In this edition of Pillars of Ideal, we highlight the career of Paul Blanchett, Site Lead of GM Milford Proving Ground.
Starting out as a carpenter, Paul learned early on the fulfillment of working in the construction industry. As he moved up the career ladder, Paul was exposed to more opportunities and, thus, more responsibility. Having been with Ideal Contracting for 25 years, Paul has made an immeasurable impact on our company. From the mentorship of countless team members to continuously supporting our customer relations, Paul has demonstrated time and time again that he is a Pillar of Ideal.
How long have you been with Ideal Contracting? Talk about what it has been like to see the company grow over the years.
Well, I’ve been with Ideal, it’s been over 25 years now. I don’t know the exact start date because it was so long ago, but 25 years for sure. When I started, there was five of us. Getting in (Ideal Contracting) on the ground floor and watching this grow, I think that’s something really special.
What was your childhood like?
I’m from Monroe and that’s where I grew up and still live today, so I’ve been there lifelong. It was farm life when we were young, so that was kind of neat. You know, tractors and trucks, and on the other side of my family, my grandparents who live in Carleton farmed vegetables. We would go out there, my brother and I, and we would help them harvest. We would go to the Eastern Market at four in the morning with truckloads of vegetables and would sell those vegetables.
How did growing up on a farm help shape you?
I think it created such a good work ethic that I think helped me through my career.
What was your experience like starting out as a carpenter in the construction industry?
Carpentry just came along, I was made an offer to become a carpenter, but I didn’t dream to be a carpenter or anything like that. It’s just that this guy was hiring and asked me if I wanted to be a carpenter. I’m like, “Wow, that sounds interesting. I’m not going to farm my whole life.” So, I went that route. I just kind of took that and kept working hard and kept moving up the ladder, and that’s what got me where I am today.
What is one thing from your career in construction that you are most proud of?
I manage all these different sites, you know. (Ideal’s) upper management has come out to visit our sites, and they kind of let me steer my own ship. They’ll come out and they won’t tell me, “Hey, turn left” or, “Hey, slow down.” They just let me do my own thing, and I think that’s really cool. It actually kind of motivates you to want to do your best. I’ve worn a lot of different hats for sure over the years. It’s that whatever it takes attitude that allows leadership to say, “just go do what you do, Paul.” It’s because things work.
Being with Ideal Contracting for 25 years, I am pretty proud of that. I think loyalty is a very important trait. I’ve had other opportunities throughout the years, but why would you make a move or do something when you’re being treated so well and so well respected where you’re at?
