0:00 - 0:36: Introduction

• Host Steve Van Diest introduces the Sharpen Podcast, powered by Acumen, a business community for CEOs and business owners.
• Episode focus: lessons learned as a leader of an 80-year-old family business, transitioning between generations, and adapting to economic and industry shifts.
• Guest: Dale Hahs, a member of Acumen's Summit team and CEO of AIS Industrial & Construction Supply.

0:37 - 1:09: Company Origins

• AIS was founded in 1945 by Dale’s grandfather, Paul Christensen, to sell supplies to airlines at Stapleton Airfield in Colorado post-WWII.
• Dale joined the company in 1985 at age 21 after graduating with a math degree from Westmont College.

1:10 - 3:01: Early Career at AIS

• Dale’s introduction to the company involved billing and accounting, learning from long-time employees.
• He reflects on AIS’s evolution from handwritten orders to early computer systems, highlighting major technological transitions over the years.

3:02 - 5:18: Leadership Evolution

• Leadership transitioned from Dale’s grandfather to his uncle, Kobe.
• Dale stepped into the CEO role in 2005 after years of learning the business under his uncle's guidance.

5:19 - 8:40: Adapting Through Decades

• AIS shifted focus as the aviation industry changed, moving from surplus aviation hardware to broader industrial and construction supplies.
• The 1980s marked a pivot to serving mechanical and electrical contractors, a market that remains central today.

8:41 - 10:02: Values and Faith in Leadership

• Dale discusses how his faith shaped his leadership, helping him navigate challenges and inspire a values-driven company culture.
• Prayer and reliance on God played a significant role during difficult times.

10:03 - 12:24: Pivotal Challenges

• A sales manager’s departure in 2005 forced Dale into a more active leadership role, which stretched his abilities but led to significant growth.
• A culture of adaptability and continuous improvement became foundational to overcoming obstacles.

12:25 - 14:18: Preparing the Next Generation

• Dale’s son, Taylor, has worked at AIS for nearly a decade, learning the business from the ground up.
• Passing down values through example and daily practice is central to Dale’s mentorship approach.

14:19 - 16:13: Structured Values

• AIS adopted 34 core fundamentals through their association with AD (Affiliated Distributors), which guide daily operations and company culture.
• These values are displayed throughout the company and reinforced through meetings and other materials.

16:14 - 18:48: Industry Challenges

• Dale highlights competition from Amazon and industry consolidation as ongoing challenges.
• AIS differentiates itself by offering tailored inventory and exceptional service, emphasizing its value proposition.

18:49 - 20:20: Personal Growth and Leadership

• Dale shares the importance of pushing oneself into uncomfortable situations, such as public speaking.
• Serving as president of a trade association has been a recent challenge helping him grow as a leader.

20:21 - 24:09: Closing Reflections

• Dale reflects on AIS’s balance between honoring its legacy and embracing innovation.
• Steve emphasizes Dale’s intentionality in mentorship and leadership, ensuring the company’s longevity and success.
• Listeners are invited to learn more about Acumen and its offerings for business leaders.