Our Connor Group associates are gritty, committed, and have a strong work ethic. These common traits set our people apart and allow us to achieve impossible goals. And quite often, our associates began learning valuable lessons and sharpening their work skills at a young age.
We recently asked high-achieving associates to share their very first job with Loop. Our “My first job” series continues in Tampa with senior lead tech Jimmy Stastny.
What was your very first job?
Storage shed field installer at Ted Sheds of Colorado.
What key skills do you use today that you learned from doing it?
I took drafting and construction technology classes in high school, so finding a construction-related job for the summer helped me continue my education outside of school.
What did the position teach you about the importance of work ethic, commitment, etc.?
It taught me the importance of being reliable to my team because if you called off, it meant you forced your team to work harder to get the job done with one man less. It also taught me great customer service skills. I learned to communicate with the client on the placement of the shed in their yard while making sure they were satisfied with the finished product.
Did you love it or hate it? If you had to, could you see yourself doing this job today?
I loved the job. It helped me realize I loved working with my hands and not being stuck in an office behind a computer like my parents wanted me to pursue.
How does the work compare to what you do today at TCG?
It’s very similar to what I do today. You constantly push yourself to do good work fast and keep our residents happy.
What’s the best piece of advice you received on the job? Is whoever gave you that advice still one of your mentors today?
My boss told me our team was only as good as our weakest link. It was our responsibility to help each other grow and learn every day. And push each other to be the best. The owners, Ted and Val, were like family to me. Ted is still like a father figure to me. His wife Val passed away from a battle with cancer. She’s the reason I grow my hair out. I grow it out and donate it to Locks of Love in her honor.
