One Step Back… Two Steps Forward
In this episode of Concrete Careers’ The Blueprint: Success Built Through Perseverance, hosted by Concrete Careers CEO, T.J. Crosby, our own Ron Carlson, Senior Vice President, Industry Advisor, shares his unique journey from working as a correctional officer to becoming a quality control leader in the concrete industry. His story highlights how setbacks can create opportunities – and how perseverance, mentorship, and adaptability can shape a fulfilling career.
Ron talks candidly about the challenges he faced along the way, including navigating the COVID-19 pandemic, and the lessons he’s learned from mentors who influenced his leadership style. He emphasizes the importance of collaboration, the value of starting from any position to learn the business, and the role technology will play in shaping the industry’s future.
Highlights from the conversation:
- Career Beginnings: An unconventional path from corrections to concrete, proving that determination and openness to learning can lead anywhere.
- Mentorship Matters: Great mentors shaped Ron’s management approach and reinforced the importance of leading with empathy.
- Overcoming Challenges: The pandemic tested resilience, underscoring the need for adaptability and teamwork.
- Industry Hurdles: Hiring and retention remain pressing issues across the concrete sector.
- Future Focus: Technology is transforming recruitment and operations, offering new tools to build stronger teams.
- Advice for Young Professionals: Don’t wait for the “perfect” entry point — every role is an opportunity to gain experience and grow.
This episode is both inspirational and practical, offering insights for anyone at the start of their career or those stepping into leadership roles. Ron’s story is a powerful reminder that sometimes taking a step back is exactly what’s needed to move forward.
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