|
 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. |
