From Billboards to Grandkids: Jim Poage

From Billboards to Grandkids: Jim Poage on Life After 30 Years in the Industry

OOH Today: After almost 30 years in the billboard industry, you’re officially retiring! How does it feel to step away from such a long career?

Jim: It feels a little surreal, honestly. For nearly three decades, safety in the out of home advertising world has been my everyday life — from Eller Media to Clear Channel Outdoor to Formetco Inc. But I’m excited to take a deep breath and enjoy a different pace. And my impending retirement was actually tipped back in April when I changed my LinkedIn employment status from Formetco to James Poage LLC.  Several friends contacted me to find out what was going on, so I had a little explaining to do.

OOH Today: Looking back, what are you most proud of in your career?

Jim: Honestly, it’s the people. I got to work with amazing crews and colleagues. Helping create an industry culture where safety wasn’t just a rule, but part of how we worked, that’s something I’ll always carry with me. I’m also proud of the time I spent supporting and staying involved with the OAAA and the IBOUSA. Those organizations have done so much to strengthen the industry, and being part of that community was really meaningful to me.

OOH Today: Formetco was your last stop before retirement. What was that experience like?

Jim: Formetco has been absolutely wonderful! They’ve been so supportive, not just of me but of safety as a priority for the whole industry. It’s rare to find a company that really walks the talk, but they do — and it made my last chapter in this career such a rewarding one. And the good news is, Formetco is now looking for my replacement. So, if anyone out there has a passion for safety in the billboard industry, they should contact Brian Labella at the Formetco Duluth office.

OOH Today: Retirement usually means slowing down — but we hear you’re not done yet.

Jim: That’s true. I’ll still do some consulting projects in the industry, and Formetco has asked me to provide a couple more client safety classes. After 30 years, I can’t just turn it off. But I also want to spend more time visiting my kids and grandkids. And I’m looking forward to getting more involved in charity work. It feels good to give back.

OOH Today: We would like to thank you for everything you have done to make our industry safer and to protect everyone in our community.

Jim: Thank you for saying that, and I look for to seeing everyone on a social level in the future!

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