I’m a 40-something, married father of 3 living in the LA area.
My experience and business abilities come from 25 years of both formal education and “real-world” education running my own companies…
I hold BS in Electrical Engineering and an MBA – 7 years of higher education was actually the funnest time in my life, although looking back, it was also a lot of work. I think what I learned, most of all, was how to learn, how to organize, how to meet deadlines, how to handle pressure, and how to get things accomplished. It’s also one my greatest sources of pride and accomplishment.
After college, I did spend about 4 years working in corporate – a real drag. But, since 1995, I’ve always made it on my own. I quit corporate 15 years ago and have owned my own business ever since. At this point, I can’t ever imagine going back – I know I never will.
All of my previous companies have been in the construction industry – I owned and operated a painting company (SCV Painting Co.) ; I owned and operated Caddis Corporation (a masonry company). Where I finally stuck my claim in the industry, though, was as a roofing contractor. That business, which I still own and operate (Ferguson & Melvin Co.), has provided me a wealth of knowledge about how to succeed in business. It’s been a great experience and has allowed me the freedom to pursue many other things that I really enjoy doing…
Golf is one of my passions – ok, so I’m no Tiger Woods, but a 13 handicap isn’t all that bad. I coach and referree soccer for my kids – I think this kind of stuff helps keep you young. Working around the house, building, and construction is a passion of both my wife and I. You should have seen our house about 4 years ago – what a disaster – we added about 1000 sqft. -our 2 girls were sleeping in the living room and, of course, my wife was pregnant at the time. Try that out some time (on second thought, you better not).
Marketing has become another passion of mine. I started working online in 2002, doing affiliate marketing, direct marketing, and MLM. More recently, I started blogging and offering training and coaching to others on how to succeed from home. I’ve always wanted to be teacher – I don’t know… I always had a great time in school and it seemed like my teachers did too. So, until I decide to go get credentialed and apply at the college next door, why not teach online?
I think I’m pretty down to earth and easy to talk to.
So, if you’re interested in talking to me about personal coaching or consulting for your own business, or if you’d like to discuss any joint-venture projects, e-mail me at tom@tommelvin.com.
