Recruiting isn’t just about filling positions — it’s about finding the right people to grow with. I sat down with Phil Smith, who leads recruiting at MSD, to talk about what makes this work meaningful, what he looks for in candidates, and why MSD stands out in the trades industry.
Carlee Kremer: Can you share a little bit about your role and what a typical day looks like for you?
Phil Smith: It definitely varies by the day. I’m usually reviewing new applicants, conducting interviews, and checking in with the team to make sure everyone has what they need from me. No two days are exactly the same, which is something I actually really enjoy.
Carlee: How did you get into recruiting in this industry — and what keeps you excited about it?
Phil: I started out as the Safety Manager at MSD, and at one point I was asked to help with some outreach to local schools. I quickly realized how much I enjoyed that part of the work. Recruiting today is tough, but I love what MSD is building and it’s fulfilling to know I get to help shape that future by bringing in the right people.
Carlee: What makes recruiting at MSD different from other companies you’ve worked with?
Phil: MSD is just different. We’re always willing to try something new if we think it’ll benefit the team — whether that’s new software, marketing ideas, or just a new way of doing things. But the biggest difference is how we value people. That’s not just something we say — you feel it here.
Open Positions & Candidates
Carlee: What positions are we currently hiring for?
Phil: Right now, our biggest push is for HVAC/R service techs, experienced plumbers, and sheet metal installers. But honestly, we’re always looking to add great people in any department — if someone can make MSD better, we want to talk to them.
Carlee: How would you describe our ideal candidate? Is there a trait you look for that doesn’t always show up on a résumé?
Phil: There’s no one-size-fits-all, but I do look for people who are team players, self-motivated, and truly want to be here. That last one — wanting to be here — that’s huge.
Carlee: What do you wish more people knew about working in this trade or industry?
Phil: There’s so much opportunity in the trades. For a long time, success was only tied to going to college — and for some, that’s the right path. But here, you can make great money while you learn, avoid student debt, and build a real career. These skills can take you anywhere, too. Even if someone moves away, the trades travel with you.
Culture & Why MSD
Carlee: What do you think makes MSD special for employees?
Phil: I’ve been here 21 years. When I started, we were about 65 people — now we’re closer to 250. We’ve grown a lot, but we’re still family-owned and that matters. You’re not just a number. We care about our people, our families, and our community. Programs like “Give to Grow” aren’t just fluff — they make a real difference.
Carlee: Are there any fun or unique perks or stories you like to share with candidates?
Phil: I usually just share my own story. I started as a first-year sheet metal apprentice. I worked hard, learned what I needed to, and kept growing. That’s what’s possible here. If you show up and put in the work, MSD will help you get where you want to go.
Advice & Trends
Carlee: Any advice for someone thinking about applying?
Phil: Do a little research before you come in — learn who we are. And don’t be afraid to reach out. I’m an open book. Ask questions, get a feel for what we’re all about… and then apply!
Carlee: What’s one thing applicants should always do (or never do) when they apply?
Phil: Always communicate. If you’re struggling with something, talk to us. We can’t always fix it, but shutting down never works. Communication is everything.
Carlee: What are you seeing in the job market right now? Any trends people should know about?
Phil: A big one — more people are retiring from the trades than entering. And these jobs can’t be outsourced. They’re not getting replaced by automation. These are careers that will be here for the long haul.
Looking Ahead & Just for Fun
Carlee: How do you see recruiting changing in the next year or so for our industry?
Phil: I think it’ll continue to be a challenge. Technology will play a bigger role, and I think we’ll see more people transition into the trades from other industries — manufacturing, retail, you name it — especially as automation changes their job landscape.
Carlee: What’s your favorite part about seeing someone new join the team?
Phil: I love it because it means two things: one, we’re gaining someone who can help us serve our clients better, and two, we have a chance to give that person and their family a better life. At the end of the day, we’re here to serve — our clients, our community, and each other.
Interested in joining the team? Reach out to Phil or check out our careers page at msdinc.net/careers to learn more.
