Meet the Perdido Key Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors - Curtis Cantrell
Interview with Curtis – Founder & CEO of SouthTel and Past Board Chairman of Perdido Key Area Chamber of Commerce
Introduction and Background:
Q: What is your business or profession, and how does it contribute to the Perdido Key community?
A: I run a telecommunications company that provides voice and data networking services to the Perdido Key community and beyond.
Q: Can you briefly describe your role or job within your business?
A: I’m the CEO and founder of the company, which I started 42 years ago at the age of 19. We’ve grown into a nationwide provider of telephone services.
Q: Can you please introduce yourself and briefly describe your current position within the Chamber's Board of Directors?
A: I’m Curtis, a past Board Chairman of the Perdido Key Area Chamber of Commerce.
Q: How long have you been a member of the Perdido Key Area Chamber of Commerce?
A: I’ve been a member for several years.
Involvement with the Chamber:
Q: What motivated you to start getting involved with the Chamber, and how did you initially become a member?
A: We started working with other companies that were Chamber members and got more involved when we purchased a building in the Perdido Key area.
Q: Could you share a memorable experience or achievement during your tenure with the Chamber?
A: Winning the Small Business of the Year award was a major milestone for us, and becoming the Board Chair was another proud moment.
Impact of Serving on the Board:
Q: In what ways has serving on the Chamber's Board of Directors positively impacted you personally and professionally?
A: It has enhanced my reputation in the business community and allowed me to meet people I might not have met otherwise.
Advice for Chamber Members:
Q: Based on your experience, what advice would you offer to new or existing Chamber members looking to maximize their involvement and benefits?
A: My first advice to new or potential chamber members are to get involved with the networking opportunities, join a committee and remember your investment in the chamber will produce dividends if you get involved.
Personal Insights:
Q: Beyond your professional endeavors, could you share a hobby or interest that you're passionate about?
A: I’m a Lieutenant with the Lillian Fire Department and the operations officer for the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Pensacola.
Q: What drives your commitment to community involvement, and are there any other organizations or causes you're passionate about supporting?
A: I believe that giving back to my community makes me a better person and a better leader in the community.
Future Outlook:
Q: Looking ahead, what do you envision for the future of the Perdido Key Area Chamber?
A: I hope to see the Chamber continue to grow and be a positive force in the development of the Perdido Key area.
