Like Father, Like Leader

I am a proud father of six precious children. My hope for each of them is that, through their chosen career paths, they have the opportunity to become all they are meant to be.

I am a proud leader of 7,000 people within the Barry-Wehmiller organization. My hope for each of them is the same: They have the opportunity to become all they are meant to be.

Every single one of those 7,000 is someone’s precious child who simply desires — and deserves — the opportunity to flourish. Leadership calls us to be stewards of the precious lives entrusted to us every day. When they join us in pursuit of our shared vision, isn’t it our duty — our profound responsibility — to provide the care and nurturing needed to bring out their gifts and talents?

Recently, I received a note from the father of one of our engineers. The young man had been recognized by his peers for his leadership and awarded our prestigious Guiding Principles of Leadership SSR award. His father participated in the surprise celebration and sent this afterward:

I’m texting to tell you how proud I am of the company my son works for. I have always tried to teach him the proper work ethic and told him of the rewards it could bring. Some people want everything without working for it and they get disgusted when good things don’t happen. You and your company make me wish I could come back to work again, but being retired I can’t do that. What I can do is praise a company such as yours for giving my son the opportunity to show you what he is made of. 

Thanks,

A grateful and proud father

Are you bringing out the best in those you lead? Are you leading in the same manner you would want your children to be led?