LTL 049: Journey From Work Site To Corner Office: An Interview With Tom Jackson Part One

Tom Jackson is the President of Steel Encounters, Inc (SEI). SEI is a specialty contractor and structural steel supplier headquartered in Salt Lake City, Utah, with annual revenues exceeding $100 million. Tom has 35 years of construction industry experience. He has filled many roles from job site worker, up the ranks through the field and operations to President. His journey from the work site to the corner office is inspiring.

Tom’s company has clad many prestigious buildings with glass and metal panels throughout Salt Lake City, including the 111 Main office tower, Eccles Performing Arts Center, 222 South Main, City Creek development’s glass bridge over Main Street, and the Regent and Promontory high rise condominiums. Check them out on the company’s website – they are gorgeous.

Tom focuses much of his time on leadership development, safety and quality assurance programs, and employee engagement, which provides great synergy within the organization. He credits his team for Steel Encounters’ success and building a brand of delivering outstanding services, performance, and exceptional craftsmanship to his customers.

Tom’s Tips And Key Learnings:

• Work hard and distinguish yourself from others
• Listen to criticism then act – don’t waste time sulking
• Don’t panic when you don’t have clarity, but determine how you are going to get it
• You don’t have to go to college to learn about business – find a good entrepreneur and go to work for them
• Don’t expect short days when you go into business for yourself
• There’s risk to owning your own business
• Learn to save and don’t overextend yourself or your business
• Determine to ALWAYS DO THE RIGHT THING – this makes for great customer relationships
• Attitude is everything – and this is true for everyone in the company – be a cheerful, hard worker
• A lack of experience doesn’t have to be a disadvantage if you are willing to work hard and learn
• Education isn’t free – either in college or in a trade
• Find a mentor – we all have something to learn from those who have gone before us
• Be direct and do this with genuine care and concern

Resources Mentioned In This Episode:

Steel Encounters, Inc. website

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