16 - Building a Family Legacy: Insights on Entrepreneurship and Worker Safety
The Entrepreneurial Journey of Tim Jenkins: Founder of Gorilla Concrete Tools
In a recent podcast episode, HR Huntsman sat down with Tim Jenkins, the founder and driving force behind Gorilla Concrete Tools, to explore his entrepreneurial journey and the evolution of his business. This candid conversation uncovers Tim’s passion for invention, the hurdles of managing a family-run company, and his steadfast dedication to product quality and worker safety. Through Tim’s experiences, listeners are offered a deeper look into what it truly takes to build and sustain a purpose-driven small business in today’s competitive market.
Early Interests and Background
Tim's journey into entrepreneurship began long before he ever built a business. As a child, he was drawn to mechanics, fascinated by how things worked and eager to tinker with anything he could get his hands on. Though school wasn’t his strong suit, he found clarity and motivation in hands-on problem-solving. Raised in a modest household where financial constraints were a constant reality, Tim learned how to fix things out of necessity. He recalls working alongside his father, who wasn’t a professional mechanic but knew enough to keep the family car running. Those early moments of collaboration and curiosity became the foundation of his career in mechanical innovation.
Tim’s story underscores how early exposure to problem-solving and a willingness to learn by doing can shape a person’s path in life. His childhood experiences fueled his love for invention and gave him the confidence to build tools and machines that address real-world needs. The lesson here is that passion and practical experience can often outweigh formal education when it comes to innovation and entrepreneurship.
The Birth of Gorilla Concrete Tools
Roughly two decades ago, Tim and a friend working in warehouse remodeling spotted a significant problem in their line of work: there were no efficient tools for repairing cracks in concrete. Rather than settling for inadequate solutions, Tim used his mechanical skills to create a machine specifically designed to address this issue. The tool worked so well that he and his wife decided to showcase it at trade shows, which became the launchpad for Gorilla Concrete Tools.
This moment marked the beginning of something bigger than just a clever invention. It was a clear example of identifying a market gap and responding with a purpose-built solution. Trade shows became an essential part of their strategy—not only as a means of selling products but also for gathering feedback and connecting with potential customers and partners. Tim’s ability to see opportunity where others saw frustration was a key driver in turning a single tool into a growing business.
Family Dynamics in Business
As Gorilla Concrete Tools expanded, it became a true family business. Tim’s wife, sons, and other relatives joined the operation, adding both strength and complexity to the company’s day-to-day functions. Tim speaks openly about the challenges and advantages of running a family-owned business. He acknowledges that balancing personal and professional relationships is never easy, especially when expectations differ between family and non-family team members.
He emphasizes the importance of treating everyone with respect, regardless of their role or relation. While it can be tempting to hold family to a different standard, Tim makes a conscious effort to foster an environment where each person’s contributions are valued. The loyalty and commitment that come from working with loved ones can be incredibly powerful, but it requires clear communication and a shared understanding of the business’s goals.
Commitment to Product Quality and Worker Safety
One of the core principles that guide Tim’s business philosophy is the unwavering commitment to safety and product integrity. Having worked as a mechanic, Tim knows firsthand how dangerous equipment failures can be. That’s why he insists on using high-quality materials, thorough testing, and continuous product refinement.
He also believes in the power of a positive work environment. His team’s well-being is just as important as the tools they produce. Tim maintains that when employees feel safe, respected, and supported, they perform better—and the business benefits as a result. At Gorilla Concrete Tools, safety and satisfaction are non-negotiable. This commitment has built trust with customers and helped the company establish a reputation for reliability and innovation.
Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
As the episode wraps up, Tim offers heartfelt advice to budding entrepreneurs. He talks about the value of surrounding yourself with people who uplift you, noting that his wife’s support has been a cornerstone of his entrepreneurial journey. Having a partner or a team that believes in the vision can make all the difference, especially during difficult seasons.
Tim urges young business owners to be patient and persistent. Success doesn’t happen overnight, and the path is often filled with uncertainty and setbacks. But staying committed to your mission and learning from each experience is what ultimately leads to long-term growth.
He also speaks to the critical role small businesses play in local economies. Entrepreneurs shouldn’t underestimate their ability to spark innovation, create jobs, and inspire change within their communities. For Tim, being part of a small business is about more than profits—it’s about building something meaningful and lasting.
Conclusion
Tim Jenkins’s journey from a curious, hands-on kid to the founder of Gorilla Concrete Tools is an inspiring example of what’s possible when passion meets purpose. His approach to innovation, leadership, and family shows that success is rooted in authenticity, integrity, and perseverance. The conversation with HR Huntsman offers practical takeaways and an honest look into the realities of entrepreneurship.
From recognizing gaps in the market to building a loyal team, prioritizing safety, and fostering resilience through tough times, Tim’s experience provides a blueprint for anyone seeking to start or grow a values-driven business. His story reminds us that entrepreneurship isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about staying curious, working hard, and never losing sight of why you started in the first place.
