ABC Young Professionals Spotlight: Rick Baron
The Al Terry plumber/pipefitter works to spread the word about the trades
Editor’s note: This is part of a series of monthly articles highlighting a member of the Associated Builders and Contractors NH/VT’s Young Professionals Group.
Rick Baron
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 – among others.
A project manager at Al Terry Plumbing & Heating, Baron 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 tradesmen.
In the evenings, he serves as a trade school instructor, teaching the Level 2 New Hampshire 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.
He also volunteers his time to coaching T-ball and soccer teams and serves on the education committee of the ABC Young Professionals Group steering committee.
When asked about his extraordinary focus and drive, Baron said 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, he said.
As for what advice he offers young trades workers, he provided a list of principles. He encourages young trades workers to remember that relationships matter and advises them to conduct work with a healthy “chip on their shoulder.” To Baron, 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 trades workers 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.
Founded in 2012 as an initiative of the Associated Builders and Contractors NH/VT, the ABC Young Professionals Group’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. ABC YPG seeks to contribute to efforts to attract, develop and retain a skilled workforce by providing opportunities for professional development to young workers.
