Age: 28
Company: P-M & Associates
Title: Outside sales representative
How long have you been in the PHCP-PVF industry?
TO: Three and a half years.
What drew you into the industry?
TO: The people. I grew up around manufacturing and transportation all my life, so I’ve always had a general interest in supply chain/manufacturing. I’ve also always been intrigued with construction, so it was a win-win opportunity as a manufacturers’ rep at P-M & Associates. Every day is a challenge, but every challenge presents an opportunity and having the right tools, team, and support to tackle those challenges really does make it fun and rewarding.
What is the most rewarding aspect of working in the industry?
TO: Providing solutions and working with great people. Our industry is full of people wanting to teach and help each other. Building relationships with customers, vendors, and other professionals throughout the industry is something I thoroughly enjoy. The value of these relationships has allowed me to contribute to projects and organizations not just here in Central Illinois, but all over the country. Hearing my friends and family excited to talk about and go see a new restaurant, school, or facility that we worked hard on from the ground up is very fulfilling.
What is one thing you wish more people knew/understood about the PHCP-PVF industry?
TO: There are so many different opportunities there are in this industry to make a long-lasting career. From manufacturers, reps, wholesalers, contractors and everyone in between, the opportunities are endless if you are willing to work hard.
What has been the proudest moment in your career so far?
TO: In sales, it is easy to look at conversions, large orders or financial wins as something to be proud of, but that’s our job. I’m proud of our team at P-M for working through the growth, development, transitions, acquisitions, and all other challenges that have presented themselves these past few years. We have long-term goals and work hard every day to attain those goals as a team. We’ve had some legends in the industry retire, we’ve hired so many new people and have grown over double in size as a company through unprecedented times these past few years. I’m proud to play an important role on our team and thankful the opportunities this has provided me to serve our industry, my colleagues, and my community.
What is one thing most people don’t know about you?
TO: Before changing my major to business administration, I went to college to study criminal justice with long-term plans of becoming a K-9 police officer. I absolutely love working dogs, especially my German Shorthaired Pointer named Dixie.
Why he was chosen as a Next Gen All Star Top 20 Under 40 winner:
“TJ is a relatively new, but enthusiastic contributor to the industry. He is passionate about building relationships with his customers and providing the kinds of service that create trusted partnerships. Additionally, TJ has demonstrated his conviction for the urgency of raising awareness and instilling knowledge in the next generation of young professionals. TJ has given selflessly of his time, knowledge and professional experience in support of ASA industry research,” says Beth Ladd, vice president, innovation, American Supply Association.
