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How long have you been in the PHCP-PVF industry?

I started working in the industry as summer help while in High School. While also working through college with the intention of earning a criminal justice & business degree, I was promoted from yard & warehouse help to counter sales. Having earned a few more promotions since then, I am now the company's Purchasing Manager and IT Director, with this year marking my 20^th year in the industry.

What drew you into the industry?

When working in the industry throughout high school & college, I quickly found this business was in my blood. Each day was different, and you were constantly moving. I’m a very competitive person, and I enjoy the competitive side of the business. I think the qualities that drew me into the industry are also what keep me here. Fast-paced, competitive, ever-changing, fun, physical, etc.

What is the most rewarding aspect of working in the industry?

There are many rewarding aspects of this industry. If I had to pick one, it would be the fact that everything we do or sell is considered essential for daily life. No housing, buildings, farming, or many other industries would be possible without the things we sell. It is rewarding to know you are a part of an industry that many would consider a pillar in the world we live in.

What motivates you every day?

I think my personal motivation would be my family. I want to be a strong example for my daughter and son. I work very hard to make my wife & kids proud. I have a strong work ethic instilled in me by my parents, and I watched my dad work very hard growing up, as he does to this day. Professionally, I am motivated to help the business grow. I want to help keep Interstate Pipe a place where customers can stop and know they are going to get friendly, reliable service. I want customers to leave our company after talking to me or one of our team members, and never want to shop anywhere else. Customers can buy the products we sell at numerous different places. I want to provide service & support unmatched in the industry.

Along with service, I want to make sure that when customers stop at Interstate, they get all the products they need with complete fill rates and no back orders. Time is money for our customers, and providing them with the best service, dependability, and item selection is of utmost importance. I want to continue to engage with the younger generation and the up-and-coming contractors, excavators, plumbers, etc. I want them to know Interstate Pipe stands behind our customer base and will support them in every decision we make. Lastly, I want to continue to learn and evolve as our industry does. Technology has become a huge part of changing our industry, and I’m happy to say we are staying current with it. As it continues to change the landscape of this industry, I hope to continue staying on the cutting edge.

What is one thing you wish more people knew/understood about the PHCP-PVF industry?

I wish more people understood how great this industry is. While you will only get out of the industry what you put in, you can and will learn something new every day. On paper, this industry doesn’t look too glamorous. However, the bonds and friendships this industry helps create and the connections you make along the way with customers, vendors, and sales reps are unmatched by any other industry. A strong work ethic and willingness to learn will carry you a long way. There are not many things in today’s world that can be built and/or maintained without the PVF industry.

What has been your proudest moment in your career so far?

Personally, my proudest moment in my career has been being able to get to the point I am today. Nothing has come easy, and I’m proud to say I worked very hard to get to this point. I oversee all purchasing and IT for a family-owned, multiple-location, soon-to-be third-generation company. I work for a phenomenal owner who puts his employees first, and I have coworkers who are like extended family.

In a world where independent wholesalers are disappearing, we are maintaining our position and growing with a bright future ahead. I’ve been able to take technology for our company and completely update and change the way we conduct business, and the speed at which we can do it. I’ve overhauled our software program, created an online & social media presence, as well as community engagement. So much has changed in twenty years, and it has passed in the blink of an eye, but I wouldn’t change a thing.

What is one thing most people don’t know about you?

Most people don’t know I strive for perfection. It is something that keeps me hungry and moving. I want to be perfect at what I do. Being in this industry isn’t “just another job” to me. This is in my blood, and I bleed our company colors. I want to succeed and be successful, so our entire team succeeds and is successful. Life, work, and everything in between are only what you make them. I want to make it perfect. “Perfection is not attainable, but if we chase perfection, we can catch excellence” – Vince Lombardi