Keith Merchant
Keith Merchant grew up right here in Huntsville . His family life was the typical middle class family life . His parents worked a lot , so he spent a majority of time with his older siblings , mostly his sister .
“ There was no one particular person that influenced me during my formative years , I drew a lot from everyone around me whether it was what I should or shouldn ’ t do ,” Merchant said . “ The most important lesson I learned was actions have consequences or rewards , and that I have to own and be responsible for my actions .”
Merchant attended school his entire life in the Huntsville Independent School District .
“ I would have to say my strongest influences in my professional life would be my mother and sister . They showed me what a strong work ethic and dedication to efficiently completing a job looked like ,” Merchant said proudly .
When asked specifically about his career , Merchant had a unique perspective of his work life .
“ To be honest my job is not my career , it is a stable platform for me to take care of needs and accomplish my career goals ,” Merchant said . I have a passion for creating quality barbecue , which has led me to my career - Mr . Pete ’ s Bar-B-Que .”
Merchant said that life has defined him in all stages .
“ Everything that I ’ ve experienced and gone through has shaped me into the man I am today ,” Merchant said . “ My philosophy on life is always thank God for everything . Be true to yourself and be the best version of yourself you can be . Treat others with respect and decency . And if you can be helpful to someone , don ’ t hesitate to do so . Sometimes a smiling face is all someone needs to brighten their day .”
Merchant said his typical work day is checking emails , voicemails , and returning phone calls to start the day . Then it ’ s out to the field to work complaint and violations or spot existing violations in the community as a Code Enforcement Officer at the City of Huntsville .
“ After clocking out from the City of Huntsville , it ’ s on to Mr . Pete ’ s to do inventory , meat prep , and firing up the pit ,” Merchant said with a smile across his face .
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When asked what was skills are required to perform his day-to-day tasks , Merchant said being observant , patient , and a good communicator are the most important skills required .
“ The most challenging part of my job is getting the job done with limited resources ,” Merchant said .
When he isn ’ t working his two jobs , Merchant said one way he relaxes is spending quality time with family but also finding peace in volunteering with Mt . Zion MBC in collaboration with the Trinity River Food Bank .
“ I also value staying active in the community with the 7-OG ’ s , performing as a member of the gospel quartet group ‘ Joy of Huntsville ,’ as well as working to build what I hope to be a long-standing business
in the community ,” Merchant said .
When asked if he could change anything about himself , he chuckled and replied , “ I ’ d be skinny .” Merchant took the last question to heart . “ If I could live anywhere ?” Merchant said . “ I would live in the Great city of Huntsville , Texas .”
Written by Brenda Poe