PRODUCTION MANAGER, FUJITSU FRONTECH NORTH AMERICA
Hometown: Plattsburgh,
NY Age: 31
Education: BA, SUNY Plattsburgh
Community Involvement: Youth leader and local Youth International President, Church of the Nazarene
Josh Cameron’s college studies were designed for a career in newspaper journalism. He served as an editor of Cardinal Points, the campus newspaper, and dabbled in radio, running a weekly one-hour music show. After graduation he went to work for the Plattsburgh Press-Republican as a Systems Editor implementing new software and managing a 6-8-person design staff. Three years later, when an opportunity in a new field presented itself, Josh took a leap of faith. He left the newspaper business and went to work for Fujitsu, a manufacturer of self-checkout and self-service systems. During the last six years he has worked his way up through the organization, first as a team leader, then a supervisor and now the production manager.
What are you doing to make a difference in your profession?
Making it about more than the job title. Investing in the people around me. Getting to know them and what they are passionate about. It is amazing the return on investment you get when you show people how much value they have.
What do you believe is the single most important characteristic for success?
Integrity. Without integrity it is difficult to succeed at anything. John Maxwell uses the following definition of integrity, “Image is what people think we are. Integrity is what we really are.” It is not about who we are in a room full of watching eyes, but who we continue to be when we think we are alone.
What is your dream job?
I have many interests, so my dream job is not a specific role. Instead it is one that is honest and fulfilling. I need to be challenged. I enjoy working with a team that takes an interest in how what happens day-to-day affects everyone around them. Room to evolve and grown is also a plus. I am fortunate that my current position covers many of those aspects.
What important lesson have you learned in your career?
Seek out a mentor. Find someone who exhibits the traits you seek to find in yourself and request their guidance. There is often a line drawn between being successful and not needing the help of your colleagues, subordinates or superiors. That can be a long hard road to isolation and a stagnant career. We are not created to figure this “life” thing out on our own, and professional travels are no exception.
What is the biggest risk you’ve ever taken?
Owning my mistakes. Often this is seen as a sign of weakness. And it’s true, it hasn’t always worked out in my favor. However, my strongest relationships are the ones built on the knowledge that we all have our flaws.
Write a Note to Your Younger Self…
Slow down. Take the time to think out your next steps and then reflect on your decision. Lean on those you love and trust God to carry you through. And for goodness sake, put yourself out there. Get uncomfortable and then reap the benefits. Engage in your community and learn how you can serve it. Your calling is far more than a four-year degree and a paycheck. And at the same time, don’t take yourself too seriously.