Dean Schouest | Houma-Terrebonne Civic Center
December 18, 2019
Dr. Michael Garcia | South Louisiana Medical Associates
December 18, 2019
Founder and owner of Michael “Big Mike” Fési, Sr. (PCM), Michael “Big Mike” Fési, Sr. has been a longtime leader and innovator in the oil and gas industry. He also gives back to his community by providing weekly lunches for veterans, donating to nonprofits and performing other charitable acts. Now a newly elected State Senator representing District 20, he looks to guide the Bayou Region while revitalizing the local economy.
What path did you take that led you to where you are today?
“My upbringing was very modest by most standards. I remember my mom counting pennies to buy a loaf of bread, and I saw my parents struggle to meet the day-to-day demands of raising a family. I promised myself that my wife and children wouldn’t go without. That’s not to say there weren’t struggles along the way, but I believe anyone can succeed if they focus on three key elements: hard work, determination and patience.”
What is the biggest challenge you have faced over the years and how did you meet it?
“Early on in my career, I was a homebuilder. In the mid-80s when business was slow, I developed a process in which I would allow families to trade-in their mobile homes on the purchase of a new brick home. Not only did this help lots of families upgrade their housing, but I ended up with a number of mobile homes and eventually a mobile home park. I like finding solutions that are a win for all parties.”
How do you see your company changing in the next five years, and how do you see yourself creating that change?
“We’re registered to do business in 28 states and continue to expand that reach. Our goal is to grow internationally by 2025.”
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
“From insurance executive Art Williams, when I was 18, ‘Keep on keeping on and never give up!’”
What has been your greatest accomplishment?
“I take the most pride in having built the teams that created PCM, Inc. and the other successful companies we’ve built over the years. It’s very gratifying to help provide opportunity for professional growth and development for our 500 employees.”
Who has been your greatest influencer on your path to success?
“President Donald J. Trump has inspired me in many ways. He continues to show us all that government at all levels can and must get better and that we don’t have to settle for the status quo.”
How are you going to impact the Bayou Region in 2020?
“As you know, I was recently elected to the Louisiana Senate to represent parts of Lafourche and Terrebonne parishes. My commitment to citizens is to do everything in my power to improve the quality of life for Louisianans, especially those in the Bayou Region.”
How do you start your workday?
“I am an early riser. I’ve always believed the early bird gets the worm.”
Outside of work, what is something you are passionate about?
“I love to give back to the community. Nothing gives me more pleasure than seeing the smiles of those we help to obtain a college scholarship, to raise funds for extraordinary medical bills, or even to help put food on the table for families who hit a rough patch. I encourage everyone in the community to give back to others, whether it be gifts of time, talent or treasure.”•
