What is your vision for Knoxville 10 years from now?
I would like to see Knoxville continue to grow and think like a big city but keep the charm of a small city. As the growth continues with new Forbes top companies it’s important to continue to shepherd those that we currently have. While we grow and incentivize new companies with tax breaks this should equal money and grants from those companies for those in need for future education/opportunities for advancement while keeping a strong focus on Inclusion and diversity.
What is Knoxville's best kept secret?
Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness is the best kept secret catering to the entire family for fun and adventure.
What would you do to strengthen Knoxville?
Find the best practiced cities such as Chattanooga, TN, San Antonio, TX, Greenville, SC, etc., who have expanded their downtown riverfront and made it thrive. Also, create a care for your neighbors and business colleagues rather than political party affiliation drawing a line.
What is your favorite Knoxville memory?
I’m a sports enthusiast so my favorite memories in Knoxville have evolved around sports. Being a part of personally training some of UT’s greatest teams and then watching them win National Championships and being included have been very rewarding and memorable.
What is your favorite book or what book is currently on your nightstand?
Currently on my nightstand is Get a Grip
What is the best advice you have received from a mentor, and who was that mentor?
I have had the fortune to have multiple mentors through the years of growing Performance Training, Inc., but two that stand out to me are Pat Summitt and George Sampson. Pat Summitt always said there is no “I” in TEAM and it’s all about teamwork and not about “YOU”! George Sampson once told me not to tag one employee’s mistake onto all employees. He said give all employees opportunities and teach / allow them to grow and not limit them by the mistakes others made. I always strive to be better as a leader in my company and evaluate myself to be sure I am continually growing my abilities along with my leadership team so we can all grow as one.
What advice would you give to your 16 year old self?
Stay focused on what is important to you and persevere through all that is thrown at you. Find those you want to emulate and have the confidence to do so.
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