What happens when a former diesel mechanic decides to solve one of the construction industry's biggest hidden problems? After an injury ended his original career path, and his adventures took him from Australian mines to the mountains of Kazakhstan, Ben Horstmann spotted a critical gap in how construction and mining companies manage equipment safety and compliance. Eight years ago, he launched Consolidated Plant Services with a passionate refusal to hire any employees. Today, his team has assessed tens of thousands of pieces of equipment and is redefining industry standards across Australia. Ben’s journey from technical expert to business leader wasn't straightforward. In this episode, Ben shares candid insights about building a category-defining business. He explains why he fired customers who didn't align with his values, how he overcame his resistance to building a team, and his unconventional approach to growth, which prioritises long-term relationships over "sugar-hit" profits. Whether you're running an engineering firm, a technical services company, or any business where quality and reputation are paramount, Ben's insights on building a sustainable, values-driven organisation while maintaining technical excellence are invaluable. His story demonstrates how combining technical expertise with strong values and long-term thinking can create a unique and successful business model in a traditional industry. Join us to discover how combining deep technical expertise with strong values can create a unique and successful business model in a traditional industry.