Cimco-GC Systems is proud to be a team made up of diverse backgrounds, skill sets, and interests. This time, we’re turning the spotlight on our President and CEO, Raeann Velasquez, whose leadership since 2018 has guided the company’s continued growth and evolution while keeping its purpose clear and people-focused.
Raeann joined Cimco in 1997 as a software developer and went on to lead in operations, management, and ultimately ownership in 2018. Her passion for people and her belief in the mission of providing solutions that power success for water and irrigation professionals continue to guide Cimco-GC Systems’s direction today. Read on to learn more about Raeann’s story, what inspires her leadership, and how she sees the future of the company.
Q&A W/ RAEAnn VELASQUEZ:
Where did you grow up?
Just about everywhere! I am a military brat and moved every two-to-three years, including most regions of the US, England, and Guam.
What do you enjoy most about your work?
Serving the incredible water professionals we get to work with who ensure we have healthy water sources available for everyone.
What is your favorite thing about being the CEO of Cimco-GC Systems?
We have an incredible team of people who truly care.
Describe a moment where you felt most proud of the company's impact. Why was it so meaningful to you?
This is a hard one. Everyday, our team makes an impact! Whether it’s staying late to ensure an order goes out on time or answering troubleshooting calls from end users or operators, our team is willing to do what is needed to make a difference.
What is something that stands out to you about the Cimco-GC Systems Team?
While our team is paid for their work, I view them as volunteers. Each day, they make the choice to come to work and do a great job. I don’t take that for granted. I appreciate what each person does and how each makes the company better.
Do you have any surprise skills that most people in your professional world don't know about?
In the past I rode motorcycles and still have my endorsement. As I begin walking down the corporate ladder, I plan to begin riding again.
Best piece of advice you ever received about leadership?
When in doubt, overcommunicate. Then, when you can’t give information for whatever reason, your team will have more trust knowing you will tell them once you are able (Dave Ramsey, Entreleadership).
Which Cimco-GC Systems value have you seen shape the company most deeply? Where or how do you see the impact? What does it mean to you?
It all begins with trust (or respect). We should trust people until we can’t. High trust allows us to make decisions quickly at low cost. This was especially critical during Covid when we were all faced with so many changes so quickly.
If you could pass on one lesson to the next generation of Cimco leaders, what would it be?
The company should always be defined by the current set of team members. As team members change, the company will as well. Don’t be tempted to squeeze someone into a previous person’s role. Align responsibilities with each person’s strengths. When you do, you’ll maximize both productivity and job satisfaction.
I have full confidence in the next generation of leaders and am excited to see the impact they will make as they take the helm.
Lightning round:
Books that have impacted your leadership:
Good to Great by Jim Collins
Entreleadership by Dave Ramsey
The Speed of Trust by Stephen Covey
What is your favorite day-off activity?
Spending time with my family.
What is one of your favorite (away from home) places on the planet?
Captain Cook Cove in Hawaii where I swam with dolphins in the wild. We were snorkeling and they came and joined us.
One thing you couldn’t live without:
My family