Colton Taylor, 30
Outside Sales
QED
Colton, who joined the industry in 2015, was hired as director of tools, fasteners, and safety [TFS] at QED in September 2020. He was promoted to branch manager of QED Broomfield, Colo., in June 2002 and then, this past June, to outside sales calling on some of QEDs largest customers.
“Two of my uncles worked in the construction industry—one an electrician, the other an HVAC tech—and my grandfather taught me woodworking as a hobby growing up,” recalled Colton. “I attended a career fair at Texas A&M University and met Techtronic Industries. I’ve always loved working with my hands, so working for a tool company sounded right up my alley. I was eventually promoted to the Milwaukee Tool side of the company, where I worked with electrical and plumbing distributors and end-users. I eventually decided to move over to the distribution side of the business with Ferguson and really enjoyed being directly involved with end users. I was then recruited to start the TFS division for QED. Working with electricians, going on job sites, and the continued problem-solving I face daily, really keeps me coming back and dedicated to the construction industry.”
When asked about a problem currently facing the electrical industry, Colton pointed to labor shortages and supply chain issues. “QED is a market leader in helping to provide labor-saving solutions to electrical contractors and our services tell a great story as to the value we bring,” he said. “Starting the TFS division helped make us a ‘one-stop shop’ that contractors can use to source all materials, which means less deliveries to site/office and helps keep the field working and stocked for anything they may need.”
As for his career goals, Colton referenced his recent promotion to outside sales. “My customers have worked all over the country; from Colorado, Wyoming, Utah, Montana, Iowa, and Texas, so it has taken strategic planning to ensure QED can best service our customer’s needs,” he said. “My overall career goal is to be the president of QED. I believe my new role in outside sales, along with my previous management roles, will help me gain crucial customer relationships and market experience that will provide me with the tools needed to one day run my operating company.”
What would Colton tell someone just entering the industry? “Integrity and work ethic are crucial to succeeding,” he said. “Being upfront and honest in everything you do builds credibility. There are rarely handouts in this industry; you have to be willing to put in the work to find success.”
When he’s not working, Colton said he can be found “hunting, fishing, snowboarding, traveling with my wife (Taylor), and hanging out with friends, family, and my two dogs (Boudreaux and Grizzly).”
Each year tED magazine recognizes 30 of the industry’s best and brightest under the age of 35. Please visit tedmag.com/30Under35 for nomination information and updates about the 2024 program. Questions can be sent to tED Editor Misty Byers at mbyers@naed.org.
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