The following content is part of the Interstates Culture Series, a writing collection explaining how Interstates' core company values were uncovered and what they mean to us. These posts from our leaders spotlight the culture at Interstates and share what it’s like to work within our organization, focusing on our values of Dependability, Integrity, Trust, Quality, and Family. Learn about our journey developing these values here.
What does integrity mean to me? It's hard to know where to start. It's such a vital part of our existence. It's not a stretch for me to say this core value is the thread that weaves part of Interstates' fabric. Without the core values, Interstates doesn't exist. That said, having personal integrity is an absolute requirement for thriving in the Interstates Family as well. It's just simply doing the right and honorable thing all the time, no matter what the situation is.
As a young electrician, I had the great luck of working with people whose integrity was unshakable. These people were role models and created a solid foundation of reliability and wisdom for me. We had jobs of all shapes and sizes. Some were difficult and loaded with shutdowns, and inevitably there would be points where a tough decision had to be made. Maybe you can relate when you've had to make hard calls with a lot on the line and time running short. When a situation was complicated, I could call in those role models, talk things through, and get my composure back. Then I could go forward to make the right decision. Trusting the integrity of those leaders helped me to consider every angle and have confidence during tough times.
Within the integrity instilled in Interstates' culture, the one facet I believe that has served us best over the years is the trait of humility. Interstates teams aren't scared to ask for help. They have faith in knowing the people that get asked to help will have their backs, and accordingly, they will do the same if they're asked.
I have never known a time when the willingness to help each other and our clients has diminished at Interstates.
Through an internal structure change and the craziness of 2020, the integrity of Interstates' culture will be relied upon even more. Leading The Interstates Way is part of who the company is, and it provides a guidepost for the future. As you enter into 2021, trust your instincts as you face future challenges. Ask yourself, are you leading with integrity?
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Randy Noecker, Project Manager
Want to see more on how integrity looks at Interstates? Check out this article.
Dependability | Integrity | Trust | Quality | Family
