While working as a programmer at a clothing manufacturer in Greenville, SC in my early career, I had the opportunity to work for a man who encouraged my creativity and problem solving. Even though I was a junior employee, he listened to my input about improving the inventory process the company used at that time. He never belittled me or made me feel less-than despite my relative lack of experience. He inspired my approach to the input of my employees today -- everyone is at the table for a reason and everyone's input is valuable and needed for my company to stay current and well-rounded.