Laird Rixford started his career nearly 20 years ago as
With a project list that is long and varied, Laird approaches his tasks with almost single-minded focus until the project is complete and goals accomplished. I spoke with Laird about the technology he uses and how he manages his to-do list. This is the way Laird works.
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One word that describes how you like to work: Intense
Current mobile device: Google Nexus 6P
Current computer: Dell Precision M3800, Microsoft Surface Pro
Project(s) you're currently working on: My favorite role at ITC is my job as the company's Skunk Works. I find problems known or unknown and design a solution. As for
Accomplishments you're proud of:
I have two on this one. I was told from a very early time that I would never be a pilot. I even listened to it for a long time. I decided to do something that I was told I could not do...and I did it. The second was starting a business from scratch. Selling that business. Then growing the combined company farther than ever imagined.
What are your goals for the next 12 months?
With 
Aside from your phone and computer, what gadget can't you live without and why?
My Jaybird BlueBud X wireless headphones, I use them everywhere, planes, gym and even at the office.
What technology, apps or tools can't you live without?
Mobile internet. Wikipedia. Feedly for reading blogs. Most importantly, spell check.
Describe your workspace.
My desk is pretty clean and I only use a single monitor unlike other people at ITC. I just have expeditious use of Alt+Tab.
How do you manage your to-do list?
Microsoft OneNote
What do you do when you finish a project?
Brag.
What's your best time-saving tip or hack?
If you need to get up and do something make sure you string together other stops from your to-do list and handle them along the way. A job like grabbing a soft drink from the
What is your best everyday habit?
What do you listen to while working?
Tool. Deftones. Fair to Midland. Any post-rock band.
What are you currently reading?
The Martian by Andy Weir
How do you decompress?
Going flying. When you become a pilot you are told to not fly when stressed, yet flying completely relaxes me. If I'm not able to fly, then listening to music is the next best thing.
What's your sleep routine like?
Not enough. I sleep between four and five hours a day.
Who are your business idols and why?
Marcus Lemonis would be one of them. He can look at a business and find ways to improve it through improvements that usually require looking at a problem in a different way. Michael Dell and Mark Cuban are also on my list. I guess I have a thing for tech entrepreneurs.
What is the best advice you've ever received?
'Hire people smarter than yourself.'
What would you be doing if you weren't president of ITC?
Owning and flying a charter floatplane throughout the Caribbean.
Who would you like to see in
Ryan Hanley
The This is the Way blog series asks ITC employees, agents, carriers and other people in the industry how they work and to share their tips. Is there someone you want to see featured or questions we should ask? Tweet us or leave it in the comments below.
About the Author
As vice president of marketing, Becky Schroeder oversees ITC’s growth through marketing and drives the overall marketing strategy for the company and its products. Her specialties include advertising, social media, email marketing, content marketing and public relations. Becky has a master’s degree in integrated marketing communication from Emerson College in Boston and a bachelor’s degree in journalism from Texas A&M University. Becky is a big Texas A&M football fan and enjoys cooking, reading and spending time with her husband and their two daughters.
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