Sarah Calhoun, founder of Red Ants Pants, served as the featured speaker at the event. She has nearly two decades of leadership experience in both the nonprofit and small business sectors, working in the outdoor education industry before starting her work wear for women company in 2006.
Calhoun wrapped up her advice under the theme of pickup trucks.
“I have five points to make about trucks and your future,” she told the graduates.
The first is work. “Trucks are designed for work and so are you,” she said. “Now the real work begins.”
The second is drive. The key is to keep moving even through roadblocks of deep snow and mud. These challenges are part of the journey. This takes patience and problem solving, she said. “Now is your time to drive forward,” Calhoun said.
The third is bed. Allow time for rest. She said people should perform routine maintenance on themselves just as they do to their rigs.
The fourth aspect is pride. Graduates should revel in their work the same as they revere their trucks. Be the best firefighter, nurse or welder you can be, she said. “Always be proud of your work,” Calhoun said. “You are the foundation of this nation, truly.”
Last, and perhaps the most enjoyable, is tailgate. The tailgate is known as the location to party but it can also be used as place to reflect on the road traveled. “Don’t forget to look back,” she added.