When our CEO, Paul White and his wife Lisa were planning their own home renovation, they were instantly put at ease by simply stating “Rick’s coming.”
This showed just how trustworthy and dependable Rick has been since he started with us in 1980. As Rick prepares for his well-earned retirement in August 2024, we reflect on his remarkable journey and the indelible mark he has left on both our clients and our community across southern Maine.
From Humble Installer to Company Mentor: Rick’s Illustrious Career
Rick Collins began his tenure at Paul White Company fresh out of high school, his career foundation built from early experiences working with a local carpenter. This hands-on apprenticeship nurtured a meticulous attention to detail and a deep love for crafting that propelled him through various challenging and high-profile projects. From sprawling custom showers to delicately tiled kitchen backsplashes, Rick approached each project with a blend of precision and creativity, often tackling the jobs others deemed too complex.
In 2014, after 34 years in the field, Rick transitioned to a vital role at our retail office as both a project and operations manager. Balancing these dual roles would prove to be an immense challenge for the two years that he worked them. Rick’s steadfast dedication and commitment to quality led him to be successful at navigating all the responsibilities including orchestrating project logistics, coordinating with sales and clients, and managing installation teams. His leadership during this period ensured every project not only met but exceeded expectations, showcasing his profound commitment to excellence.
Today, as Rick approaches retirement, he continues to impact our operations as a field technician and project manager. His extensive knowledge and experience have made him an invaluable mentor to our team, guiding them through intricate installations and complex problem-solving scenarios.
Rick Collins Has Been A Cornerstone of Our Company Family
Rick is more than just a colleague; he’s a cherished member of the Paul White Company family. His 44 years of unwavering loyalty have not only shaped the landscape of our company but also fostered a culture of integrity, generosity, and collaboration. Rick’s influence permeates our workplace, his ethos of kindness and professionalism are echoed in the practices and attitudes of every team member he interacts with, from trainees he mentors directly to colleagues he inspires in passing.
His legacy as a cornerstone of company culture is profound. Rick has been instrumental in developing policies that enhance our operations and work environment, often bringing his insightful, fair perspective to strategy meetings. This guidance has helped shape a workplace where everyone feels valued and empowered.
Rick Collins’ Legacy of Excellence and Heart
Rick’s commitment extends beyond his professional achievements to his deep-rooted family values and community involvement. Known for his honesty and straightforward approach, he has always prioritized doing things right over taking shortcuts. His narratives about his family—his wife, children, and grandchildren—highlight the joy and fulfillment they bring to his life.
As we bid farewell to Rick in his full-time capacity, we celebrate the legacy of a man whose work ethic, expertise, and kindness have left a lasting impact on everyone around him. We are grateful for the years of dedication he has given to Paul White Company and the standards of excellence he has set.