Meet Gunther Baker, the owner of Icon Plumbing LLC (iconplumbingne.com).
Tell us a little about your business. – I knew when I started working as a plumber over 12 years ago that I wanted to own my own plumbing company eventually. We started in 2019 my word of mouth and just me, and quickly it has grown. I strive to make sure we get the job done right. It is important to me that when I am working with someone they know they can trust us with their project.
How did you get started in the business? – I worked in corrections prior to getting into plumbing. I have always loved working with my hands either on vehicles, small engines, or house projects, and I love seeing a project from start to finish, which feels like such a great accomplishment. So I left corrections, and I started working as a warehouse manager for a plumbing company here in Lincoln 12 years ago and moved through all the different aspects of plumbing, excavating and ditch work, construction plumbing, and service. I wanted to know as much as I could so that I could eventually open my own company. Over the years, I built up my own customer base and was able to finally make a name for myself.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? – Understanding that owning your own business is far more paperwork than I realized.
What has been your most important achievement professionally? – Obtaining my master’s license and starting my own business.
Tell us a little about your family. – My wife and I have been married for nine years, and have three kids. They are all into various activities so our life is being their Uber drivers to their functions. We enjoy spending time at the trap range or bowling alley with our oldest, or watching some micro volleyball and micro soccer with my younger two. We also love to travel and spend most of our travel adventures trying to enjoy the outdoors.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? – Leaving my stable government job and going to the private sector to start working in plumbing, and marrying my wife.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? – I love to hunt and fish. Right now fishing is where I would be when I have free time, which is not nearly enough.
What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? – I can work in plumbing all day, but the site of chewed bubble gum makes my stomach churn.
Who inspires you? – There are so many people that inspire me. I think anyone that is out there working hard to accomplish their goals is inspiring. And of course, my mom and my wife.
What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? – A bad day of fishing is still better than a good day at work.
If you had a theme song, what would it be? – “Man of Steel” by Hank Willimas Jr.
What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life? – Knowledge of random history facts.
What is your favorite local restaurant? – Round the Bend Steakhouse.
If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? – John Moses Browning.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – (402) 416-0406; Icon.plumbing.lincon@gmail.com; www.iconplumbingne.com.