ThoughtForm is thrilled to announce that Larry Garchar has joined our team as the Director of Project Management. We sat down with Larry to chat about his career path, the moody design of speakeasies, and what you can learn from a well-timed pivot.
Tell us a little bit about your background.
I attained my MBA from Katz Graduate School of Business at the University of Pittsburgh where I focused heavily on Strategy and Project Management. Prior to my MBA, I received a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Exercise Science and Health Promotion from the University of Mount Union and PennWest California. Outside of education, I hold the PMP (Project Management Professional), PSM (Professional Scrum Master), and IBM Enterprise Design Thinking Practitioner certifications. I have several years of experience collaborating with leading Fortune 500, Healthcare, and Technology companies on creative problem solving through project management. I get satisfaction in seeing a client gain clarity and executing their vision.
Outside of work, I enjoy working out, being outside, and having fun with family and friends. I just finished cycling my second 100-mile Pelotonia, a cancer research-based fundraising event. My team raised $10,000 for cancer research this year.
What’s an example of design you admire today?
I’m intrigued by the designs of Speakeasy Bars. They often contain dark leather chesterfield sofas, mood lighting, and wood or brick accents. There is typically a calm vibe that welcomes comfortable conversation and an element of mystery you don’t get from a typical bar or restaurant. Several architecturally complement Prohibition-era speakeasies in the early to mid-1900s.
What excites you most about working with ThoughtForm?
I’m excited to work with a team of talented, design-thinking collaborators who take pride in helping to solve challenging problems. The team encourages open feedback, so there is the opportunity to continuously improve, adapt, and iterate on how we best work. Lastly, the dynamic range of projects creates consistent opportunities to learn about new industries, challenges, and perspectives.
What advice do you have for someone just getting started down a similar career path to your own?
Don’t be afraid to pivot. Certain career paths may have expiration dates, and that’s okay. If something drives your interest, take the time to explore it. I’d advise connecting with both seasoned and early professionals in that target role and asking questions. Career progression is a constant iteration with many variables. Iterate on those variables until you put yourself in the position that compliments your strengths. This could be culture, industry, company size, location, communication style, etc.
Who’s currently on your work playlist?
My playlist is dynamic. I probably consume more podcasts than music during the workday. My interests sit with the entrepreneurial/person growth-style products including The Pivot Podcast, The GaryVee Audio Experience, and Capitalism.com Podcast. You can find Lil Uzi Vert, Jack Harlow, Nico Moon, and assorted Lofi on my current music playlist. It all depends on what I’m feeling at the time.