Meet Your Ambassador: Steve Powell
- When did you become an Ambassador?
I became an official "Aspire Ambassador" when the organization was formed in 2020 with the merger of the Greater Greenwood Chamber of Commerce and the Johnson County Development Corporation (JCDC). However, my "unofficial" ambassadorship dates back to when I served in various terms on the boards of directors for both the Chamber and the JCDC. I have always advocated on behalf of the mission of the chamber and now Aspire. - How has being an Ambassador been beneficial to you and/or your company?
Aspire membership has been extremely beneficial to those for whom I have worked and served in providing a solid grassroots connection to all areas of the community: business, government, education and nonprofit sectors. That includes when I was Director at AT&T Indiana and now with the other volunteer organizations for whom I serve and represent. Aspire has been of great assistance in my personal and professional development and community service work also. - Why did you want to become an Ambassador?
My motivation for serving as an Ambassador is to provide testimony to the value of Aspire membership. Yes, we advocate on behalf of business. Yes, we advocate on behalf of businesses that wish to expand or locate in the community. Furthermore, we also advocate on behalf of all of those who live, work and play in our community. - Do you have a favorite memory as an Ambassador?
Yes, when we announced the merger of the chamber and JCDC. I am looking forward to more partnerships in the future. We are all in this together. - What advice do you have for professionals trying to connect with other professionals? What is your favorite networking tip?
My networking tips are these. Show up early. Stay late. Ask questions. Take names and notes. Finally, follow up with those with whom you meet and those with whom you work on what you learned. As my wife, Pam, often says, no one cares how much you know until they know how much you care. In the high-tech world in which we live, people still make the difference. - What was your first job?
My first full time job was PR Director for WISH-TV, Channel 8, Indianapolis from 1970 to 1973. I did not earn much, but I learned a lot. - What is something you like to do outside of work? Do you have any hobbies?
Politics, running, dancing, reading and traveling. - What is your favorite vacation and why?
The next one. Always enjoy exploring new places. - What makes you a raving fan of Aspire?
The thrill of working in the community and helping others succeed.
