Entrepreneur
September 9, 2024

Pioneering Entrepreneurship in Construction

A Conversation with Zach Laberge

In the latest episode of the Give Us The Dirt podcast, we had the pleasure of hosting Zach Laberge, the 20-year-old Founder and CEO of Omen (formerly Frenter). Zach’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary; he started his company at just 16, driven by a passion for solving real-world problems in the construction industry. His innovative approach is transforming how contractors’ access and utilize construction equipment, making waves in the sector. This episode dives deep into Zach’s entrepreneurship journey, offering valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs and industry professionals alike.

 

Discovering Problems, Finding Solutions

One of the most significant moments in our conversation was Zach’s unique perspective on entrepreneurship. While many start by seeking to build solutions, Zach focused on identifying problems that hadn’t yet been solved. This mindset set him apart, allowing him to create something truly impactful. “If the solution already exists, it’s probably not something I want to work on,” Zach shared, highlighting his forward-thinking approach.

"If the solution already exists, it’s probably not something I want to work on..."

Zach Laberge
Entrepreneur
Give Us The Dirt Host Brandon Lindsey with Zach Laberge

Navigating the Challenges of a Young Entrepreneur

Zach’s journey hasn’t been without its challenges. Growing up, his young peers weren’t necessarily focused on business, which can be an isolating path at times. However, Zach found community and mentorship online, connecting with like-minded individuals who shared his passion for technology and entrepreneurship. This network became a crucial support system as he navigated the ups and downs of building a startup.

Entrepreneurship

The Importance of Adaptability

Zach emphasized the importance of learning, experimenting, and being willing to pivot. His first business idea, a marketplace for renting tools, showed early promise but ultimately didn’t generate enough revenue. This led Zach to refocus his efforts, pivoting to new ideas that better aligned with market needs. His adaptability and willingness to learn from failure have been key to his success.

Securing Early Investment and Learning from Mistakes

Remarkably, Zach secured a quarter of a million-dollar investment at just 16 years old from a billionaire investor. However, early success came with its own set of challenges. Zach candidly discussed the mistakes he made, such as burning through funds too quickly, hiring too many people and having to return to investors for additional support. These experiences have shaped his approach to business, teaching him the importance of careful resource management.

Omen: Revolutionizing Construction with Data Intelligence

Today, Zach’s company, Omen, is making significant strides in the construction industry. Omen’s core product acts like a “stethoscope, a doctor and a pharmacy” for construction equipment, analyzing the environment and machinery and identifying solutions in order to optimize efficiency. This innovative approach is helping companies operate more effectively, underscoring Zach’s commitment to solving meaningful problems in the industry.

Zach Laberge’s story is a powerful reminder of what can be achieved with passion, persistence, and a problem-solving mindset. His journey from a teenage entrepreneur to the CEO of a groundbreaking tech company offers invaluable lessons for anyone looking to make their mark in the business world. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a construction professional, or simply curious about the future of the industry, Zach’s insights are sure to inspire.

Tune in to the full episode to hear more about Zach’s journey and the exciting developments at Omen. 

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