Employee Spotlight: Paul LaRoche
Although the agriculture industry and our products/services may change over the years, one consistent factor remains; our employees are one of the most important ingredients in our recipe for success. Through our Employee Spotlight series, learn about the people who make up the Stutsman team. Paul LaRoche joined our team in Agronomy Sales in 2006. Even though he didn’t grow up in agriculture, his passion for the industry and keeping our customers successful is obvious with everything he does!
“No matter the task, Paul always Takes the Lead and assumes a role of ownership. He excels at making decisions with both the customer and our company’s well-being in mind. Paul operates the Riverside location like it is his own, and for that I will always be appreciative. He is as honest as the day is long, and Instills Authenticity in everything he does. He has a long track record of doing the right thing for his customers. Paul is never afraid of saying “I don’t know” when asked a difficult question, and wastes no time in finding the correct answer for his customer. He always holds himself highly accountable, and when he tells a customer or co-worker he will do something, Paul always follows through.” –Mark Stutsman, COO.
What are your responsibilities?
Sales of fertilizer and chemicals and working to keep customers profitable.
What is your background?
After graduating high school in Indianapolis, IN in 1974, I moved to Iowa. I started in the feed business in 1975 and worked there until I started at Stutsmans in 2006.
What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
Spending time with family and our 6 grandkids! I also enjoy hunting, fishing, and outdoor life.
What do you consider to be the most rewarding part of your job?
Being able to spend the past 43 years working with farmers.
What is something random most people don’t know about you?
My parents sent me to Iowa to keep me out of trouble!
If you had to eat the same food for the rest of your life what would it be?
Fish.
If you were stuck on an island what 3 items would you bring?
A gun, fishing pole, and raft!
What would be the title of your autobiography?
City Kid Gone Country
What’s on your bucket list?
See a lot more of this country!
What has been the biggest change in the industry during your tenure here?
Precision Ag and the acceptance of it by our customers.
What is your favorite thing about the ag industry?
The customers and the changes you see from generation to generation in the farm families!
What Stutsman Core Value means the most to you? Why?
Exceed Expectations; that’s the way I live my life.