Joseph Henschel is no stranger to hard work. With nearly two decades of experience in construction and home repair, the Charlottesville-based handyman has earned a reputation for quality, reliability, and care. From electrical fixes to flooring installs, Joe brings precision to every project. But his story is just as much about people as it is about craftsmanship.
In our interview with Joe, we talked about his journey, the evolution of his business, and what keeps him motivated to help others.
Can you tell us about your background and what inspired you to pursue a career in your field?
I’ve always enjoyed working with my hands and solving problems. I was born in Clearwater, Florida, and after college, I started in retail—first with Luxottica Retail, then running my own sunglasses shop. That taught me a lot about managing operations and customer service. But I always had a passion for home improvement. In 2016, I decided to make that my full-time focus. I wanted to do work that was tangible—where I could see the results, help people, and make a difference in their everyday lives.
What was the pivotal “aha” moment that defined your leadership or business approach?
That came during my time running the Sunglass Shop of Waynesboro. I realized that being successful isn’t just about products or services—it’s about trust and consistency. When I launched my handyman business, I brought that mindset with me. People want someone they can count on to show up, listen, and do the job right. That became the core of my business approach.
What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced, and how did you overcome them to achieve success?
One of the biggest challenges was transitioning from retail to construction full-time. Even though I had years of hands-on experience, running a service-based business is a different ballgame. I had to build a client base from scratch and prove myself through every job. The way I overcame it was by focusing on the small stuff—being punctual, doing clean work, and communicating clearly. That earned me referrals and long-term clients.
How has your leadership or innovation made a significant impact on your industry or community?
I think the biggest impact has been bringing a professional, service-first approach to the handyman space. There’s a stereotype that contractors can be unreliable. I wanted to break that mold. By rebranding as Joe Henschel Handyman in 2024, I made a clear shift toward fast, reliable service work. It’s not glamorous, but it’s work that people need and appreciate. In a way, that attention to detail has helped raise the standard in my local community.
What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs or leaders looking to make their mark in your industry?
Start small and focus on consistency. In this industry, your reputation is everything. It’s not just about being good at the work—it’s about being dependable and respectful of people’s time and homes. Don’t cut corners. And don’t be afraid to shift gears if you realize there’s a better fit for your skills or a more sustainable path.
Can you highlight a specific project or initiative you’ve led that showcases your innovation and leadership?
There’s no single big project that defines my work—it’s more about the everyday jobs that people might overlook. I’ve built my business on service calls, quick fixes, and small renovations. One time, I helped a family get their home ready to sell with a week’s notice. That meant patching drywall, replacing lights, fixing plumbing, and painting—all while coordinating with a tight schedule. Projects like that show how responsive and flexible I’ve built the business to be. It’s about being ready when people need you most.
Key Takeaways
Joseph Henschel doesn’t work in a high-rise office, but his entrepreneurial journey is grounded in the same principles: commitment, adaptability, and integrity. In Charlottesville, he’s become a go-to name for quality home repair—and a quiet leader in the art of showing up, doing great work, and leaving people better off than when he arrived.
To learn more about Joe Henschel, you can visit his personal website.
