When Lynn Tomasek, Justin Kansteiner and Michelle Carwin took over the family business in 2015, they knew the stakes were high. Since 1980, Brothers Plumbing, Heating & Electric has been a family-owned business. Sustaining a company for that long doesn’t happen by accident — it takes good business sense, teamwork, and a passion for people to help the business not only survive but thrive.
The three siblings are committed to keeping the Brothers’ culture alive. That’s why it’s no surprise they’re again a Denver Post Top Workplace in 2025.
An environment of safety, value, and support
Developing lasting relationships where everyone wins is the mission of Brothers. They ensure not only that their clients and community know they care, but also their team members. The company’s safe, honest, and helpful working environment demonstrates this commitment.
“Brothers values each team member, providing a supportive work environment that encourages growth and skill enhancement,” said Jeff J., an HVAC technician. “In addition to competitive compensation, Brothers offers ongoing training and opportunities for career advancement.”
Safety is also of absolute importance to the Brothers culture. Above all, the company wants to ensure its team members are updated on the latest safety techniques and procedures to ensure their well-being. The company does this through a variety of programs at its training center and with monthly safety meetings. In 2025, the State of Colorado recognized Brothers as Workplace Safety PCC Certified.
Five-star reviews from employees and customers
When it comes to team member culture, Brothers is hard to beat. In addition to steady hours, competitive pay, and comprehensive benefits, leadership gets high marks for how they treat team members.
“Management is caring, industrious and works hard to create an atmosphere of fun and accomplishment,” said Bee, a Brothers’ Dispatcher. “The entire organization is a team effort, and management always makes sure we know exactly what we’re worth with words of encouragement, bonuses, awards and special events.”
Having happy team members positively affects service. And Brothers knows that when team members enjoy their work, they are more likely to go the extra mile with clients. Brothers’ multitude of five-star customer reviews back that up — as do the many clients who share their experiences.
“Jeff was extremely knowledgeable about the repairs and communicated exactly what was going on and what needed to be done to fix it,” said customer Michael A., who hired Brothers for a sprinkler repair. “[He] gave me several options as to how we could proceed, and I felt he put the best interest of doing the job right first while also trying to give me the most cost effective solution.”
Technicians often teach clients about the equipment and even do things like shoveling snow on cold winter days or bringing flowers to clients who are going through a tough time. Taking the time to do things like this isn’t a value exhibited by team members at all companies. It takes a special type of person and environment to foster that kind of happiness.
Team members are truly ‘GEMs’
When team members at Brothers do go the extra mile, a new program called “GEM” rewards them. Through GEM, team members can nominate each other or brag on themselves for showing that extra layer of care Brothers give its clients and team members. Instead of using a one-size-fits-all approach, GEM recipients are recognized at company functions and have the opportunity to pay their recognition forward through charitable donations while also receiving points through Brothers new Star Rewards program. Team Members can use their points to select from a wide range of gifts through a third-party website.
“The Star Rewards give us an opportunity to shine light on ‘above and beyond’ performance, the team is recognized throughout the year for meeting KPIs, achieving anniversary milestones and various other celebratory moments. Through Star they now get points,” said Jamie Ready, Talent Acquisition Specialist at Brothers.
Not only do team members interact and collaborate during working hours. Brothers also recently created a “Dungeons and Dragons” team member club in addition to existing health and wellness groups and monthly book clubs.
Brothers’ bright path toward the future
This year marks Brothers’ 45th year of business. One reason it’s remained such a coveted employer and service provider in the Denver area for so long is its strong brand recognition.
“Our reputation continues to build and grow throughout the Denver metro, which I always find very impressive,” said Ready. “I serve as our recruiter, when I talk to people interested in employment, I ask how they heard about us. Countless times they say, ‘I’ve seen your trucks. I know you through the industry.’”
The company has also been strategic about its growth.
“We’ve always had a very steady growth plan.” said Ready. “We build on our vision to be known for above and beyond service and that reputation results in a very steady growth pattern.”
The people who see the growth the most are long-time team members.
“I have been working for Brothers Plumbing since 2000,” said Plumbing Technician Joe R. “I plan on retiring here and encourage [others] to join our team.”
Brothers’ strong team member culture is supported each year with a “cornerstone” theme that aligns with their goals for the year. This year’s theme? “Buckle Down: Discipline Secures Success.”
“We’re using this year’s theme both to get back to fundamentals and continue building on the legacy that got us to 45 years,” said Ready. “And we’re delighted to continue focusing on our key building blocks that make Brothers such a special workplace for the next 45.”
The news and editorial staffs of The Denver Post had no role in this post’s preparation.
