In the dynamic world of business, opportunities often come knocking when one least expects them.
For Tanya Nickel and Lucas Keefe, the journey from franchise employee to franchise owner is a testament to the transformative power of dedication, mentorship, and seizing opportunities. These two individuals took part in TWO MEN AND A TRUCK®’s Mary Ellen’s Moving People Forward® scholarship program– a months-long, intensive program where individuals learn about business ownership, conduct business scoping, and create thorough business plans, all while succeeding in their current roles at TWO MEN AND A TRUCK.
Nickel and Keefe were the two winners of the 2023 scholarship program, and each were surprised via phone call in December from TWO MEN AND A TRUCK President Randy Shacka.
“Today is a special day for the TWO MEN AND A TRUCK brand,” Shacka said. “We have the honor to reach out and congratulate our 2023 Mary Ellen’s Moving People Forward Scholarship winners. For the first time in our history, we have two winners who have surpassed the milestones needed to win the scholarship.”
As we celebrate their remarkable achievements, let's delve into how the TWO MEN AND A TRUCK network is not just about moving possessions, but also about propelling careers forward.
Nickel and Keefe's ascent from their starting roles to franchise ownership showcases TWO MEN AND A TRUCK’s approach to fostering personal and professional growth. Keefe's transition from a move manager in Boise to a prospective franchisee in Idaho Falls underscores the organization's focus on recognizing potential and providing avenues for advancement. Similarly, Nickel's evolution from a director of sales and marketing in Sacramento to a budding franchise owner in Berkley highlights the brand's commitment to empowering individuals to reach their full potential.
"It has enabled me to open the Berkeley location with Mark Snyir and in time, I will be able to run this location on my own and be a full-fledged franchisee," said Nickel. "The $50,000 prize, non-withstanding the information you learn and the connections you make, help you move forward with the business."
As Nickel and Keefe embark on their entrepreneurial journey, their stories serve as inspiration for aspiring franchisees within the TWO MEN AND A TRUCK family. Their determination, coupled with the support of their mentors and the robust infrastructure of the brand, positions them for success in their respective markets. Their achievements underscore the company's unwavering commitment to moving people forward, both literally and figuratively.
"The scholarship program offers an array of incredibly valuable lessons and business knowledge that have skyrocketed my overall aptitude for the business world. I believe the networking aspect of the program is another huge factor in future success,” Keefe said. “The knowledge and experience you gain while going through the program is almost immeasurable. The time management skills I learned through the scholarship, while also working full time, are another amazing attribute to my future success. Altogether, the program has had an amazing influence on not just my work life but personal life as well. The assignments, learning materials, networking, and the knowledge gained that is specific to our business, and just business in general, has really shaped my future."
In the realm of franchising, success is not merely measured in profits but in the growth and fulfillment of individuals. Tanya Nickel and Lucas Keefe's trajectory from employees to franchise owners exemplifies the ethos of TWO MEN AND A TRUCK—a commitment to nurturing talent, fostering growth, and empowering individuals to realize their dreams. As we celebrate their accomplishments, let us reaffirm our dedication to Moving People Forward®, one opportunity at a time.
If you’re interested in a career where you can move forward in your career, check out current postings and apply today at careers.twomen.com.
TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® is the first and largest franchised moving company in the United States. For more information on careers with TWO MEN AND A TRUCK, visit our Careers website.