Pub. 1 2019 Issue 6

impact, but we’re going to have to embrace technology and innovation to be successful. What is the biggest impact of being an NHADA member? What makes it beneficial? There are so many benefits. NHADA is a dominant player in our state, as well as across the country. We’re a force to be reckoned with. We have solid programs like our workers’ comp, insurance, safety monitoring, and train- ing. It’s all about helping us be better at what we do, and making it easier to do it. A few years ago, we opened up the member- ship to used car dealers, tractor dealers and repair shops. It not only made us a stron- ger organization, but we have added some broader industry perspectives. Are you involved in any civic or charitable organizations? We are involved in a lot of civic and charita- ble organizations, as are most dealers, quite frankly. We support the Boys & Girls Clubs, soup kitchens and homeless shelters, to name a few. All of our employees are encouraged to do something to give back. I want to say it’s part of our dealership culture. If you look back at your career and life, what would be three things that you have learned that youwould pass onto a youngermember within the auto industry? Well first, I would say to practice the “golden rule” in all aspects, personally and profes- sionally. Second, I have a lot of respect for our salespeople and our technicians, and that is something that I would want to pass along. Our salespeople and technicians come to work every Monday and go home every Friday with what they generated in income. These people drive the bus; the rest of us are just support people. And finally, if you are not willing to embrace technology, you will fail. This is a wonderful business. We employ a lot of people with well-pay- ing jobs. What are some professional moments that make you the proudest? I’m a stay in the background sort of guy. Certainly, this nomination is a big one. Over the years, we’ve achieved a lot of goals, but we did it because it’s what we do, not because of the accolades. Was there an “aha” moment in your career that defined you? That’s a tough question. It’s really about what drives any of us. As dealers, we take a lot of chances. We take on a lot of risks that may not just affect us but our families. For me, when a challenge was overcome, that was an “aha” moment. Likewise, failure was a learning “aha” moment. The truth is, I think life is a series of “aha” moments if you allow your- self to learn from your experiences. Having said that, there’s that underlying sentiment, “I hope I don’t die broke!” Describe your all-time favorite vehicle (it can be one you’ve owned or something on your wish list). What are you driving today? I am not a car buff. We all drive only what we sell, and I personally drive what’s practical at the time. Right now, I am driving a Jeep Grand Cherokee. My all-time favorite car, however, is whatever late model car I can put a family member or friend into that meets their needs and their bud- get and saves them money. What is your favorite way to spend your free time? Any unusual hobbies? I spend a lot of time with my family, play a little golf and love to fly. Tell us about your family. My wife Brigid and I have four kids, two sons, and two daughters. We have 12 grandchildren and recently a new great-grandchild. 11 N E W H A M P S H I R E