UAA College of Business and Public Policy

The College of Business and Public Policy's Leadership Fellows Program pairs high-performing CBPP students with a mentor in the Anchorage business community, giving students the opportunity to learn about real-world leadership from local business leaders. This year’s cohort includes 21 CBPP students, called protégés, and their mentors. To begin the program, each protégé interviewed their new mentor, and every week, we will feature one of these interviews with the mentors, who share their thoughts on leadership. This week’s featured protégé/mentor pairing is Paul Shadura III, and his mentor, Matt Dimmick.

1 Where are you from? How did you decide to pursue a career in Alaska?  “ I’m originally from Louisiana. At the age of 11, I spent the summer with my Aunt and Uncle in Alaska and knew that I would be back. I moved up at the age of 18 and started working at an Auto Parts Store in Anchorage. I met an executive for Shell Oil (his son was the quarterback on our team) and was given an opportunity to work on the oilrigs.”

2 Where did you go to college? What did you study in college?  “When the oilfield work slowed down, I returned home and spent six weeks at the University of Southwestern Louisiana. I quickly discovered that this wasn’t my path and took another opportunity in Alaska working in the oilfield.

My brother-in-law offered me a job on the North Slope. While working up there, I got into equipment leasing and sales. Over time, I found that the folks I worked with were also looking for places to live in Anchorage. So, when I went home after each “hitch” I would gather information on available homes in the area and return to work on the slope with all the information in-hand. ”

3 Did you have anyone you relied on for mentorship/solid career advice? If yes, what is the most important leadership advice they shared with you?  “Specifically, my dad was a big mentor for me. He worked in sales within the oil industry and always used to say: “Try and remember people’s names.” It was important for connecting with people and they really appreciated it! It can make you a lot more effective.”

4 It is important and beneficial for CBPP and Anchorage’s business community to collaborate and invest in the next generation of leaders. What do you think should be conveyed to our next generation of leaders? 
• Don’t be afraid of hard work! Set the example.
• Always remember that one transaction/deal is not worth your reputation. It could cost you dearly in the long run.

5 CBPP will be highlighting each mentor and protégé pairing on the front of it’s website during the academic year. Do I have your permission to have this interview and our mentor/protégé pairing highlighted on the website? Is there anything else you would like to add? “Yes, you have my permission.

As a business person, it has become evident that great leaders bring up others. They gain success through the success of those individuals.

I have had the opportunity to associate with excellent leaders who had poured knowledge and experience into me. I want to continue that legacy and feel that it is absolutely critical.”