses to grow in 2025, driven by rising demand for skilled labor and the essential nature of their work. The industry’s resilience during economic uncertainty makes it an attractive option for entrepreneurs seeking stable and profitable ventures. The demand is there, and it’s consistent.
Moreover, the trades are increasingly seen as viable alternatives to traditional college paths. With vocational enrollment on the rise and skilled labor shortages creating high demand for workers, blue-collar careers offer long-term job security. For professionals like me, these factors make industries like construction not only stable but also highly lucrative.
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Lessons I’ve Learned Along the Way
My career pivot has taught me valuable lessons, especially for aspiring entrepreneurs and side hustlers considering similar transitions:
- Industry Experience Isn’t Always Necessary: My story debunks the myth that you need years of hands-on experience to succeed in blue-collar industries. By leveraging my corporate skills and partnering with a franchise that provides robust support—such as lead generation and marketing—I was able to hit the ground running. Ideal Siding gave me over 550 leads in my first year. Frankly, I was initially drawn to Ideal Siding because they provided the leads. I’m stronger in customer service than marketing, so this was a game changer.
- Adaptability Is Key: Originally from France, I moved to Boston for my corporate career before embracing small business ownership. My adaptability underscores the importance of being open to new opportunities, even if they fall outside your comfort zone. Moving to the U.S. was a big change, but embracing franchising was even bigger.
- Franchising Can Mitigate Risk: For those hesitant about starting a business from scratch, franchising offers a proven model with built-in support systems. Ideal Siding’s call center and digital marketing team gave me a significant advantage—allowing me to focus on closing deals and managing projects. The time I didn’t have to spend drumming up business leads myself was invaluable in those early months.
- Prioritize Customer Experience: One way I differentiate my business is through professionalism and customer-centric service—a hallmark of my corporate background. Maintaining strong relationships with suppliers has helped me build trust with clients and secure repeat business. I also made a point to learn about the local community. One of my favorite memories since opening was the renovation of a historic house from the early 1900s. I had to work with guidelines provided by the Lexington Historic Community and special-order cedar siding. That job, as well as a $230,000 project where I worked with the property manager of a commercial building, helped me establish myself in the community.
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A Broader Shift Toward Blue-Collar Careers
My journey is not just an individual success story; it represents a broader cultural shift toward valuing skilled trades as viable career paths for professionals at all stages of life. As economic uncertainties persist in white-collar industries, I think more workers will likely follow in my footsteps by bringing their expertise into fields where they can make tangible impacts while enjoying greater stability.
For all the side hustlers, sole entrepreneurs, and family business owners out there, my story serves as both inspiration and proof that career reinvention is possible at any point. I moved to the United States for a job opportunity, but I found the most success branching out on my own. Whether you’re considering franchising or exploring opportunities in blue-collar industries, now is the perfect time to take the leap.
By embracing change and leveraging your unique skills, you too can turn challenges into opportunities, and perhaps even find greater fulfillment along the way.
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