Henry Silverman is one of the fourth-generation employees at General Pipe Cleaners. Henry has been at the company full-time for over a year and is currently the Internal Logistics Coordinator and Foreman. General Pipe Cleaners spoke with Henry to learn more about working at his family-run business and what being a fourth-generation employee means to him.

As a fourth-generation employee at General Pipe Cleaners, what does it mean to you to be part of a family legacy?

It means a lot to be in the fourth generation of a business still going strong. Growing up, I constantly heard about what was going on at work, but it obviously didn’t sour me on the idea of working here, and if anything, made me realize I could also have an impact on the legacy of this business and in turn, our family.

What are some of the most important lessons you’ve learned from the previous generations that you apply in your role?

Treat people with respect and work hard. As a kid, I saw my dad going to work every day with his three brothers and all the additional family members at work. That always seemed so normal when I was younger, but now it feels so unique and makes me appreciate what we have here even more!

What skills from previous work experience do you bring to the company?

I’ve gained a range of experience through different roles, including working as a marketing intern at United Way Pittsburgh, serving as a summer camp counselor and spending summers here in the factory since high school. Those early mornings in the factory, starting at 7 a.m. five days a week, taught me the value of discipline and sticking to a schedule. Interning in an office setting, on the other hand, gave me a broader perspective on the business, exposing me to the operational side I hadn’t fully experienced while on the factory floor. Together, these experiences prepared me for the balance of structure and adaptability needed in my role.

How has the family dynamic influenced the culture and operations at General Pipe Cleaners across the generations?

The family-owned nature of General Pipe Cleaners creates a strong sense of familiarity and comfort that eliminates a lot of awkwardness in daily interactions. Everyone is very accustomed to one another and understands how each person operates, which has a significant impact on decision-making. For the most part, everyone focuses on their own specific areas, but open communication is a priority. Even those outside the family have been part of the team long enough to understand and contribute to the dynamic, making it feel like an extended family.

How has working in a family-owned business shaped your personal and professional growth?

I would say it has definitely shaped my personal and professional growth even in the past 18 months that I have been here since college. Seeing the inner workings of a business in many more aspects than just what I am directly involved with has been very eye opening and vital in helping me continue to learn.

What do you find most rewarding about being part of General Pipe Cleaners, and what motivates you to continue the family tradition?

The most rewarding part of being involved with the family business is the ability to talk to anyone working here with a much greater sense of familiarity than at any other job I could be working at. Seeing all the generations work together and new ideas continue to push forward is very interesting and leads me to be very hopeful for the future of the business.

What are your hopes for the future of General Pipe Cleaners?

I hope we continue to grow and find even more things we could add to our repertoire while continuing to keep true to the same values and key practices. I see no reason why we couldn’t keep expanding our horizons and growing the business.

What drew you into the industry?

Surprisingly enough, it was my family that drew me to this industry. Growing up and constantly seeing and hearing about work and the different intricacies of how it was run made me more interested in this industry than the average elementary school student. Seeing the springs get made and the factory in action on “take your child to work” day was always very interesting and, as I grew up and started working in the factory over summers, I was actually able to have a role in the company I’ve known my whole life.

What has been the proudest moment in your career so far?

There has not been a super big moment that comes to mind, but I have been proud of my ability to step up when needed and continue doing whatever is asked of me. Over the last year and a half when certain people were sick or on vacation, I was able to step up and take over their role at least temporarily. And recently I have begun doing more on the factory floor, having a direct hand in our production.

What’s a hobby or interest you have?

All things Pittsburgh and Indiana sports. I love the Steelers, Penguins and Hoosiers! I am also a Dallas Mavericks fan due to the lack of an NBA team in Pittsburgh.

Do you have a funny or memorable story about working with family members that you can share?

We are a very dog friendly business and there is usually at least one dog in the office every single day. Occasionally there are three dogs and around lunchtime it can definitely be a little hectic.

For more information about General’s tools and equipment, visit drainbrain.com, or contact the Drain Brains® at General at 800-245-6200.