Steve Elliott – Better than we Deserve

Steve Elliott joined BRW in 1994 as Employee #16. Because Steve is synonymous with BRW’s USPS practice, some might be surprised to learn that his first project with BRW was actually an elementary school. He recalls it as a fun project, but it wasn’t long before he got involved with some small repair projects at USPS’ Dallas plant and started settling into what would become his niche. Steve dedicated most of his 26 years at BRW to working on postal R & A projects. The variety of projects, locations, and people appealed to his natural curiosity and love of a good backstory. He’s particularly enjoyed the people and takes pride in serving as a valuable resource for the essential services USPS performs.

BRW wasn’t the first stop on Steve’s career path. He spent 12 years working at other firms, before finding his way to 3535 Travis Street. The cooperative spirit and supportive environment he found here made it feel like home. And now, as Steve enters retirement, he’ll tell you the work was often challenging, always interesting, and (most of the time) fun. He’s going to miss it a little, but it’s the people – the clients, contractors, and BRW staff that he’s really going to miss. To the next generation at BRW, he offers this advice:

Listen and learn. Everything is important. Watch for the repetition. Learn and get better.

When you ask Steve about his legacy, he’ll tell you about the contributions BRW has made to USPS operations. When you ask those who’ve worked with him, they’ll tell you about his enthusiasm for the work, his belief that no task is too mundane, and his vast knowledge of his client. But his real legacy is the part he has played in defining the culture of BRW – a culture of mentorship. He has left his mark with a smile that never fades and support that never falters.

In the words of Ralph Waldo Emerson, “The purpose of life is not to be happy. It is to be useful, to be honorable, to be compassionate, to have it make some difference that you have lived and lived well.” So, Steve, as you enjoy your retirement with your ‘First Wife’ Kay, your kids, and your grandkids, rest in the knowledge that you have indeed made quite a difference in the lives of your BRW family.

You will be missed, but we expect to see you at the next BRW Hootenanny!