40th Anniversary: A Lifetime at MCN

by Paul Deffenbaugh | 3 August 2020 12:00 am

In today’s world, it is not even a thought for people in their 40s or 50s to start new chapters in life or make major career changes. By no means am I saying it’s easy to do. Really nothing is no matter what age. But back in the late ‘70s and early ‘80s, it had to have been quite daunting.

Just five years earlier, our country had ended a decades-long war. Culturally, the country was in a bit of turmoil, globally we were seeing violent revolutions spur, there were hostage situations, an energy crisis and looming recessions. Not to mention the high interest rates. A lot of that sounds familiar today, except for the high interest rates, of course.

But back then, all of that was new and unprecedented, and people like my father and Sam had all of that on their minds. What did they do? Well, they forged ahead. They did what they had to do to bring their dreams and goals to fruition. It wasn’t easy, but they managed to pull things through and, as they say, the rest is history.

Looking back, I think it’s safe to say that the apple doesn’t fall far from history. When my father retired from day-to-day operations at the end of 2008, I took the helm at the beginning of what many say was the worst economic disaster since the Great Depression. It was a few months after getting married, and all I could think to myself was, “Gee, thanks, Pop. The timing couldn’t be better.” It was truly a trial by fire. However, we made it through when others did not. We forged ahead, steadfast in our convictions and the strong belief in what we do. Now, I feel grateful that I went through that experience when I did.

Last year I turned 40, and a week later my wife and I welcomed our first child and son, Giacomo. Like any new father, I was on top of the world. I felt reborn myself. Like many of you, I was looking forward to 2020 with the anticipation and the excitement of promise of any new year. I would see my boy take his first steps, and last, but certainly not least, we would celebrate the 40th anniversary of Metal Construction News.

Fast forward a few months, and once again we find ourselves in unprecedented times in the midst of a pandemic disrupting our lives. But just like my father and his partner Sam, I am not fearful nor doubtful of what the future holds. I am more hopeful, and I strongly believe that all the chaos and turmoil will come to an end just as it has in decades past.

This is a great industry—the backbone of our society—it is where all the core values reside that make America a truly great country. It is in this industry where I have witnessed the strength, resilience, innovation and determination that will keep America moving forward. Because of this, I continue to be—more now than ever—very hopeful and optimistic for the future.

I consider myself fortunate and extremely grateful to be a part this industry, and to lead Modern Trade Communications as we continue to serve our industry’s audience and partners.

Source URL: https://www.metalconstructionnews.com/articles/a-lifetime-at-mcn/

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