Great People Make Great Things Happen

I originally titled this "Great Things Happen to Great People", but changed it to reflect the real story. 

A little over a week before he was scheduled to attend SolidWorks World 2009, Rodney Hall found out that his employer was shutting the doors to the company.  That didn't stop Rodney from attending the conference though - he picked up his own tab and drove over eight hours each way just to be there.  Jeff Ray was so impressed by this that he mentioned Rodney's story during his opening address on Monday.  Rodney worked the conference hard, and it paid off.

This coming Monday, Rodney starts a new job with Shaw Areva Services in Aiken, South Carolina.  He gives a lot of credit to SolidWorks World and the SolidWorks Community for providing the networking opportunities that helped him land the new gig.  I'm sure it's true, but I suspect it had more to do with Rodney's talent, energy, and reputation.

The story gets even better.  Having to leave the Catawba Valley SolidWorks User Groupthat he founded was disappointing, but true to his nature, Rodney has left the group in the capable hands of Scott Furr.  To compensate a little for missing user group meetings, Rodney has agreed to take a part time job as a SolidWorks instructor at Aiken Technical College.  You gotta love that kind of dedication.

There is some downside to this great story.  Aiken is over four hours from Rodney's home in Hickory, meaning he'll be spending most of the week away from his family in a rented apartment.  He'll travel back and forth on the weekends, but he's also set up a Skype account and purchased a couple of high-quality webcams to stay in touch during the week.  Watching your kids over a webcam isn't ideal, but as Rodney put it, "sometimes you've got to do what you've got to do."

So, Rodney's story doesn't end here, in fact it's just beginning.  A new city, a new job, and new challenges.  If you know Rodney Hall, you know he'll give it 110%.  If you don't know Rodney, you haven't been paying attention.  I know he reads this blog, so leave a note of congratulations.  You'll also find him on the SolidWorks discussion forums, and if you "Twitter", he's there on occasion as well.  Who knows, there might be a new user group popping up in Aiken, South Carolina too.

Comments

[Devon T. Sowell]

Hey Rodney-

Congratulations and Good Luck to you and your family!

I spoke to Rodney, for the first time, at 2009 SolidWorks World and his skills and determination were quite evident. Sarah & I wish you all the best.

Devon Sowell

[Anne Yust]

Rodney Hall is first class. I think he is SolidWorks' biggest cheerleader. SolidWorks should move his family to Boston, and get a good dose of southern charm. Those Yankees (I used to be one, born in MA) could sure use it. Knowing Rodney, there will be some sort of SolidWorks user group either in his new area or at his new place of employment. Congrats, Rodney! Wait about a week and then forward all these comments to your boss

[Brian McElyea]

Congrats on the new job, Rodney! I know it will be hard being away from your family that much; but you know, it's true what they say - when one door closes, another one opens. Here's hoping you have some great opportunities in store!

[Casey Gorman]

Rodney,

I know at SolidWorks World we talk about this job. It's great that something has come through so fast, but I know it is due to your hard work. Shaw Areva has one hell of a new employee.

Best of Luck my friend

[Jeff Ray]

Richard, great article! Thank you. Rodney, as we discussed last week, you are a perfect example of what gets all of us at SolidWorks out of bed each day; to get to work with awesome people like you. Don't worry, I won't take up that suggestion that we move you to Boston (I grew up in San Antonio, and have yet to embrace these winters), but we're ready to support your success in Aiken. Looking forward to attending your new SWUG!

[Jack Hall]

Congrats to one FINE son, Mom and I are so Proud of Roadney. He has always been one that enjoys new challenges. We are so lucky to have a son like Rodney.

May God Bless Rodney and his fine Family,

Mom & Dad
(Jack & Dot)

[Dan Bertschi]

Rodney, I'm very happy for you, congratulations! It was great seeing you again at SWWorld. You've set a fine example of 'How to Network' and I'm certain your skills will carry you through this. You're webcam deployment to remain a part of daily life at home is great! Many would let this slide, I commend you for doing all you can. Take Care.

[Ryan Morgan]

We wish you the best Rodney in all you do. I know that Rodney's personal testimony is just as great as this story. Thanks for all you do for my family and if I can do anything for your while away just let me know.

Ryan & Sarah

[Betty and Jimmy Hall]

Rodney, Congrats on the new position. We know you will miss your family, but hopefully you can make up the time on the weekends with them. Good luck.

[Rich Hall]

Rodney,
I hope I would have the drive and gumption you did if ever I loose my job. Good luck with everything and let me know how that teaching gig goes!
Rich

[Josh]

Rodney, man. I had no doubts about you. Hope you all the time with the family is quality and you don't have to be so far away from them for too long. Go get'em.

[Rob J]

Good Luck Rodney..!! I wish you all the best.

[Ricky Jordan]

Rodney Hall, you are THE MAN! Congratulations on your new gig. I know that Shaw Areva is getting one HECK of an employee!

Rodney's enthusiasm and positive outlook throughout the last month and a half has been flat out inspiring.

Good Luck on your new Journey Buddy!

Ricky Jordan

[Rhonda]

Rodney is my brother, and as with both of my brothers, they are always people the big sister can be proud of. I know that this opportunity presented itself through the work of the Lord, and I know it will be tough for him and his family, but he is a class act, and I know they will get through it. Rodney is smart, talented, dedicated, and has a heart as big as Texas, he just would never let you know that.

I love you Rod, Crystal, Ryan, and Brandy. It will all work out. God Bless, and Congrats!!!!!!!

(Throwing mashed 'taters on the ceiling to celebrate)

LOVE YOU!

-Rhonda

[Carisa Williams]

Congrats Rodney! You're a good man and I know you make your family proud! I'm happy to have you as a uncle for Cody! You're a great role model for him to look up to! Take care! Love to you, Crystal, Ryan, & Brandy!

[Ryan Hall]

World's Greatest Dad - By Far!
He stays in an apartment all week, to work, and keep his family back home healthy.
I am fortunate enough to have a Dad as great as you, and to care about my future so much, that you will leave me here in NC so that I am able to pursure my music career. I want to be as dedicated to my music as you are your job. I have observed from you that dedication can take you great distances in Life and help you when the doors close.
I miss you and hope to see you soon.
Love you,
your son, Ryan

[Suresh]

Rodney,

Congratulations! I am sure you have heard this saying many times, What goes around comes around. Everything happens for a reason. I hope you get settled down soon in the new place and job, and will be able to have your family around you soon. Hang in there and continue doing what you enjoy and passionate about.

Your story is an inspiration to many out there especially in a difficult economic times like we are facing currently.

Keep up the good work.

Best wishes,

Suresh

[Matthew Felsted]

Congrats to Rodney on the new position!