"From Combat to Fire Suppression": John La Giglia on Grit, Growth and Building Legacy

In this powerful episode of Atomic Construction, Kevin Hohe welcomes veteran and business owner John La Giglia, co-founder of Chicago Fire Protection. From serving in Iraq and Afghanistan to co-founding a company that now employs nearly 100 people, John’s story is one of grit, perseverance and the power of community.

John shares how his military service shaped his leadership, how the Helmets to Hard Hats program helped him transition into the trades and why integrity and camaraderie matter just as much as skill on the job site. He opens up about starting a business with his brother-in-law from his in-laws’ computer room, pushing through near financial collapse, and what it takes to keep growing while staying true to your values.

This conversation is a reminder that construction is more than concrete and contracts. It is about people, purpose and leaving the world better than you found it.

Key Takeaways:

• How military discipline and leadership translate into business success
• The role of Helmets to Hard Hats in creating opportunities for veterans
• Why grit, sacrifice and family support are crucial for entrepreneurs
• The importance of mentorship and creating career paths for young people in the trades
• Integrity and respect as the foundation of long-term success in construction

Whether you’re in the trades, leading a team or building your own business, John’s story will inspire you to push through challenges and focus on what really matters.

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• Kevin Hohe | LinkedIn

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Produced by Pineapple Audio Production.

Produced by Pineapple Audio Production

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