Damon Bernath

Damon Bernath is an electrical work expert with over twenty years of experience. He’s known for his ability to repair and install electrical systems in homes and businesses. His journey began in Ross, Ohio, a small but lively community close to Cincinnati. Damon is dedicated to his profession and his community, and his work is a testament to his commitment to both.

Interview with Damon Bernath

Damon, how do you define success, and how long did it take you to find it?

To me, success is more than just reaching certain goals or becoming rich. It’s about finding happiness in what you do, making a positive difference, and growing as a person and in your job. It took me a long time to realize what success really meant to me. I learned this by going through different experiences, both good and bad.

What qualities do you believe are essential for a good entrepreneur?

Being an entrepreneur requires specific qualities that are essential for success. These include being adaptable, resilient, and having a strong work ethic. To overcome challenges, you need to be able to change direction when necessary and always keep your goals in mind. Good communication skills are also necessary, as building and maintaining relationships with customers, suppliers, and employees are crucial for long-term success.

What challenges did you have to overcome at the beginning of your journey?

Starting out, one of the biggest challenges was establishing credibility and building a client base. As a young electrician, gaining the trust of homeowners and business owners took work. I had to work twice as hard to prove my skills and reliability. Like most people starting out, there were financial challenges in setting up my own business and managing cash flow during slower periods. Joining the IBEW was the best path for me to learn my trade. 

What’s one trend in your industry that excites you?

It’s really exciting how technology is being used to make our homes smarter. From lights and thermostats that can adjust themselves to whole-house systems that can be controlled from a phone, these advancements make our lives easier while also helping us save energy and stay safe. By keeping up with these new developments, I can offer my clients the latest and most innovative solutions for their homes.

If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self, what would it be?

It’s important to trust the process and be patient when it comes to building a successful business. Just like Rome wasn’t built in a day, it takes time and effort to achieve your goals. Don’t be discouraged by failures, instead view them as opportunities to learn and improve. Stay focused on your objectives, and never underestimate the power of persistence. Success may not come overnight, but with passion and hard work, it will eventually come.

What is one habit that helps you stay productive?

Staying physically active is an important part of my life. I like to do things like lifting weights and riding motorcycles because they help me feel good physically, mentally, and emotionally. Whenever I take a break and do these activities, I feel more focused and energized when I return to work. It’s a great way for me to recharge and be more productive.

When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused, what do you do?

I prioritize spending quality time with my family. Our annual vacation to Cocoa Beach, Florida, has become a cherished tradition. These trips provide an opportunity for relaxation and family bonding, allowing me to mentally and emotionally recharge. The memories and experiences we create together remind us what truly matters in life.

Key Takeaways

After having a conversation with Damon Bernath, his story seems truly compelling. He started his career as an electrical apprentice and is now a proficient electrician with IBEW Local 212. Damon’s journey demonstrates his significant growth in skills and how he has deeply impacted various critical locations in Cincinnati. He has worked on projects such as the University of Cincinnati and the Cincinnati Art Center, which proves that hard work, learning, and flexibility matter. His career highlights how dedication leads to meaningful community contributions. Damon’s tale encourages future electricians, showing that skilled work can make a significant impact on building and improving our surroundings.