Jonathan Thrasher
S&ME
Spartanburg, SC USA
"Our minds are not fixed. We can grow and improve and learn new things."
Career Roadmap
Jonathan's work combines: Engineering, Business, and Problem Solving
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Day In The Life
Skills &
Education
Here's the path I took:
High School
Bachelor's Degree
Civil Engineering (Structural Concentration)
The University of Alabama in Huntsville
Here's the path I recommend for someone who wants to be an Operations Manager - Construction Services:
Bachelor's Degree: Civil Engineering (Structural Concentration)
Learn more about different paths to this career
Life & Career Milestones
My path in life took a while to figure out
1.
It took me a long time to graduate college because I worked full time to support myself.
2.
I graduated during the recession and only received a professional offer because I had worked for the company as a technician.
3.
I moved multiple times to be able to obtain promotions.
4.
During the twists and turns, I tried to focus on working for good people and good companies, although I didn't always guess correctly.
5.
At a point I turned down an opportunity for management so I could grow technically. It allowed me to work under a manager whose advice I still use.
6.
Later, two years ago, I lost my job. It was both the worst time in my career but also the best because I was able review my goals and join a company with which I believe I can finish my career.
7.
Due to the loss of my job, I initially didn't go back into management. S&ME gave me a position that fit my immediate goals and constant support.
8.
Thanks to the culture at S&ME though, I realized I was still right for leadership and went back to it a year go, being promoted to my current position.
Defining Moments
How I responded to discouragement
THE NOISE
Messages from Myself:
An introverted engineering mind can't learn to lead people.
How I responded:
Our minds are not fixed. We can grow and improve and learn new things. I went into engineering because I wanted to be part of design and construction of the built environment. I later realized the greatest impact we can have is to help others achieve their goals. It's that purpose that got me past the noise and my own self-doubt as a leader.
Experiences and challenges that shaped me
I didn't have much in the way of financial aid in college and I didn't want to take loans. So, I worked my way through school as a technician, working full time and going to college full time. It was very difficult but very rewarding.