Top of the Chain with Ron DeMedio

CO-OWNER, INTERNATIONAL GATE DEVICES

Being an entrepreneur isn’t for everyone, but when it fits, it’s a perfect match. Ron DeMedio, co-owner of International Gate Devices, shares his passion for running his business and how perfectionism is the enemy of getting things done.

International Gate Devices, located in Folsom, Pennsylvania, is a single source supplier for bolt on and weld on track systems for cantilever slide gates. Their field-experienced personnel provide technical support before, during and after installation.

WHAT MOTIVATED YOU TO START YOUR OWN COMPANY?

I knew I wanted to control my own destiny. When working as an entrepreneur, you’re likely to be more motivated than someone who doesn’t have a career path in place. You are more productive because your vision stretches beyond the task or project at hand.

WHEN DID YOU LAUNCH INTERNATIONAL GATE DEVICES?

We started International Gate Devices in 1981, about 43 years ago, with the idea of “the better mouse trap” for cantilever gates systems.

WHAT ARE ONE OR TWO QUALITIES YOU HAVE THAT HAVE HELPED YOU SUCCEED IN THE FENCING INDUSTRY?

The main qualities that have helped me in the fence industry, and can be applied to any entrepreneurial business owner, are the willingness to take the risk and have a good work ethic.

Owning your own business is not a 40-hour-per-week job. It is a 24/7 commitment to your future.

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE ADVANTAGES OF CANTILEVER GATES?

One of the main advantages of using a cantilever gate system is that it’s simple to automate. The ease of automation of this style of gate is because no part of the gate meets the ground. They are also very easy to install and to level perfectly. Less space is needed for a cantilever gate versus a swing gate.

WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNED WHILE RUNNING A BUSINESS?

Perfection is the greatest obstacle to productivity. Perfection has no place in the world of entrepreneurship. You must weigh the opportunity cost of letting perfectionism slow you down. If you won’t send something until it is perfect, you’re not pulling the trigger quickly enough.

Mark Cuban, businessman, investor, philanthropist and part of the TV show Shark Tank, said it best, “Perfectionism is the enemy of profitability.”

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY ABOUT YOUR JOB?

I enjoy the independence of working at my own company. Your job shouldn’t just be a source of income. If you don’t enjoy what you do, you’ll end up missing out on life. There’s nothing worse than getting up every day and hate going to work. I love Monday morning; that’s when things start to happen.

For more information about International Gate Devices, visit www.slidegate.net.