Joe Casper’s path to franchise ownership began far from a corporate office. At 19, he joined the Army as a Cavalry Scout, seeking action and hands-on experience.
“I had an injury on my first day in Baghdad, so my first six months were spent in the headquarters unit,” he says. “I worked as the main radio operator for the colonel and sergeant major. It wasn’t what I expected, but it gave me a close-up view of leadership, decision-making, and teamwork under pressure. You see how they handle troops under fire, direct air support, and make quick decisions. That perspective was huge, even though I was just a young soldier.”
Though those experiences were far from civilian life, they gave Joe an early education in managing high-stakes situations and leading teams, skills that would later become essential when he stepped into franchise ownership.
Discovering Ace Handyman Services
After his service in the Army, Joe returned to Omaha where he pursued his degree and began a career with a family-owned transportation company. When the opportunity to purchase an Ace Handyman Services territory came up, Joe and his wife Jessica saw it as the perfect next step.
“The franchise checked all the boxes for us,” Joe says. “It gave us flexibility and ownership, and we still get to work directly with people. It’s hands-on, it’s about building a team.
Building a Community-Focused Business
Since acquiring 3 Ace Handyman locations in Omaha, Lincoln, and West Des Moines. Joe and Jess have focused on strengthening teams and connecting with the community. Social media efforts have tripled their following in six months, and referrals are pouring in. “People are excited about the service we provide,” Joe says. “It’s rewarding to see our work make a real difference for homeowners.”
Jess has been a key partner both at home and in the business. “She’s organized, driven, and incredibly supportive,” Joe says. “We’ve built a business that works for us, and together we’re creating opportunities for our team to succeed.” The franchise also offers a discount to veterans, something Joe is proud of. He also plans to expand efforts to support the local community as the business grows.
Pulling From Military Experience
Joe says his military background continues to shape how he runs Ace Handyman Services.
“The leadership, discipline, and ability to get things done under pressure translates directly to business,” he says. “You know how to handle problems, keep the team moving, and make decisions quickly. That gives veterans an advantage in running a franchise.”
Advice for Fellow Veterans
For veterans considering franchising, Joe’s advice comes from his past training: “Use what you learned in the military. Lead by example, take care of your team, and focus on solving problems. Don’t shy away from those strengths,you’ll need them, and they give you an edge.”
Looking Ahead
Currently, Joe and Jess are focused on growing their three locations internally. Omaha alone has room to expand the team from nine to 15 or 20 craftsmen. “We want to strengthen what we have before we look at new locations,” he says. “Once the foundation is solid, there’s definitely room to grow further in the region.”
For Joe, Ace Handyman Services is more than a business, it’s a chance to apply the leadership, problem-solving, and teamwork skills he honed in the Army to something tangible in his community. “Owning a franchise gives me the chance to lead, mentor, and create a business that matters to people,” he says.
With three thriving locations, raising two young sons with his wife, and ambitious growth plans, Joe Casper’s journey shows how veterans can leverage their experience to build successful franchises. His story highlights not only the opportunities within Ace Handyman Services, and the value veterans bring to business ownership.
For those exploring their next chapter in entrepreneurship, Ace Handyman Franchising offers a supportive community, strong brand, and a roadmap to launch your own business.
Ace Handyman Services offers professional, reliable home repair and popular handyman services to homeowners throughout the region. Backed by the trusted Ace brand, the local team is made up of background-checked, insured, and experienced craftsmen, known for their quality workmanship, friendly service, and dedication to improving both homes and communities.
AHS is a trusted national home improvement and remodeling company, known for delivering exceptional service and quality craftsmanship. With offices across the country, AHS helps homeowners transform their spaces with confidence and ease.