Tools, Trades & Career Paths: A Look Behind the Counter at Mint Hill Tool Rental

Mint Hill Tool Rental is a dedicated supporter of Put Tools In Schools and the business offers career pathways in the trades.

As the spring sun rises higher and honey-do lists grow longer, tool rental shops across the country are kicking into high gear. But at Mint Hill Tool Rental, located in Mint Hill on Blair Road just outside Charlotte, NC, the hum of business isn't just about equipment—it’s about opportunity.

Recently, Ray Terry, Executive Director of Put Tools in Schools, visited the store to shine a light on an often-overlooked career pathway: the equipment rental and retail support industry.

“It’s not just about renting a tiller or a nail gun,” said Terry. “It’s about understanding how things work—and helping people get their projects done. That knowledge, that service, that support—it’s a real trade.”

A Career That Starts with Showing Up

Dan Wolfe, the longtime store manager at Mint Hill Tool Rental, knows firsthand how rewarding this industry can be. With 35 years in retail and nine at Mint Hill, he’s seen it all.

“First step’s always apply,” Dan said plainly. “Once you apply, you're up. If you don’t show up, you can’t get hired.”

That no-nonsense approach reflects the industry’s roots in hard work, dependability, and hands-on problem-solving. But beyond the basics, there are real skills to be learned—skills that can shape a lifelong career.

“We rent heavy equipment, small equipment, and power tools—everything from floor sanders and buffers to power snakes for plumbing,” Dan explained. “And we teach people how to use it. You can’t just hand someone a trencher without showing them the ropes.”

From Floor Sanders to Futures

Mint Hill Tool Rental is more than a shop—it’s a hub of learning. Employees not only manage inventory and customer service but also maintain and repair complex machines. That includes everything from pneumatic nailers to diesel and gas-powered engines.

“There’s a career here in equipment upkeep alone,” said Terry. “Small engine repair, diesel mechanics, diagnostics—it all happens in-house.”

According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for small engine mechanics is steady, with over 64,000 jobs currently in the U.S. and thousands more expected to open as older technicians retire. Median pay is around $46,000 annually, and many positions don't require a four-year degree.

Meanwhile, the equipment rental market itself is booming. A recent report from the American Rental Association projects the U.S. equipment rental revenue to reach $73 billion by 2027, driven by demand from construction, landscaping, and home improvement sectors.

“This is a growth industry,” Terry said. “And the great part is—it's local. These aren’t jobs you have to leave your community to get. They're right here, right now.”

Learning by Doing

Dan also emphasized the importance of soft skills—often overlooked, but vital to success in retail and customer support roles.

“You gotta' treat people the way you want to be treated,” he said. “It’s about respect. Be honest. If you don’t know something, say so. Then go find out. That’s customer service.”

Those soft skills—communication, honesty, time management—can be the difference between a job and a career. They’re what build trust with customers, confidence in colleagues, and long-term employability.

And learning how to think like a mechanic or technician takes time and mentorship, both of which Dan and his team provide.

“If you're going to be a mechanic, you’ve got to think differently,” Dan said. “Is it a gas issue? A hydraulic issue? An electrical problem? You learn to troubleshoot. You learn critical thinking.”

Critical thinking, unfortunately, is on the decline, says Terry. “I was at a high school career day recently, and most of the kids didn’t know how to unfold a wooden rule. We need to bring that kind of hands-on thinking back.”

Pathways with Purpose

The retail support and equipment rental industry opens doors to multiple career tracks:

• Customer Service & Sales Support Learn tools, advise customers, solve problems, and grow into management roles.
  

• Equipment Maintenance & Repair Specialize in gas, diesel, electric, or hydraulic systems—skills in high demand.
  

• Operations & Inventory Management

  Oversee logistics, ordering, and stock for a constantly moving inventory.
  

• Field Training & Safety Provide hands-on training and safety instruction for rented equipment.

Many of these positions require only a high school diploma, but they offer steady pay, benefits, and chances to learn as you go. For young people unsure of their next step, or adults looking for a career change, places like Mint Hill Tool Rental offer a chance to build a future while serving their community.

A Local Business with a Big Impact

Mint Hill Tool Rental isn’t just a supporter of Put Tools in Schools—they’re part of the reason the organization exists.

“We couldn’t do what we do without them,” said Terry. “Tony Long, one of our board members, has been with us from the start. They believe in this mission. They walk the walk.”

The next time you’re planning a weekend project or in need of a trencher or tile saw, stop by Mint Hill Tool Rental—not just to rent a tool, but to meet the people behind the counter. You might just meet your future career!

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