Kevin Entralgo, raised in Richmond, Texas, has carved a niche in the business world as the Vice President at SLAM Pool Management LLC. A Stephen F. Austin High School alumnus, he excelled in varsity golf and pursued PADI Rescue Diving. His academic journey took him from the University of Houston to graduating with Finance and Accounting credentials from The University of Texas at Austin’s McCombs School of Business. Kevin’s ethos centers on hard work, integrity, and a balanced approach to life. Passionate about outdoor activities like hiking and scuba diving, he exemplifies how personal passions can harmonize with professional ambitions to forge a fulfilling career.

Q&A with Kevin Entralgo

Can you tell us about your early life and family background?

Kevin Entralgo: I grew up in Richmond, Texas, in a close-knit family. My parents, Richard and Janis Entralgo, raised me alongside my brother John and my sister Melissa Green. Family has always been a cornerstone in my life, providing both support and inspiration.

What were your high school years like?

Kevin Entralgo: I attended Stephen F. Austin High School, where I was part of the varsity golf team. Those years were pivotal in developing my love for sports and outdoor activities. Additionally, I became a certified Rescue Diver through PADI, which was an early indicator of my passion for adventure and the outdoors.

How did your academic journey shape your career path?

Kevin Entralgo: After starting my college education at the University of Houston, I transferred to The University of Texas at Austin, aiming to join the McCombs School of Business. Despite a high GPA, it was challenging to get accepted due to the school’s competitive nature. This period taught me the importance of hard work and perseverance, eventually leading to my graduation in 2010 with a major in Finance and a minor in Accounting.

What is your current professional role, and what are your hobbies?

Kevin Entralgo: Currently, I am the Vice President at SLAM Pool Management LLC. Outside of work, I’m passionate about hiking, backpacking, scuba diving, kayaking, sailing, and spending time on beaches. These activities not only provide relaxation but also keep me connected to nature.

How do you define success, and what strategies helped you achieve it?

Kevin Entralgo: For me, success is a blend of perfection, hard work, learning from failure, loyalty, and persistence. Setting Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound goals has been crucial. Overcoming challenges, such as gaining admission to McCombs, reinforced the importance of these principles.

Who has been a major influence in your life and career?

Kevin Entralgo: My father has been my biggest influence. His journey from moving to the United States, overcoming language and socioeconomic barriers, and stressing the importance of hard work while maintaining a work/life balance has profoundly shaped my outlook.

What qualities do you believe are essential for business success?

Kevin Entralgo: Honesty, integrity, and effective communication are key. Trustworthiness in business relationships is non-negotiable, and being dependable is equally important. Also, facing challenges with a growth mindset and viewing problems as opportunities for learning and collaboration is essential.

How do you approach troubleshooting and innovation in your industry?

Kevin Entralgo: Troubleshooting with clients and vendors is a learning opportunity that expands industry knowledge. I believe in operating with an open mindset to embrace innovation, which keeps one at the forefront of their industry.

What’s your perspective on measuring success?

Kevin Entralgo: Success measurement is a combination of self-assessment, peer feedback, and meeting self-imposed standards. It’s important to learn from both positive feedback and constructive criticism, using them as tools for continuous growth.

Lastly, can you speak to the balance between professional and personal success?

Kevin Entralgo: Professional success cannot exist in a vacuum; it’s intrinsically linked to personal success. Establishing a healthy routine and staying active in personal life lays a strong foundation for professional achievements. It’s crucial to build steadily to ensure that one aspect of success doesn’t undermine the other.

Key Takeaways

• The Importance of Perseverance in Education and Career: Kevin’s experience of transferring from the University of Houston to the competitive McCombs School of Business at The University of Texas highlights the value of hard work and persistence. Despite initial setbacks, he demonstrated that dedication and a strong work ethic can overcome challenges, leading to academic and professional success.
• The Role of Family and Personal Values in Success: Kevin credits his father as a major influence in his life, emphasizing the importance of family values, hard work, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. His father’s journey and teachings instilled in him the virtues of honesty, integrity, and the significance of stepping out of one’s comfort zone for personal growth.
• Setting SMART Goals for Achievement: Kevin stresses the importance of setting Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound (SMART) goals. This approach to goal-setting has been pivotal in his journey, ensuring that his aspirations are clear, trackable, and attainable. This principle is a key takeaway for anyone looking to achieve success in both their personal and professional life.