Employee Spotlight: Joe Austin
Posted on August 23, 2024 by Katie Meehan
This month, we’re highlighting Joe Austin, a valued member of our Jonesboro Sales Team, who
has been with VSC since April 2016. Joe’s journey at VSC reflects his unwavering passion for
safety, dedication to growth, and commitment to making a positive impact both within our
company and in the community.
Joe was the first Inspections salesperson hired when the office opened and has maintained that
role ever since. He continues to demonstrate his passion for safety and fire protection
throughout his career. His decision to join VSC was driven by a desire to help keep people safe,
making the fire protection industry a natural fit for him.
Since joining VSC, Joe has witnessed significant growth in the company, from just a few offices
to over 30. The Jonesboro office has also expanded, adding another salesperson to the
Inspections team, whom Joe now mentors and trains. When reflecting on what sets VSC apart,
Joe highlighted the company’s commitment to supporting employee growth and knowledge. He
admires the sense of community among the employees and how the company consistently
encourages development and continued learning.
Joe’s supervisor, Wayne Reece, Inspections Manager, was eager to acknowledge Joe and his
achievements. He said, “With Joe, VSC is always his top priority, whether it’s helping with
customers, answering billing questions, or assisting other departments with whatever they
need.”
Joe’s dedication to leadership development recently led him to participate in the Jonesboro
Leadership Program, a highly competitive initiative led by the local Chamber of Commerce. The
program aims to equip potential leaders with the skills and knowledge needed to contribute
effectively to their communities. Joe’s interest in the program had been growing for some time,
and with the encouragement of our President and CEO, Tommy Clements, who personally
recommended the program, he decided to apply. Tommy said, “I was personally thrilled to
support Joe’s participation in the Jonesboro Leadership Program. Through my own experience
with Leadership Greater Little Rock 17 years ago, I can attest to the life-changing experience
that these programs can provide. Joe is an outstanding representative of VSC and can continue
to grow his community involvement with the new knowledge gained through the Jonesboro
program. I applaud him and all the recent graduates for investing the time to improve their
community!” After a rigorous selection process, Joe was accepted into the program in
December.
The program, which started in January, involves meeting twice a month with local city officials,
business leaders, and guest speakers. Participants gain insight into various sectors, including
manufacturing, government, law enforcement, and the restaurant industry. Joe described the
experience as both challenging and rewarding, allowing him to broaden his understanding of
how businesses can engage with the community and contribute to its development.
For Joe, the biggest takeaway from the leadership program has been the relationships he’s built
and the new avenues it has opened for VSC. By connecting with other business leaders and
engaging in community initiatives, Joe has helped enhance VSC’s presence in the region. “The connections I’ve made through this program are invaluable for both personal growth and
expanding our business,” he noted.
Joe credits much of his professional growth to the support he’s received from key figures in his
life and at VSC. His father, who served in the military, instilled in him the values of discipline and
striving for excellence. Additionally, Jeff Riddle, SVP Regional Manager of the South-Central
Region, has been instrumental in guiding Joe’s career at VSC, offering advice and opportunities
for learning. Jeff added, “Working with Joe has always been an absolute pleasure. His
dedication and commitment to the Jonesboro Leadership Program exemplify the qualities we
value at VSC Fire & Security. We believe in empowering our employees to pursue opportunities
for growth and development, as it not only enhances their skills but also strengthens our
organization. Supporting initiatives like the Jonesboro Leadership Program is crucial in building
the next generation of leaders, and Joe’s success is a testament to the importance of investing
in our team’s development.”
When asked what advice he would give to those looking to become better leaders, Joe
emphasized the importance of seeking out opportunities for growth, whether through company-
sponsored programs or local initiatives like the Chamber of Commerce. “Take advantage of the
support you have, both professionally and personally,” Joe advised. “It’s these experiences that
help you grow as a leader.”
We’re proud to have Joe as part of the VSC team and excited to see how his leadership journey
continues to evolve. Congratulations, Joe, on your achievements, and thank you for all that you
do!
