Bill Smith: the big dog of Big-D.

• Author: Stevenson, Brooks
• Position: People - Biography

The dogs may bark, but the caravan moves on." This may seem an odd statement for a CEO of a multimillion dollar company to adopt as his creed. Guys in Bill Smith's position typically don't even hear the dogs; they pass right by them. But humility and optimism are exactly what have helped make Smith so successful in his 17-year career wish Big-D Corporation. His head's not in the clouds, it's on his shoulders, level with the rest of his colleagues and co-workers, working on a team so make Big-D one of the premier construction companies in the West.

Smith was born in construction. His father was in the business, and for most of his life, Smith has earned a living in some facet or another of the industry. After helping his father for many years, Smith went to school to understand the business angle of it all. Armed with formal training, and an expansive knowledge of building, he was a perfect match for Big-D's business model, and soon they were knocking down his door to bring him aboard.

Now, as CEO of the company, he still possesses the characteristics that got him there. "I've always trusted people and surrounded myself with those stronger than me," says Smith. "Everything I've achieved is because of the success of my co-workers."

Smith eagerly deflects praise to others and speaks ardently about the importance of trusting people, empowering them and praising them endlessly. He respects others' roles and keenly understands his own: "I sort of keep the rocks out of the road for others to succeed."

Make no mistake: You don't...