Next Gen All Star: Jake Zwerdlinger

By Natalie Forster, Editorial Director, Nicole Krawcke

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Jake Zwerdlinger

AGE: 36

COMPANY: FLINK SUPPLY CO.

TITLE: VP, BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

How long have you been in the PHCP-PVF industry?

I started working in the industry when I was 14 years old with our founder and grandfather, Irving Flink during summer break. After graduating from college in 2009 I began my career full time in the industry.

What drew you into the industry?

Growing up I admired the humble devotion, love and respect my grandfather had for his company, the industry and the city of Denver. He cared greatly for his customers, reps and his employees. He was selfless in his work and turned salesmanship into an art form. The opportunity to help carry on this legacy and proudly serve our great industry is what made joining our family business an easy decision.

What is the most rewarding aspect of working in the industry?

The most rewarding aspect of working in this industry, is the ability to bring customer focused solutions to an ever changing environment. It is no secret the way the industry buys, sells and delivers equipment and material is in a rapidly changing life cycle. It is highly rewarding to be able to continue, grow, and support a generational customer base.

What motivates you every day?

My daily motivation is my business partner and mother Lynn Zwerdlinger. After the passing of my grandfather, Lynn stepped into his role operating Flink Supply with a strong business back ground but little knowledge of the industry. She sacrificed her life’s work to carry on his legacy and our families business. After 20 years of building a resilient and successful business, if I’m lucky, I’d be able to convince her that retirement might be enjoyable.

What is one thing you wish more people knew/understood about the PHCP-PVF industry?

I wish more people understood the opportunities not only our industry but all trades can offer as a successful, fulfilling and sustainable career.

What has been your proudest moment in your career so far?

Our family, staff and customers have helped build the great city of Denver. We have helped build homes, schools, airports, improved infrastructure and support the maintenance of our city. Being able to drive around Denver and point out a building or place, and say with pride “We helped build that” is something no other industry can offer.

What is one thing most people don’t know about you?

I have an extensive Rock Poster and art collection.

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Natalie Forster is the director of communications for the American Supply Association (ASA), where she leads the association's public and media relations strategy, social media efforts, and member-focused online and print communications. Prior to joining ASA, she was the Editorial Director of Plumbing & Mechanical and Supply House Times. Before that, she served as an editor and digital content director for Southern Trade Publications, a publishing company focused on the PHCP trades and real estate industries. Natalie holds a bachelor's degree in communication studies from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro.

Nicole Krawcke is the former Chief Editor of Plumbing & Mechanical. She joined BNP Media in 2014 and served as Web Editor and Business Management Editor of The ACHR NEWS. Prior to joining BNP, she worked at Patch.com, a hyper-local news platform focused on community journalism. She has 10 plus years of writing and editing experience and holds a bachelor’s degree in Journalism from Michigan State University.