We’re thrilled to welcome Mike Watson BACK to the Induron family as Infrastructure Business Development Manager! Mike describes his journey to this point in his career as “diverse and rewarding” as it includes serving in the Army, earning a Business Administration degree, managing protective coatings business for a large paint manufacturer, and working for Induron.
To learn a little more about Mike, check out this Q&A.
Q: Tell us about your background, experience in the paint/coatings industry and how you came to work for Induron.
A: As many may know, this is my second time at Induron, and I’m thrilled to be back at such a wonderful, unique, family-owned coatings manufacturer. My journey began with joining the Army right out of high school, where I served for six years, including a deployment to Afghanistan in 2010. I earned my degree in Business Administration from Kennesaw State in three and a half years and then secured a sales position at a large paint manufacturer. During my time there, I received multiple awards and recognition for growing sales and exceeding targets. I spent three years at Induron managing the Carolina’s Florida, and Georgia before being lured back to a large paint manufacturer, where I spent the past four years managing the protective coatings business in Georgia. In that role, I supported multiple sales representatives, dealer accounts, and my own direct customers.
Q: Are you seeing any new trends in the coatings industry?
A: Induron has benefited from recent changes to NSF 61 solvent extractable limits, particularly for three solvents that Induron ceased using years ago. This change boosts asset owners’ confidence in Induron’s NSF 61 immersion epoxies, thanks to their extended track record and innovative ceramic technology.
Q: What are your responsibilities in your new role?
A: I am responsible for market analysis, developing growth strategies, and building client relationships. I oversee sales and revenue growth, manage coating projects, provide technical support, and ensure compliance with industry standards. Additionally, I work on marketing initiatives and consult with R&D to innovate and develop new products.
Q: Why Induron? What’s your favorite thing about working for Induron so far?
A: Working for a third-generation family-owned business offers a unique environment characterized by strong values, a deep sense of legacy, and a close-knit culture. At Induron, employees often experience a more personal and inclusive atmosphere, with a focus on long-term relationships and stability. Returning after spending four years with a large corporation, I truly appreciate the agility and personal touch that a family business provides, contrasting with the often more impersonal and bureaucratic nature of larger companies. It’s nice to feel that I’m appreciated, my family is cared for, and my customers are appreciated as well. Additionally, Induron’s innovative product line featuring ceramic technology is uniquely designed for easy application by contractors, setting a new standard in the industry.
Q: What’s the most challenging part of your job?
A: The sales cycle is rather long and can be slow for multiple reasons, including budgets, different policy changes, and federal loan programs. In this industry, it’s paramount to partner with asset owners, specifying engineers, and to ensure that contractors are familiar and comfortable with your product line. To excel in this role, you need to thoroughly understand the industry, stay informed about market developments, and manage your time effectively.
Q: Tell us about a project you’ve worked on that you’re especially proud of.
A: I’ve been fortunate to contribute to several significant projects: Truist Park (Go Braves!), Hartsfield Atlanta Airport, Bryant Denny Stadium (Roll Tide!), and numerous tanks and treatment plants. Each project is uniquely rewarding and deserves to be treated as the pinnacle of one’s career. I’m grateful that many contractors have relied on me as a resource, trusting that I’m dedicated to supporting them and ensuring the success of their projects.
Q: What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
A: My dad used to say that a man is only as good as his word. That principle has always resonated with me, and I strive to honor his memory by living up to it every day.
Q: If you could have dinner with any person living or dead, who would it be?
A: I would choose to have dinner with my mother, who passed away when I was very young. There are many things I would like to ask her, and I would simply like to get to know her better.
Q: What person has had the biggest influence on your life and why?
A: When my mom passed away at a young age, my father took on the responsibility of raising me. He instilled in me the values of hard work, discipline, grit, and a love for the outdoors.
Q: Tell us a little about your family, pets and/or hobbies.
A: My wife Amy and I are the proud parents of two beautiful and sweet little girls, Ellison (6) and Oaklynn (2), along with our senior puppy, Jovie. We love spending time together as a family, whether it’s going to the pool in the summer, playing pickleball, or cooking out with friends and family on the weekends. Fall is our favorite time of year because it marks the beginning of college football season–Roll Tide!