Two Minutes with Paul Mercer, Commissioner of the Maine Department of Environmental Protection
How long have you been the Commissioner of the Maine DEP? What’s your best experience thus far?
2 ½ years, working with dedicated staff and being part of a great management team.
How has being a member of ECOS benefited you?
We all seem to have similar problems and issues, differing in magnitude. I find the open discussions, sharing of resolve, and solutions very beneficial.
What is the best management advice you’ve received?
Surround yourself with good people, empower them to do their jobs, and get out of the way.
Tell us about your morning ritual.
I try to arrive around 9 a.m. By this time, management and staff have resolved the overnight and early morning hot button items.
What was your childhood dream job?
Quarterback of the New York Giants because the New England Patriots did not exist during my childhood.
What’s your favorite moment of your career so far?
I have been fortunate to have had a very diversified career. As Commissioner, hopefully I’ve earned the trust and respect of co-workers while promoting grey as a color that exists somewhere between black and white.
What leader do you most admire?
Winston Churchill
What was your first real job?
I worked as boiler operator (fireman) on an old steam propulsion tug boat with my grandfather.
What can you not live without?
Family
If Hollywood made a movie of your life, who would you like to see play the lead role as you?
W.C. Fields
