Craig Callison, Tradeshow Coordinator, Rittal North America, LLC
We build our corporate culture on team spirit and this would not be possible if we did not put importance on building long-term relationships with our team. It is because of our talented team that we have seen continuous growth and will continue with a bright future. Our team is #RittalResilient #RittalStrong and together, We are Rittal!
Introduction
Craig was born and raised in Champaign County, Ohio. He began his career at Rittal when he was 19 years old to work on the paint line in the factory. Since then Craig has held various roles in the factory and the Marketing department. He is currently responsible for tradeshows, mobile showrooms, and our regional showrooms based in Houston, Schaumburg and Urbana. Craig loves spending time with his wife of 27 years, three children and four grandchildren.
Question and Answers
Q: What has been a significant highlight of working at Rittal?
- The people. My job is very unique in that I have the opportunity to work with so many people in various parts of the company. I've been blessed to work with some amazing individuals and teams here at Rittal which has benefitted me tremendously.
Q: What’s the coolest project you’re currently working on?
- New TS IT rows in the Houston and Urbana showrooms. Love the technical challenges the IT products provide.
Q: Who/what inspires you?
- Two things I guess. People, especially my Father and my Wife. Second would be traveling. I didn't travel much growing up and this job has let me travel the country (all but 3 states) and see some amazing things. Most of the vacations we take as a family were inspired by work trips.
Q: Do you have any advice for new hires?
- Look for internal job opportunities to learn and find something you enjoy. The more you learn and experience, the more valuable you become to the company.
Q: What does true leadership mean to you?
- Leading by example, trusting your team, listening to those you work with and being open to change and new ideas.
Q: What was the last experience that made you a stronger person?
- I think it's going on right now with the COVID pandemic. It's touched every aspect of my normal work and personal life. COVID has made me slow down and realize how simple life really is and how much we tend to complicate things.
Q: How do you balance your career and family?
- The work trips while my children were young was challenging. Missed many birthdays and anniversaries. On the plus side, being away from home makes you appreciate coming home. I've travelled just about everywhere, but home is my favorite place!
Q: What is the proudest moment in your professional career? Your personal life?
- Professionally - The Rittal Mobile Design Center bus (MDC). Being in charge of that project from the ground up and seeing the success it had for so many years was very satisfying.
- Personally - Watching the kids start to graduate college and start their own lives.
Q: What do you do for fun?
- I enjoy fishing for trout and smallmouth bass on the Mad and Miami Rivers as well as hiking and taking road trips with my family.
Q: What is your favorite childhood memory?
- Family vacations in Maine.
Q: What is the best vacation you’ve ever had?
- Trip to England, Ireland and Scotland for my wife and I to celebrate our 25th anniversary.