As we enter the new year, it’s time to embrace the excitement and potential of fresh ideas and new goals. Simpson Strong-Tie Production Supervisor Curtis McCarrell is a perfect example of this spirit, as he has faced challenges and obstacles in his life but has always found a way to overcome them. Curtis recently worked with our marketing team to share his inspiring weight-loss journey and how, with the help of his coworkers, he was able to achieve his goal of losing weight and improving his health for the people he loves.

Curtis was 343 pounds and found himself struggling with depression. One day a fellow supervisor talked him into going to the gym. Curtis had a clear motivation for his weight-loss journey: He wanted to be a healthy role model for his children. He said, “I did this for my kids because I want them to know that you can change your life.”

Curtis walked every day and used a water tower as his symbol of determination. “I’d look at this tower and be like, ‘I’ll see you tomorrow.’” With the help of his coworkers and Simpson Strong-Tie’s hypertension program, which provides resources for employees to connect with specialized health coaches and monitor their blood pressure, Curtis was able to lose over 100 pounds.

Curtis speaks about how Simpson Strong-Tie provides a culture of “we’re gonna overcome this together.” So, with the help of his coworkers, family, and Simpson Strong-Tie’s hypertension program, Curtis had all the tools he needed to accomplish his goals.

Curtis also emphasized the importance of teamwork in his success. That teamwork is reflected in how he approaches his daily work life. As a Production Supervisor, he often steps in to run the machines for press operators during their breaks, and he said, “What can I do to make these guys successful? Because I’m not successful unless our team is successful.” This team-oriented culture is a key part of Simpson Strong-Tie, where coworkers support and encourage each other, both in times of triumph and when there are challenges or setbacks.

Curtis’ journey of weight loss and personal growth is an inspiration to us all. His dedication to bettering himself and his support system of coworkers have created a positive and supportive culture within Simpson Strong-Tie. Curtis’ story is a reminder that with determination and support, we can overcome challenges and achieve our goals. Thank you for sharing your journey with us, Curtis, and for being a shining example of what can be achieved when we work together.

At Simpson Strong-Tie, you’ll find talented, passionate, dedicated, humble and genuinely kind people who are all connected by our shared mission — to provide solutions that help people design and build safer, stronger structures. We’ve built a workplace where people are connected and engaged in creative thinking from day one throughout their careers.

We’re hiring. Check out our open position.

See ore stories by watching our Makers of Simpson Strong-Tie series.