In 2023, PHCPPros launched a new rep agency specifically for brand ambassadors in the PHCP community, PROS REPS. Our clients include highly skilled and influential professionals who showcase their profession, love of the trades, and the products they use and install to their thousands of social media followers.  

PROS REPS client Alan Carlson has been in the plumbing industry for more than 23 years and is an expert at residential service, diagnosing issues and finding solutions, and performing high-quality work with high customer satisfaction. On his Instagram page @alan_carlson, he shares content that showcases his daily work in the field, teaching and assisting other tradespeople along the way.

PHCPPros: How did you enter a career in the trades?

Carlson: It was right after high school and I needed a job. College wasn’t for me. My great grandfather and grandfather were plumbers, so I decided to give it a try. I found an ad in the local paper for a plumber's helper and applied. Twenty-three years later, I’m still at it.

PHCPPros: What is your specialty within the trades? 

Carlson: Residential service. I’ve done many different types and phases of plumbing, but this is where my skills are best used. My problem-solving skills are put to the test daily, and I enjoy fixing plumbing problems for my customers.

PHCPPros: Why did you decide to start using social media to share what you do with the world at large?

Carlson: I wanted to show people that the typical stereotype for plumbers can be wrong. Also, that working with your hands can be fun and rewarding. Not everyone is cut out for an office job.

PHCPPros: What is your favorite type of content to share with your followers? What gets the most engagement? 

Carlson: I like to post (when I can) videos of me working. Actually doing the work and showing my techniques. Pouring lead joints always drives people crazy in the comment section, and I love showing old-school plumbing that only a few regions do anymore.

PHCPPros: What kind of advice would you give to people in the industry who may want to do something similar to you on social media? 

Carlson: Go for it. Do what you like. Don’t be worried about what people think. Just do it, and have fun. It’s just an app, so don’t take it too seriously.

PHCPPros: How do you think the industry can use social media as a tool to encourage the next generation to join the trades?

Carlson: Hopefully we can show young people that there are many alternatives to college. Whether they’re looking for something profitable, fun, different, or challenging, the trades can offer what they might be searching for.

PHCPPros: What kind of advice would you give people who are looking to enter the trades?

Carlson: Try it. Think of what type of work you want to do, and apply for a job in that trade. You can always try something different if you don’t like it.

PHCPPros: Is there anything from your personal life that you'd like to highlight? 

Carlson: Mental health matters. As someone that struggles with depression and anxiety, don’t bottle that up. Find a healthy outlet. Talk to someone. Message me. There’s nothing worse than struggling alone. The trades are a big family, so most of us are willing to help.

Follow Alan on Instagram @alan_carlson.

For Brand Ambassadors: Want to join PROS REPS as a client? Email PROS REPS Business Development Manager Nicole Meyer at nicole@phcppros.com.  

For Manufacturers: PROS REPS can connect manufacturers with individuals like Alan to create custom brand ambassador campaigns. Learn more by emailing Nicole at nicole@phcppros.com. 

Responses have been edited for brevity and clarity.