Paul Larsgaard
- Senior Materials & Services Analyst
- Sound Transit
School Information
School: Western Washington University
College Major: Business
Years at College Works: 2011
Career Information
Working For: Sound Transit
Title: Senior Materials & Services Analyst
Industry: TransportationWhat Has Been Your Proudest Accomplishment Post-CWP?
Building from scratch a warehouse, inventory control systems, shipping methods and launching a company with 30 other devoted people.
College Works Career Impact
In one sentence, what has CW meant to you?
My experience in College Works Painting strengthened my work ethic and provided me with one of the best years I spent in Bellingham.
How did your CW experience impact your career? Immediately after graduation? Now?
Since graduation I have worked for two start up food production companies (Sahale Snacks, Db3 Corp), this has meant many 50 to 60 hour work weeks with strenuous internal demands as well as customer demands. Quite honestly, it is not as stressful as having to run a painting business. My experience in College Works Painting gave me the confidence that I could accomplish demanding tasks while working in manufacturing. Painting homes allowed me to develop a strong sense for customer service as well as crisis management. When I am interviewed for job positions I always spend the most time talking about College Works Painting.
What was the greatest lesson you learned from your CW experience?
The greatest lesson learned from my College Works Painting experience was to work smarter not harder.
Advice
What advice do you have for potential CW participants? Current CW participants?
Potential College Works Painting participants – Don’t hesitate! College Works Painting is a great way to learn multiple aspects of business. It helped me choose my major (Manufacturing & Supply Chain Management) which has resulted in two amazing positions in food manufacturing. Current College Works Painting managers – Be relentless. Make the most of this experience. Treat your painters well.
What’s your best advice for someone interested in entering your career field?
I would advise them to gain practical experience in whatever avenues of manufacturing they intend to pursue. Internships are invaluable and I suggest everyone do at least two while in school.
What’s your favorite memory from CW?
Interacting with several of my clients, learning about their lives.