ColumnsManaging Your Restoration Business

Your Most Valuable Asset Isn’t Equipment, It’s Your People

In our industry, our greatest asset isn’t our gear or equipment, it’s the people who power our businesses every day

teamwork — Credit: tadamichi / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Welcome to the fall print issue of R&R Magazine. Before I dive into my thoughts and message, I wanted to take a moment to say thank you.

2025 has been a chaotic year, from unpredictable disasters to slower paced in some areas that we thought would be booming by now. Some of us are tired, maybe even burnt out. There is no better time than now to take a moment and thank every single person in our industry for all that they do. So, with that, I want to say Thank YOU on behalf all of us here at R&R Magazine and The Experience.

Over the last few months, I have had the opportunity to talk to many of you whether it was for an editorial opportunity, podcast or simply just catching up and we always seem to land on the same topic: the power and importance of our teams.

Most recently, I had an opportunity to interview Jeff Jones, Violand Management Associates’ Director of Marketing and Sales for the Technician Award nominations and he said something that really stuck with me:

“A rising tide raises all ships. So, when you remember that your only true competitive advantage you really are going to have are your people — we all use the same equipment, we go to the same training classes, it's the same standards and certifications — It's the people that make the difference…”

This really struck a chord with me, because in a world with technology, equipment, tools and everything in between, the one constant that does really set you apart is your people. Sure technology, tools, equipment, etc. are cool and all, but people are the core of our business.

When it’s busy, you can count on them handling all the ins and outs of the jobs. When it’s slow, you can invest in your team through training, recognition, well-being and culture building.

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What makes our industry great is the people. And that echoes how valuable they really are, not just to your business, but our industry and our customers.

While you’re here at The Experience, take advantage of connecting with fellow industry professionals, share your ideas, collaborate, celebrate, and most importantly, enjoy your time here in Las Vegas.

On behalf of the R&R and The Experience teams, thank you for all you do!

Warm regards,

Kayla McGowan
Editor-in-Chief, Restoration & Remediation
mcgowank@bnpmedia.com | 757-849-2461

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Kayla McGowan is the SPAR Partner Manager for PuroClean, where she manages and strengthens the company’s vendor partnership ecosystem. In her role, she serves as a key liaison between PuroClean, approved vendor partners, internal stakeholders, and Franchise Owners, helping connect the network with trusted tools, services, and products that support operational success.

With more than 10 years of experience in marketing and communications within the restoration and cleaning industry, Kayla has built her career around connecting people, ideas, and resources that move the industry forward. She is the former Editor-in-Chief of Restoration & Remediation (R&R) Magazine and continues to contribute to R&R as a writer, bringing her industry knowledge and perspective to its audience.

Kayla holds a B.S. in Criminal Science and an M.S. in Public Safety and Emergency Management from Grand Canyon University. She also serves as Co-Chair of the Restoration Industry Association’s Marketing Committee.

Her industry credentials include Microbial Warrior®️, Certified Forensic Operator®️, and High Risk/High Level Decontamination Specialist™️. Passionate about elevating the restoration industry and the professionals within it, Kayla enjoys building meaningful relationships, sharing knowledge, and creating opportunities for collaboration. Outside of work, she is a food lover who enjoys spending time with her family and being outdoors.