2008 40 Under 40 Honoree: Gordon Weathers

He’s held the position since 2005, having done a great deal of learning since then.

“I came into this position with no media or television experience, but I knew as long as I could exhibit strong leadership skills, that was irrelevant,” Weathers says. “I continually seek new training on sales and leadership styles for myself, in order to enrich my department. I work to build up my sales staff and keep them loaded with the tools they need to be successful."

When it comes to community service, Weathers’ approach is mainly hands-on. He’s a volunteer firefighter with the Southern Stone County Fire Protection District.

“I think that every boy’s dream is to be a fireman at one point,” Weathers says.

Graduation from training in 2004 was followed by a literal trial by fire.

“I graduated in October (and) by Christmas, I ran 17 fires,” Weathers says. “I got more experience in those two months than most (volunteer) firemen see in their lifetime.”

Another trial by fire soon followed, as the fire district faced growing pains and media scrutiny in 2006. Weathers, who holds the rank of lieutenant with the fire district and serves as its public information officer, was able to share his media savvy with the department.

“In the beginning, there was a lot of turmoil. This new chief was in the process of healing the department,” Weathers says. “(Now) firefighters know that when I come on scene, I will do what I can to get their name mentioned out there. They like it because I give the department a good public image.”

Weathers serves several community organizations, including Rotary and the Hollister Chamber of Commerce. He enjoys his job, but his true sense of satisfaction comes from the efforts as a firefighter and first responder.

“This role often takes me out of bed at very early hours … but it is my way of ensuring the health and safety of the community I live in,” he says. “For me, when someone is having the worst day of their life, I can be there to do one thing that will make their day a little bit brighter for them.”

Double Play

Birth date: Oct. 27, 1971

Family: I have a 10-year-old daughter, Lauren, who lives with me every other week. She is my inspiration and my rock. She plays competitive volleyball with Club Smack as well as on a team at Branson RecPlex. My parents just purchased land in Reeds Spring and plan to move here in August when they retire. My girlfriend, Ladona, is part of the family as well. The three of us spend a lot of time together when I am not working or fighting fires. Without Ladona, I would not be able to do a lot of the things I do.

Philosophy to live/work by: My philosophy is to work hard, but play even harder. Live each day to the fullest; you might not get a tomorrow.

In a fantasy world, which professional sport would you play? I would be a professional racecar driver in the NASCAR Nextel Cup Series. My favorite driver is Tony Stewart, and having the honor racing with him at 180 miles per hour would be awesome.

Information accurate at the time of the honor.