Emerging Leaders Learn From Experts, Each Other

Playing an integral part in the family business can be challenging. Carving out one’s place in the family business is not always an easy task. The goal of yesterday’s Emerging leaders program was to provide a forum where attendees could hear from the experts. Developing leadership and management skills to grow the business were at the top of the agenda, with attendees eager to both learn from and share with each other.

Dave Scaturro of Alpine Painting & Sandblasting Contractors, Emerging Leaders Committee Chairman, welcomed attendees, remarking on the geographical diversity and talent in the audience. “We encourage you to keep an open mind as you listen to the speakers,” he said. “We also hope you will share your knowledge and fresh ideas.”

As attendees introduced themselves, it was apparent that their backgrounds were quite different. Some had started as soon as they could hold a paint brush, working their way up the company ladder, and were already in management roles. Others had returned to begin learning the business after college or pursuing other career paths. Regardless of whether they were in the commercial, industrial or residential sector, holding positions in operations, estimating, project management or sales, attendees were eager to learn.

Also in the audience were industry veterans eager to hear what the next generation had to say and new ideas they would be discussing. They also encouraged attendees to get involved in either PDCA or SSPC, learn about new products and pursue accreditation programs.

The program offered not only speaker presentations but roundtable discussion led by other young leaders eager to share their knowledge on topics such as employee management, project management and risk management. The day wrapped up with Beer and Bull, an opportunity to share ideas in a more relaxed atmosphere and meeting past Emerging Leaders attendees.

An annual highlight of the PACE program, Emerging Leaders will also appear on the SSPC agenda at Green COAT 2010, SSPC’s new industry event. Sam Scaturro, also with Alpine Painting, said the program will continue in Las Vegas for the Industrial contractor segment.