Everett Pearson, co-founder of Warren-based Pearson Yachts, was recently honored by the Smaller Business Association of New England Educational Center with The Pro Bono Publico Award, which recognizes industry-leading entrepreneurs. In 1957, Pearson Yachts was one of the first boat builders to use fiberglass in boat manufacturing. Pearson also helped establish Tillotson Pearson Inc. and TPI Composites, a manufacturer of industrial products and yachts.
PBN: What was your first job?
PEARSON: While in high school in 1950, my cousin and I ran a grocery-delivery business for the Providence Public Market on Broad Street in Pawtucket. We delivered groceries anywhere in Pawtucket for 50 cents per bag.
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PBN: What is the best part of your day?
PEARSON: Crack of dawn when I go for a three-mile walk.
PBN: What drives you personally?
PEARSON: The challenge of creating a new product. I enjoy thinking about and solving technical problems and creating methods to make the production of the product as efficient as possible.
PBN: What is the key to success at your job?
PEARSON: Perseverance and dedication to the task at hand.
PBN: What advice would you give to someone looking to break into your field?
PEARSON: Breaking into the composite business today is more difficult than it was 50 years ago. I would suggest try to work for a reputable firm in the field of your choice to gain knowledge of the industry and then strike out on your own once you have an idea for a product. If you intend to manufacture locally, the product has to require very little labor or you will not be able to compete with foreign manufacturers.
PBN: What do you like to do when you aren’t at work?
PEARSON: I enjoy playing golf.
PBN: What’s the last book you read?
PEARSON: “The West’s Last Chance” by Tony Blankley.
