Manufacturing
Dan Leckelt, Lindsey Leckelt Silent-Aire Manufacturing Inc. Edmonton
S
ilent-Aire Manufacturing Inc. creates custom, technologicallydriven HVAC solutions for clients worldwide. Co-Presidents and brothers Dan and Lindsey Leckelt credit their parents for teaching them survival skills, strong ethics and dedication. When did you know you wanted to be an entrepreneur? Dan: Since we were children; being an entrepreneur is how we were raised. Lindsey: In Grade 7 I declared that I was going to be a mechanical engineer and work in the family business. Are entrepreneurs born or made? Dan: Entrepreneurs can be born, but a lot can be made. Lindsey: It takes influence to create an entrepreneur.
What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? Dan: The ability to sell yourself. Lindsey: Guts, creativity, self-reflection and the ability to be your own toughest critic. How important have good employees been to your success? Dan: Employees are one of the keys to the success of our business. Lindsey: Our employees are one of the strongest areas of our company. Quality employees are the lifeblood of our organization. What sets Canadian entrepreneurs apart on the world stage? Dan: Our ability to think outside of the box, our creativity and operational flexibility. Lindsey: Canadian entrepreneurs have a larger sense of realization of the value good employees bring to the business. What does being a finalist mean to you? Dan and Lindsey: It is an honour for our company and staff, and a great way for our team to realize the fruits of our hard work. What is your passion other than entrepreneurship? Dan: Hockey. After playing competitively for many years, my passion shifted to coaching kids. Lindsey: Spending time with my wife and kids, playing hockey and working in my yard. How do you define success? Dan: Having the ability to make a difference in people’s lives. Lindsey: Taking care of my family while giving back to my friends and community. Our advice for entrepreneurs is: be flexible, calculate risks, learn from your mistakes, know all aspects of the business, be balanced and stay humble. 26
EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014