September Member of the Month: Michael Worthington
Each month, the Austin Young Chamber will highlight a member who is doing extraordinary work to strengthen our businesses, our community…or both! Showcasing their achievements is just one way we can put a spotlight on the talented, collaborative, and community-focused workforce we have here in Central Texas.
This month we honor Michael Worthington, Outside Sales Representative for Classic Forms and Products.
Michael originally joined the Austin Young Chamber for the obvious networking opportunities. He quickly realized it presented an exceptional opportunity for a young professional to team with peers to positively affect the community. Not surprisingly, he also found role models, mentors and community leaders with experience and wisdom that helped him grow, both as a young professional and as a person.
Michael’s family business has been around since 1979. When they decided to expand within Texas, Austin was the obvious choice and Michael was tapped to relocate and open the Austin branch. The fast growing, young and energetic business climate in Austin is exactly their target customer base and the expansion has exceeded their expectations. Classic Forms and Products is involved in the printing and promotional products industry and offers a full spectrum of custom printing, promotional and safety products. Michael gets excited every day to help each and every customer by providing quality, functional products to help brands motivate their employees, enhance their business, and ultimately the business’s bottom line.
While in school, Michael worked part-time for Classic Forms and Products and knew he was gaining valuable experience. Upon graduation, he was accepted into the Management Trainee Program for Enterprise Holdings and spent four years in Houston & Los Angeles. Those four years gave him the confidence and experience he was seeking and allowed him to join Classic and open the Austin Branch in 2014.
Michael is involved with many local chambers as well as a member of the current Leadership Austin Emerge class. He has been an active volunteer with the Texas Food Bank as well as the Austin Train Foundation. As an avid out exercise enthusiast he enjoys the positive impact he can have on community initiatives that promote health and wellness.
When asked what advice he should share with other young professionals looking to start or grow their career here in Austin, Michael responded:
Find a career path 1) that matches your skill set, 2) where your involvement will add value and 3) that you will enjoy pursuing. Outline your near and long-term career goals and review/update them often. Align yourself with organizations and individuals that share your core values. Get actively involved with community and business organizations that provide interaction with like-minded young professionals.
Be inquisitive and observant; Be honest and sincere; Be willing to change, learn and grow; Be yourself!
