40 Under 40: Jack Costa

It was at the Kootenai Technical Education Campus that Jack Costa was introduced to welding in a professional setting.

“From there, I knew I wanted to pursue a career in welding and continue building my skills,” Costa said.

Fast forward 10 years, at age 29 Costa has parlayed some of that knowledge into Costa Fab, one of region's top fabrication and manufacturing entities.

Costa credits his education at KTEC for giving him the welding foundation he needed and for helping him realize he could turn that hands-on skill into a long-term career.

“It helped me discover opportunities I might not have otherwise seen,” he said. Following KTEC, he continued his welding education at North Idaho College, further developing the skills that would help shape his career.

Beyond Costa Fab, he has expanded into other ventures, co-owning Contemporary Marine Flooring—a marine flooring fabrication and installation business—while also pursuing real estate investments and a range of startup opportunities.

Mentors in both business and life have had a tremendous impact on who he is today, and Costa credits them for much of what he has achieved.

“I have been fortunate to be surrounded by supportive friends and family who have helped guide me through the challenges of building a business while maintaining a work-life balance,” he said.

As he looks ahead, Costa said he plans to continue building a business that provides opportunities for his team, makes a positive impact in the community and allows him to be present for his family.

If he could give his younger self one piece of advice, Costa said it would be to be patient.

“Success takes time,” he said. “Be patient, trust the process and put energy into the things you can control.”