JWF Defense Systems chief encourages gathering

By SHAWN PIATEK
The Tribune-Democrat

May 14, 2008 12:01 am

— Scotch whisky probably wasn’t on the minds of most of the people attending John Polacek’s presentation Tuesday at the Holiday Inn Express in Richland Township.
But each person in attendance for the first installment of the Business and Boomerangs speaker series was handed a mini bottle of Dewar’s as they entered the room.
Polacek, chief operating officer of JWF Defense Systems, wasn’t trying to encourage a cocktail breakfast among the nearly 40 in attendance.
The bottle, he said, is symbolic. It should serve to remind the entrepreneurs and young business people in the audience that they are “Doers,” capable of achieving whatever goals they set for themselves.
It was an appropriate message to kick off the series, which is presented by the business committee of the Young Professionals of the Alleghenies.
Eileen Graham, co-chairwoman of the committee, said the series is designed to pass along knowledge and showcase those who have been successful in the region. A new installment will be added every other month.
In the months between the speaker events, Graham said the committee is planning social outings geared toward networking.
“We had such a great response, especially considering this was the first event,” Graham said. “We limited the event to 40 seats, and we nearly had a full house.
“And John’s story is such a phenomenal one. He’s had so many great experiences for us to learn from and he made a perfect first speaker.”
Polacek said he was happy to oblige the group’s request. He said he is a firm believer in community service.
“Once you get to a certain level, community service is a key responsibility that you owe to the next generation,” Polacek said.
“Talking to these young people about my story hopefully gives them something to discuss with their families and friends and will play a part in helping to reverse the brain drain.
“I certainly would encourage the region’s leaders to consider taking part in this series. It’s a great way to interact with our region’s next generation of leaders and to show that you can succeed at very high levels right here in Johnstown.”