Six questions with Nate Welch, the vice president of operations for Cross Gates Family Fitness.
1. How did you get your start in the fitness industry?
I jumped from the finance sector to selling memberships. I was recruited by the owner who really pitched a long-term happy life that I could envision for me and my family. I was 23 at the time. As I experienced success in that role, I was slowly invited to take on more departments and projects. Eventually this led to taking on a new acquisition in 2014 and now the whole company. The rest is history.
2. What’s been a key to your organization’s success? What are you most proud of?
Sales, marketing and value. Cross Gates Family Fitness has grown into a brand people associate with in the same way they would with their immediate family. People love and trust our brand. It’s a vital part of their lifestyle. I’m most proud of the team we have that makes this brand so special in our community.
3. What has been one of the biggest accomplishments of your career?
Observing the growth and evolution of the individuals within my team, witnessing them establish fulfilling and successful lifestyles, brings me immense joy. I’ve had the privilege of witnessing front desk team members ascend to managerial positions, while others have pursued advanced education such as MBA programs, all while continuing to utilize their talents within our organization. I’ve seen team members relocate and successfully work remotely, maintaining their growth and development in tandem with the company’s progress. Additionally, it’s been heartwarming to witness new hires making a significant impact on our organization while finding a supportive and nurturing work family that they have long desired. To my team, you know who you are.
4. What has been one of the biggest challenges you’ve faced in your career? How did you overcome it?
The COVID-19 pandemic. Staying focused on first principles one day at a time. Your systems are tested in a period like this. We had to scale down and then back up every piece of the company. Stress test your systems to failure often. It’s not a matter of if, but rather when you will be tested again by the market.
5. What is one lesson you have learned that other fitness professionals can learn from?
- Scaling is about becoming advanced in the simple things that made you successful in the beginning.
- Decision making becomes the most important skill for a leader.
- If you can sell, you can do anything.
6. Tell us a fact about yourself that others may not know.
I’m a huge Elon Musk fan.
