Welcome back to Verify In Field: The Millwork Podcast! In this episode, we have the pleasure of sitting down with the incredible Doug Hague, CEO of AWI, to discuss his remarkable journey in the millwork industry. From starting as an intern to becoming an estimator, salesman, project manager, and AutoCAD draftsman, Doug’s path is filled with valuable experiences and insights. Join us as we delve into topics such as the importance of investing in talent and nurturing passion, the future of the industry with innovative technology, the power of building a strong company culture, and the significance of sharing stories to inspire and support others. So, grab your headphones and let’s dive in!

About Our Guest:

Doug Hague’s journey to becoming the CEO of AWI is a unique and unexpected one. His passion for woodworking began at a young age, where he spent his time hammering nails and building things in his yard. Through his involvement in 4-H and high school shop class, he developed a strong foundation in woodworking skills. Doug’s love for CAD and design also became apparent during his studies in college. It was during his interactions with customers outside of technology that he realized the importance of manual drafting skills and being able to convey ideas in the moment. After initially pursuing a chemistry major, Doug switched to becoming an industrial arts teacher and eventually found his calling as a Wood Tech major at Pittsburgh State University. This newfound passion made his studies enjoyable and he excelled in his courses. Doug’s journey showcases the importance of finding one’s true passion and pursuing it wholeheartedly.

Listen to the Full Episode:

Key Takeaways:

In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, the heart of a company lies not just in its products or services but in its culture. The way a company treats its employees, the values it upholds, and the environment it fosters play a pivotal role in its success. But what exactly is company culture, and why is it so crucial?

Understanding Company Culture

Company culture is the personality of an organization. It’s a shared set of workplace beliefs, values, attitudes, standards, purposes, and behaviors. It reflects both the written and unwritten rules that people in an organization follow. In essence, it’s about how things get done in the workplace.

The Power of Intentionality and Consistency

As Doug Hague aptly puts it, two pivotal words define a company’s culture: “intentionality” and “consistency.” A company’s culture is shaped by the intention behind its actions and the consistency in its behavior. If someone is consistently a jerk, then that’s their culture. The challenge lies in being intentional about the culture you want to create and then consistently embodying it.

The Role of Technology in Shaping Culture

The woodworking industry, like many others, has witnessed significant technological advancements. From the invention of the pin router to the rise of CNC machines, technology has always played a role. However, it’s essential to view these innovations as tools to reallocate resources rather than replace them.

Why Company Culture Matters

• Employee Engagement: A strong company culture indicates that people are the priority, not just output or revenue. Higher engagement and productivity are direct benefits of a robust culture.
• Innovation: A culture that fosters creativity and innovation can set a company apart from its competitors.
• Retention: A positive company culture can attract top talent and ensure lower turnover rates.

Navigating Challenges with a Strong Culture

In an era where industries are rapidly evolving, and competition is fierce, a strong, positive company culture can be the differentiating factor that attracts and retains talent. As Jacob emphasizes, understanding and acknowledging the perceptions of employees and the public about a company is crucial. If employees voice concerns about the company’s culture, it’s essential to address them rather than dismiss them.

Conclusion

While challenges are inevitable in any industry, the key to navigating them successfully lies in fostering a culture of intentionality, consistency, and innovation. As the conversation between Jacob and Doug underscores, while technology and innovation are vital, the true essence of a company lies in its culture.

Resources:

• Jacob Edmond: LinkedIn
• Doug Hague: LinkedIn
• AWI website: awinet.org

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