In this end-of-year solo episode, Chris Thomson reflects on one of the most transformational chapters in the history of Student Works. From smashing revenue records to reinventing the company’s systems, 2025 marked massive progress for the team and set the stage for an even stronger 2026.

Chris walks through the company’s growth, the evolution of the Leaders of Tomorrow podcast, breakthroughs in technology (including the full rebuild of SIMON), increases in operator success metrics, and the continued expansion of fundraising efforts for MS.

He also shares a personal milestone: becoming a grandfather and redefining his vision for the future.

If you want a snapshot of what makes this community powerful…and what’s coming next…this is the episode to hear.

Timestamped Highlights

[00:00:00] – The power of a competitive and cooperative culture

[00:01:10] – Why recognizing progress is a leadership best practice

[00:02:00] – From $10M to $43M: how Student Works accelerated after the pandemic

[00:03:15] – Seven years, 70,000 downloads: the evolution of the podcast

[00:03:40] – Shoutout to Podcast Your Brand for bringing the show to life

[00:04:45] – “I’m a proud grandfather”: welcoming Ella Rae Manje

[00:05:20] – New record averages in both painting and window cleaning

[00:06:30] – Eight million-dollar painting operators…and the first million-dollar window cleaner

[00:07:00] – $2.3M raised for MS: a legacy of impact

[00:08:00] – Five years of system building…and now a full-scale cleanup

[00:09:00] – Introducing SIMON 3.0: a complete rebuild of the company CRM

[00:12:50] – New estimating module + automated profitability safeguards

[00:14:13] – Daily production plans generated instantly inside SIMON

[00:14:50] – Major upgrades to safety, compliance, and team training

[00:18:00] – Final recruitment window: why December is the deadline

[00:19:35] – A call to future leaders: this is your moment to get on the bus

Resources & Links Mentioned

SIMON CRM – Student Works Information Management Organizational Network

Important Links

Connect with Chris: Website | LinkedIn
Learn more about the Student Works Management Program
Apply to be an Owner / Operator in the Management Program
Looking for a fun job this summer? Summer Job Opportunities
Hear more Alumni Success Stories

The Leaders of Tomorrow Podcast is an original production by Chris Thomson. Production and editing by Podcast Your Brand.