“My kids will tell you—I can’t retire,” laughs Steve Hayes, owner of Signal of El Paso.

After three decades of high-level service—including assignments in the U.S. Air Force, a role aboard Air Force One, and years as a U.S. Marshal—Steve earned his retirement. But stepping away from service didn’t sit well. His drive to lead, protect, and make a difference didn’t fade. It only changed shape.

Today, Steve owns and operates one of the fastest-growing Signal franchises in the country, bringing peace of mind to the El Paso community—and proving that a life of service can take on new meaning in business ownership.

From National Duty to Local Impact

Steve’s background reads like a checklist of elite service. He spent 15 years in active duty and another 12 in the reserves, culminating his military career aboard Air Force One—an honor reserved for the most trusted members of the armed forces. After 9/11, he continued his commitment to public safety by joining the U.S. Marshals Service, where he served until retiring in 2021. 

But after only six months, Steve began to feel a familiar itch: he needed purpose. He started volunteering locally with the Sun Bowl Committee and the El Paso Chamber of Commerce. That’s when an unexpected opportunity presented itself. 

He reconnected with a longtime friend, Chris Woody, who owned the local Signal franchise. Chris offered Steve a flexible role helping cover nighttime patrol shifts, and Steve jumped at the chance. 

“I told Chris, ‘Put me on salary. I’ll work the shifts no one else can. Don’t worry about overtime—I just want to help,” Steve recalls. 

That offer revealed something deeper than reliability. It showed heart. It showed leadership. Soon after, Chris asked Steve if he’d consider something bigger: taking over the franchise. 

A New Mission, Powered by Purpose

For someone who had never owned a business, the idea could’ve felt overwhelming. But Steve was wired to rise to the occasion. 

“When you work as hard and as fast as I do,” he says, “you start seeing every challenge as an opportunity to prove yourself again.” 

He officially became the owner of Signal of El Paso in early 2024—and hit the ground running. From day one, Steve committed to learning the business from the inside out. He worked shifts. He met clients. He studied the systems. And most of all, he led with purpose. 

“I wasn’t just buying a business,” Steve says. “I was building something that mattered.” 

Turning Operational Strength Into Business Success 

With his military background, Steve brought exceptional leadership skills—quick decision-making, discipline, and the ability to stay calm under pressure. But franchise ownership introduced a new learning curve: financials, pricing, employee retention, and sales strategy. 

Rather than shy away, Steve leaned in. He set aside Thursdays to focus on sales—a world far outside his comfort zone. He asked questions, studied the data, and relied on the Signal network for guidance. 

“I never assumed I knew it all,” Steve explains. “I called every department I could—just wanting to do it the right way.” 

That attitude earned him the 2024 Learning Core Value Award at Signal’s national convention—an acknowledgment of his growth mindset and commitment to excellence. 

Built for Speed, Designed for Service 

Under Steve’s leadership, Signal of El Paso quickly developed a reputation for responsiveness and reliability. 

“If a client calls at 10 p.m. needing a 5 a.m. post filled, we’re there,” Steve says. 

And he means it. Steve often steps in himself when needed, showing his team what it looks like to lead from the front. That commitment to excellence has created loyal clients and a culture where employees are proud to go the extra mile. 

A Network That Has Your Back 

Steve’s success story isn’t one of going it alone. Signal’s built-in support—from seasoned franchisees to Home Office experts—has been critical in helping him grow smarter and faster. 

During a difficult contract negotiation, Steve leaned on his peers across the network. 

“People like Luke Biggs and Aaron Hunter helped me see that it wasn’t the right fit,” he says. “It cost me a 10% drop in revenue that week, but in the long run, we became more efficient—and actually more profitable.” 

Building a Team That’s Built to Last 

Steve doesn’t just staff shifts—he develops leaders. 

From day one, he focused on honoring the team already in place. He raised base pay, introduced bonuses, and made thoughtful gestures like custom Swiss Army knives for holidays and boxed meals delivered by hand on Thanksgiving and Christmas. 

He promotes from within, helping team members grow from officer to supervisor to administrative coordinator. He’s also building a path for local students in law enforcement academies, giving them hands-on experience and a clear vision for their future. 

“We’re not just filling slots,” Steve says. “We’re building careers. We’re building something that lasts.” 

Leading with Respect and Integrity 

Steve leads with one simple belief: people don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care. 

“It’s not about being everyone’s best friend,” he says. “It’s about investing in people and doing what’s right.” 

Signal Support. Local Leadership. Real Community Impact. 

As a franchise owner, Steve embodies what makes Signal unique: local ownership backed by national strength. He’s proud to be a part of the El Paso community and encourages other owners to stay active and visible—whether it’s sponsoring a local rodeo, supporting school plays, or marching in parades. 

“It doesn’t cost much,” he says. “And the impact is huge. People want to know who you are beyond your uniform.” 

What’s Next? Growth with Purpose 

Steve’s five-year vision is bold: scale to $2.5 million in revenue within three years, and $5 million after that. He’s already signing high-value contracts with major clients, expanding into new areas, and optimizing internal processes for long-term success. 

But numbers aren’t what drive him. His focus remains on growing the right way—by supporting his team, serving his clients, and living his values. 

A Life of Service That Never Slows Down 

For Steve Hayes, retirement didn’t stick. But building a business with purpose? That’s a mission worth waking up for. 

That’s why he was recognized as Signal’s February 2025 Franchise of the Month—a title earned through hard work, heart, and an unwavering belief in what’s possible. 

“I’m not a salesman,” Steve says. “I just show up, care about people, and keep learning. That’s what it takes.” 

Inspired by Steve’s story? 

If you’re looking to own a business that blends purpose with potential, Signal might be your next mission. Join a network of leaders, protect your community, and build a business that matters. 

Interested in learning more? Click here to explore franchise opportunities with Signal today.