TLMI Converter of the Year

Bankson particularly values the opportunity to work with his son, David. "We've always had a terrific relationship, both personally and professionally. During the last 15 years, we have hit very few bumps," Bankson remarks.

"While 'JB,'" as David refers to his father at the office, "is a very smart business man, he is also very easy to get along with. He gave me a lot of responsibility at a young age and allowed me to make mistakes and learn from them," he says. David explains the pros and cons of working with family: "We never had a lot of major problems because we worked out early on what was expected of each of us. He allowed me the freedom to run the manufacturing department my own way, but there was a line I knew not to cross. Luckily, he is a very patient man," he concludes.