We’re excited to welcome Ron Bouthillier to the Induron team! As our newest salesman from Medicine Hat, Alberta, Ron will focus on expanding both the Industrial Finishes and the oil and gas markets for Induron in Canada. Though Induron is not a recognized name in Canada right now, Ron is eager to support this new venture and promote Induron products in this territory. To learn a little more about Ron, check out this Q&A.
Q: How did you get your start in the protective coatings industry?
A: Not trying to date myself, however, I began selling paint in Chilliwack B.C. in 1986. I began as an assistant manager in a paint store. The challenges and constant learning have kept me in this business for many years. I was fortunate to work for companies that provided opportunity and training. Paint is a “hands-on” commodity, and it allows us to go get our hands dirty.
Q: What made you want to work for Induron?
A: Responding to a customer’s needs in a timely fashion with a solution is what drew me to Induron. Induron has that “family” feel, and the cooperation is unsurpassed. Likewise, the will and drive to succeed is evident. The history of a “third-generation” paint company speaks for itself. The genuine concern of resolving a customer’s coating need is seen. Induron values a customer.
Q: What’s your favorite part about working for Induron so far?
A: My favorite thing about Induron so far is the appetite to succeed. While there is much competition these days and many large companies, the smaller company is able to react and genuinely care about a customer. This is evident here.
Q: What’s your favorite part about what you do?
A: My favorite part of what I do is finding solutions to problems. Corrosion in North America is an epidemic problem costing billions of dollars. If we can provide a solution to mitigate this problem or extend the life of a valuable asset, this is a great reward.
Q: What’s the most challenging part about working in the protective coatings industry?
A: The most challenging part about my job so far is introducing a new company to a market that has not heard of Induron. However, this is only a temporary challenge and will be easy to overcome. A great company with superior products speak for itself.
Q: Are you seeing any new trends in the protective coatings industry?
A: Some of the new trends are for products that have lower VOC content and non-isocyanate products. Products that are safer for the environment and for the applicator are in demand.
Q: What has been the highlight or proudest moment of your career so far?
A: While working in Kelowna, the irrigation district installed 11 kilometers of 42-inch steel pipe underground. I was fortunate in selling the coatings for the inside and outside of this pipe, and it was a large project that spanned several months.
Q: What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
A: Some of the best advice that I have received is to, “Have integrity in all that we do.”
Q: What person has had the biggest influence on your life and why?
A: Outside of God, my parents had the greatest influence on my life. They helped prepare me to walk through some of the challenges that the world has to offer.
Q: If you could have dinner with any person living or dead, who would it be and why?
A: To have dinner with Jesus would be quite a thing. A person and deity righteous in every way.
Q: What is your favorite quote?
A: One of my favorite quotes would be, “What you sow is what you reap,” found in Galatians.
Q: Tell us a little about your family, pets and/or hobbies.
A: I love spending time outdoors, whether it’s skiing, swimming, biking or hiking. Camping is also a favorite especially when our children and grandchildren are involved. We have a 5-acre property that we are developing, planting trees etc. This provides us with a lot of fun.
Q: Where is your favorite place to be?
A: My favorite place to be is on a Caribbean Island or on a cruise ship.
Q: If you could do another job for just one day, what would it be?
A: If I could do a job for one day, I would be the Prime Minister of Canada—perhaps fix some of the economic shortfalls.