Chuck Goodrich

Chuck Goodrich has had a remarkable career as the President of Gaylor Electric, a leading merit-shop electrical contractor in the Midwest region. With over 30 years of experience in the industry, Mr. Goodrich started his journey in 1991 as a young intern with Gaylor Electric, where he learned the ropes of the electrical trade through hands-on field experience. Over the years, Goodrich held various leadership positions within Gaylor Electric until being named President & CEO in November 2014. His leadership has propelled Gaylor Electric to new heights, cementing its position as one of the industry’s most respected and trusted electrical contractors. In addition to his accomplishments at Gaylor Electric, Goodrich’s political career is also noteworthy. Currently serving in the Indiana House of Representatives, Goodrich has authored/co-authored several bills that have been signed into law, making him one of the most effective legislators in the state.
Throughout his successful career, Chuck Goodrich has become well-known for his professional leadership and passion for supporting education and entrepreneurship. He has been recognized for his incredible achievements by winning several prestigious awards, including the James J. Leonard Memorial Award, Noblesville Businessperson of the Year, Associated Builders and Contractors Outstanding Member Award, and the Gaylor Electric Optimist Award. Beyond his impressive accolades, Goodrich also gives back to the community by opening Gaylor Electric’s doors to “The Crossing School of Business & Entrepreneurship,” a program that helps high school students develop the skills they need to succeed in business. By supporting the next generation of leaders, Goodrich is truly making a positive difference in the world.

What is your typical day, and how do you make it productive?

Individual discussions with members of my executive team at Gaylor Electric on pressing issues of the day and week. Making sure we all are within the white lines of our business plan. This gives me confidence the company is staying on the right track. While in session, I have daily check in with the experts on the laws within our state to again assure I am staying on the right track.

How do you bring ideas to life?

Think it, visualize it working, talk to people I trust and give honest feedback, if necessary, adjust, then take action.

What’s one trend that excites you?

Innovation and technology in the construction industry that helps increase a safe environment for the worker. When we can manufacture installations in a dry, clean, environment, then transport to install this saves time, money, and puts workers in a safer situation.

What is one habit that helps you be productive?

Operate with the mindset of W.I.N – What’s Important Now. Put 100% into what I am doing at that moment…then move on to the next item with the same focus.

What advice would you give your younger self?

Have a short memory [don’t hold on to negatives] and always look forward!

Tell us something you believe that almost nobody agrees with you on?

My structure of Gaylor Electric…developing a large organization into small units that stay like-minded, connected, and productive. This is non-traditional in construction but is by far the most effective way to grow people into maximizing their abilities.

What is the one thing you repeatedly do and recommend everyone else do?

Be faithful to having a specific prayer life that results in discernment and wisdom.

When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused, what do you do?

I have been blessed to have a group of mentors for different areas of my life…they are who I reach out to for guidance, encouragement, and at times, just an open ear to listen to me.

What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business or advance in your career?

I run Gaylor Electric and my political campaign on the principle of People First – Life is best lived when providing opportunity for others is an uncompromising strategy in my daily life.

What is one failure in your career,  how did you overcome it, and what lessons did you take away from it?

During the 2009-10 recession as a company, we did not maintain the close relationship with our vendors. I had turned over that responsibility to too many who valued relationships based on the transactional part and not the importance of viewing our vendors from a partner-relationship. Though I was able to salvage many, some have never been the same.

What is one business idea you’re willing to give away to our readers?

Be an active learner…The greatest obstacle to discovery is not ignorance—it the illusion of knowledge.

What is one piece of software that helps you be productive? How do you use it?

Tableau, It provides a platform for our ability to dashboard our progress on projects, in departments, and how the company is doing on an overall basis.

Do you have a favorite book or podcast you’ve gotten a ton of value from and why?

The works of both Stephen Covey and his son Stephen MR Covey.

What’s a movie or series you recently enjoyed and why?

The Master’s golf tournament…the concentration and the habits followed on every shot. Making each shot meaningful and moving them toward a successful completion.

Key learnings

• Be an active learner…The greatest obstacle to discovery is not ignorance—it the illusion of knowledge.
• Life is best lived when providing opportunity for others is an uncompromising strategy in my daily life.
• Develop a large organization into small units that stay like-minded, connected, and productive.