Rick Baron, Project Manager at Al Terry Plumbing & Heating

Rick Baron is a terrible bowler. It’s important for you to know that because, by the end of this article, you’ll be asking yourself if there’s anything he can’t do. His motley inventory of accomplishments includes organizing and assisting on four separate, short-term mission trips to serve impoverished communities in the Dominican Republic, selling over 300 Harley Davidsons and running a successful eBay business to help pay for his Bachelor’s degree in Business Studies, and renovating his entire house, including the plumbing, heating and electrical systems, just to name a few.

As a Project Manager at Al Terry Plumbing & Heating, Rick is a third-generation plumber/pipefitter and an avid proponent of the trades. He is passionate about spreading his professional knowledge and using his success to encourage young craft professionals. In the evenings, he serves as a craft instructor, teaching the level 2 NH plumbing apprentice program at the New Hampshire School of Mechanical Trades. At home, he conducts “Daddy Trade School”, teaching his three young children to use tools safely and properly. Rick never misses an opportunity to act as a positive influence for young people. He volunteers his time to coaching t-ball and soccer teams, and to serving on the Education Committee of the ABC Young Professionals Group Steering Committee.

Step into Rick’s home or office and you’ll find whiteboard after whiteboard documenting his fervent goal-tracking and diligent list-making. It’s as though Rick was born with an inherent understanding of the term ‘focus’: a word with Latin roots translating to altar, hearth, fireplace, home, family. When asked about his extraordinary focus and drive, Rick is quick to assert that his motivations are born out of values surrounding faith and family. His approach to relationships in the construction world is centered on family values of respecting, appreciating, and honoring mentors; promoting fun and healthy conflict; and always encouraging and advocating for those pursuing a career in the construction industry, the trades family.

When asked what advice he offers to young craft professionals, Rick readily provides a list of principles. He encourages young workers to remember that relationships matter and advises them to conduct work with a healthy “chip on their shoulder.” To Rick, that means operating like you must prove your value every day, resetting to “Zero” status on Monday so you can reach “Hero” status by Friday. He also counsels young craft professionals to protect their financial security to allow more freedom in choosing a career path, and to build a personal brand in the industry by getting involved and creating a positive and dedicated name for yourself. Clearly, these are principles that Rick has employed in his own life, and which have led him to success. In all things except bowling, that is.

Rick’s story was provided by the Associated Builders and Contractors NH/VT Chapter Young Professionals Group. Founded in 2012 as an initiative of the Associated Builders and Contractors, NH/VT Chapter, the ABC YPG’s mission is to develop, empower, and connect young professionals through events in an effort to enhance their professional development and business success within the construction industry.