Legacy in Motion

What is your full name, and where are you from?

Tom Garrity, Allentown, PA.  Born in Brookings, SD

Can you share a little about your professional background and current role?    

Entire career in family businesses.  All manufacturing.  President to two family owned businesses.

What inspired you to get involved in your family business (or field of work)?

I saw that a family that is aligned and communicates well, combined with passion and a vision to leave a legacy, could build great family businesses that become cornerstones of the communities they reside in.

What do you consider your biggest passion or driving force in your career?

 I’m curious, I’m competitive, and I like to see people win, to become their best versions of themselves.

Have you experienced any challenges or adversity in your journey? If so, how did you overcome them? 

Biggest challenge was to build a consulting firm bigger than just me. The key was a focus on core customer, and core processes documented so that good people could replicate.

What has been one of the biggest highlights or successes you’ve experienced in your family business?

My daughter Catherine joining.  My late wife Denise would be so proud, as am I.  I didn’t realize how rewarding having my daughter as a partner would be.

What lessons have you learned from navigating the highs and lows of your journey?

Keep the vision alive with the team.  Stay the course, but be aware of changes in the marketplace.  Build a team of A players – they are how you get to where you want to go.

How has being part of a family business shaped your leadership style or outlook?

I’m aware that both myself and my daughter are under a lens of scrutiny.  Not in a bad way, but watching for nepotism, favoritism, conflict. Catherine and I share a lot about the business to keep on the same page.

What advice would you give to the next generation stepping into leadership roles?

Earn it. Do the hard work.  Help others be successful.  Keep learning – everyday.  Little things and big things.  Become the expert in your lane. Stay hungry, humble, and smart.  Learn to lead – the team is your path to success, not you.

Looking ahead, what excites you most about the future—for yourself, your family business, or your community?

I’m excited to continue to prepare the team and the company for my succession.  Transitioning my relationships to the Next Gen. Watching my daughter flourish and grow and to see where she takes the company.

This blog post was written by Tom Garrity and reflects his journey of leadership, legacy, and family in business. His story captures the power of communication, shared vision, and the rewarding experience of guiding the next generation—reminding us that true success is built on purpose, people, and partnership.