As Great River Industries (GRI) recently expanded from an ASME fabrication shop to a full-service construction firm, the Natchez, Mississippi-based company’s leaders quickly learned the field construction side of its business needed executive sponsorship. They offered the position to Aaron Shermer, who credits his success as vice president of GRI to his 22 years of industry experience as well as his transparent leadership style. BIC Magazine recently visited with Shermer to discuss why he believes his company is poised to make a significant impact on the industry.
Q: What led to your position at GRI?
A: A few years ago, our team decided to expand our services from being primarily an ASME fabrication shop to being a full-service construction firm. We not only fabricate ASME equipment but install it as well. We call our process GRI’s “360 Solution” because we look at your fabrication project from every angle, including constructability, to assure your project is a success.
We believe this strategy offers our customers a unique advantage for true turnkey installations. The truth is a great corporate vision was turned into reality, and I was able to step into a position in April 2012 and utilize my 22 years of experience.
Q: What is the biggest news at GRI right now?
A: We are excited about the petrochemical/refining and pulp/paper opportunities we are becoming a part of. Recently, we’ve expanded into field construction as well as plant maintenance. We want to continue growth and market share in that space.
Our plant maintenance services are already growing at a rapid pace. Our reaction time to customers’ emergency needs keeps their downtime minimized and ensures they are back online as soon as possible. In most cases, we can have a crew mobilized within 24 hours, ready to tackle most issues. And we do this with the highest level of safety.
Q: What is the most important part of your position?
A: It’s employee relationship management. I’m a transparent leader. Bad news is not like wine; it doesn’t get better with time. Being truthful about issues as soon as they are identified creates trust, even when you’ve made a mistake.
I believe each functional department needs a very clear vision of our overall company goals so they understand how they fit in the big picture. The personal side of management is often overlooked, but in my opinion nets the best results for long-term career building at any company.
Q: How do you plan to address changes in the workforce?
A: The workforce issues in the market are always top of mind. We employ highly experienced craftsmen who could work for any company. Our strategy in workforce retention is in our safety. In our region, wages are similar and per-diems are equal across companies. We set ourselves apart by providing the safest work sites where employees can stand up for their personal safety and the safety of their co-workers. We provide the safest site so our employees will have no reason to leave.
Q: What is one thing people might not know about you?
A: My wife and two daughters are the backbone of who I am. I have a full-size Winnie the Pooh suit, and I am not afraid to use it.
For more information, visit www.greativer360.com or call (601) 442-7568.
