FOUNDRY AND MAINTENANCE MANAGER, PLATTCO CORPORATION

Hometown: Charlestown, NH

Age: 36

As a young man Jarrod Clough knew he wanted a career in a foundry and his hard work and determination have made that happen. To move up in the industry Jarrod has moved around the country, working in Cincinnati, Ohio; Bettendorf, Iowa; Vancouver, Washington; Portland, Oregon, and since 2014 in Plattsburgh. He is experienced in ISO 9001 and has a 6-Sigma Black Belt.

Who are your favorite influencers?

My biggest influence and mentor has been my father. He was a foundryman his entire career starting from the floor and eventually becoming president of a foundry. I spent a lot of time watching and learning from his management technique which eventually shaped my own methods.

What are you doing to make a difference in your profession?

I decided to pursue a career in metal casting because I noticed there was, and still is, a serious age gap in the industry. Floor workers, supervisors and executives alike were retiring and leaving a large void of experience. I felt that if I stuck with it and really learned the business I would have unlimited opportunity. Now that I have had some success, my focus is always on trying to inspire younger people to get involved and learn the business.

What’s your biggest professional success?

Being the Vice President of Operations for a foundry at the age of 30.

How do you maintain a work/life balance?

Work is obviously necessary to live the life you want, but family is always my first priority. Every second that I’m not working is spent with my family.

What important lesson have you learned in your career?

Communication and accountability are the keys to smooth operations and employee morale. When goals are clear and achievable everyone wins.

What is something that no one would guess about you?

I was the vocalist in a metal band.

Write a note to your younger self…

Concentrate on experiences not things. Take risks and keep going.