One thing that Mitch Ross, Trumbull-Nelson’s Millwork Shop Foreman, has always enjoyed is the great outdoors. In fact, before the desire to ‘turn wood’ entered his conscious thoughts, he was learning the ropes (literally and figuratively) of a separate and quite distinct activity; outdoor leadership training. It was a time in his life when he not only learned about outdoor living and survival techniques, but also about his own internal strengths and leadership qualities. Winter camping in Yellowstone National Park can do this for you!

Although Mitch once considered ways that he could develop a passion for the outdoors into a business and career opportunity, he felt that the economics would not work for him at the time. Instead, he decided to pursue studies in architecture and business management, and subsequently found work with a smaller, design/build organization. Here, he split his time between office and field work (he preferred the field!). After a few years involvement in the design/build arena and as a carpenter in the field, Mitch moved his career in the direction of Millwork, joining Trumbull-Nelson and eventually serving as a Shop employee, and later as Millwork Shop Foreman.

“If we continually improve the Millwork process in a given task, we can reduce our cost each time we perform that task.”

There’s plenty that keeps Mitch busy these days. The Shop recently completed two of its larger projects –– custom casework and trims for both the Howe Library and Dartmouth’s Corey Ford Rugby Clubhouse. One thing that is a vestige of his outdoor leadership training experience is an attitude that says, “no matter what project item is required.....we’re able to build it!”

Fortunately for Mitch, he is surrounded by like-minded, talented craftsmen.

Mitch is focused on continuous improvement in all Shop activities. His goal is to eliminate any physical bottlenecks, improve the flow of materials, and upgrade equipment. “If we continually improve the Millwork process in a given task, we can reduce our cost each time we perform that task.”

Anyone familiar with Mitch is aware of his love of boats. In fact, he recently developed a specialized trailer for Laser sailboats. Mitch is also an avid skier, serving on the volunteer ski patrol at such areas as Whaleback and Quechee Lakes. He indicates that these efforts have allowed him to maintain his ‘first-aid’ skills.

Of course, family is a primary focus for Mitch. He, and his wife of 25 years, Cathy, recently celebrated their milestone anniversary with a visit to Cozumel. Their two sons, Chris and Michael (boating experts in their own right) are active young men pursuing advanced education and as much skiing and sailing as possible.

Mitch knows a good deal about team work (“goes without saying…”) and how to be a leader. Just as he was willing to accept and overcome challenges unique to the great outdoors during an earlier time in his life, he now views work challenges as temporary obstacles in the overall process of developing solutions. This is the sort of philosophy that makes Mitch a valued Trumbull-Nelson employee. We’re glad to have him leading the way in the Millwork Shop.