Name: Greg Slater
LT Class Year: Insight Class of 2022
Company: Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority
Interviewed by: Laura Frost
Laura Frost recently had the pleasure of catching up with Greg, a graduate of the Insight Class of 2022 and proud member of LTA. We met for coffee at one of his favorite Channelside spots, Ginger Brew. Our conversation traversed from his interest in environmental engineering and saving Chesapeake Crabs to how he landed in Tampa with the Hillsborough Expressway Authority.
A lifelong lover of the outdoors and water, he and his spouse made the move from Maryland to downtown Tampa, embracing the vibrant urban lifestyle as empty nesters.
Other relatable topics of convo: HART 1 Bus Route, now free to riders and Congestion Fees—a strategy to reduce traffic during peak hours.
Greg’s approach to leadership is grounded in his mantra: "Listen like you could be wrong."
- Tell us, why Insight?. I was new to town and wanted to connect with other community leaders. Insight allowed me to do that.
- For you, what separates LTA from other business leadership programs? The ongoing Tampa Bay Chamber benefits, relationships and access/ability to connect with leaders at all levels in all industries.
- Describe a time when the LTA experience impacted your life or career? To me, it’s always about the people and the community. I still connect with many of the people from my Insight class in work situations.
- What is a LTA benefit you wish everyone knew about? The welcoming environment, access and events.
- Describe how the leadership journey will continue to shape you?
The leadership journey to me is about continually being on that journey. I benefited from mentors over the years both formally and informally. That’s why I am a stage setter, doing a lot of mentoring of young professionals. I get as much from helping them as they get from me…my career growth continues as I mentor.
Fun Facts About You/Local Knowledge:
- Latest movie, book, streaming series or a combination?
Gladiator II and also, just watched the Netflix series, Black Doves with Keira Knightley.
- Favorite spot to meet friends/colleagues for coffee, lunch or happy hour?
Coffee right here at Ginger Brew, lunch at Sparkman Wharf and HH Yard House of Salt Shack.
- For staycation in Tampa Bay, you like to……go to the beach!
- When out-of-town guests are visiting, you plan….a trip to the beach!
- Any hidden treasures/recent discoveries you’d like to share?!
Living in downtown Tampa, I’m discovering all the classic Tampa events like boat parades, Gasparilla and various festivals. Downtown is amazing.
- Any upcoming initiatives/passion projects we need to know about?
Lots of projects coming your way with the THEA! It’s sometimes painful to build stuff but always fun.