PF Peeps is our special way of spotlighting unique Pathfinder personalities at work and play, an avenue to discover things about our Peeps. This month we look forward to presenting a force both at the office and in our community.
Garrett Gingerich brought his positive attitude, brilliant smile, great sense of humor and creative website design skills to Pathfinders in 2012. He is our eMedia Director now and touches us all with his politeness, kindness and playfulness. He excels in finding ways to make internet experiences interactive as evidenced by our fun PF Punch Out game that was the website companion to our Holiday card. (www.pfpunchout.com if you want to try it!) His many community interests benefit us all – and he is always learning new things about the area and sharing with us. With Garrett, anything is possible and we know it will be enjoyable. You will understand why when you learn some more about him.
At Work
What is special about working in an Advertising and Marketing agency in Mishawaka?
I love the restaurants – mostly because they have a national as well as local presence. A few of us try to go out for lunch on Fridays and explore local restaurants that none of us have ever been to—we like to call our excursions “Path Finds.” My favorite so far has been Pitt’s BBQ on Mishawaka Ave.
What do you think the future will be for digital marketing?
The expression “Cross-Platform” will become the most important concept whether talking about communication or development strategies. The platforms themselves will inevitably change, but the communication concept itself will not.
What is your idea of perfect happiness in the workplace?
Ice cream every day! Oh – and always having every client love what we do for them.
How does Pathfinders help find a path to success for our clients?
In my own words, I believe it is because we align objectives with our clients, and genuinely care about their business.
At Play
What is your favorite movie?
Dumb and Dumber. I will, without a doubt, laugh every single time I watch it. It never gets old even though I’m able to essentially quote the entire movie, relating it to real life scenarios. For example, the best way to lighten-up a stressful situation: “We got no food, we got no job, our pets’ heads are falling off!”
What is your favorite software?
I’m going to bring out my inner-nerd here and say Google Chrome. I spend most of my day in it, and it gives me a lot of tools to make my work life easier.
What is the activity you most enjoy with your Pathfinders team?
I really enjoy playing volleyball in the Wednesday night summer league and sharing Happy Hours because it allows us to connect on a more personal level.
What is your favorite workspace?
A micro-pub or coffee shop helps you focus and removes typical office distractions.
Favorite book?
Any book by John Grisham I can knock out in a few days because it keeps me entranced and wanting to read the next page to find out what happens. “The Partner” (which has an incredible ending you don’t see coming) got me hooked initially, and I just wrapped up his newest book, “The Rogue Lawyer”.
“Good to Great” by Jim Collins is my favorite business book as it’s one of the first I read while in college and a lot of the fundamental concepts have stuck with me over the years, and helped me gain an understanding of the role of humility in leadership.
You may not know…
Is there anything that might surprise people about you?
I could probably talk all day on this topic. But what I believe surprises people the most is that I am a country boy at heart and a retired cowboy. I grew up on a farm in Kokomo, Indiana, and was a ten-year member of 4H where I showed pigs, sheep, chickens, rabbits, and was involved with several other projects (including graphic design).
What were the highs and lows about being a cowboy?
I was crowned 4H Prince during my last active year – definitely a high point. I enjoyed riding bulls as a hobby for 2 years in local rodeos. A low point was when I almost lost my leg (and subsequent hospital bills), but I recovered and would now love the opportunity to “get back on one.”
Which living person inspires you the most or is an inspiration for you?
My grandfather. He’s probably the most genuine and spiritual person I know. He has also helped teach me the value of hard work and always caring for others.
What are your most treasured accomplishments?
I was selected as a member of the Michiana Forty under 40 class of 2013. The criteria used to select members was professional and community service – and while I am very proud of what I do professionally – I have really learned to love living here through getting involved with several nonprofit organizations. I was a “celebrity” Dancing With Our Stars participant and won Mr. Congeniality as part of an effort to raise awareness and funds for the Center for the Homeless and United Health Services, respectively.
One last, very big one is that my flag design submission for the City of South Bend won!
Where would you like to take your Pathfinders travel mug?
Well, I’d like to go to the moon and back. It would be a long trip and I’d need some caffeine.
Life motto?
