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A Conversation With Garret Peck: Balancing Leadership, Community, and Family with Purpose

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Garrett Peck is a seasoned professional and community leader based in Plainfield, Illinois, known for his integrity, work ethic, and deep commitment to service.

Originally from Pennsylvania, Garrett holds a degree in business administration and has built a successful career in supply chain management, where he excels at optimizing operations and solving complex logistical challenges. His leadership and problem-solving skills have earned him recognition within the industry.

Beyond his professional success, Garrett is deeply involved in his local community. He actively volunteers with food banks, schools, and the Plainfield Chamber of Commerce, where he helps foster collaboration between businesses and residents. Garrett is also passionate about mentoring youth through sports, using athletics as a platform to teach life skills and build confidence.

A devoted husband and father of two, Garrett Peck prioritizes family and maintains a strong work-life balance. He enjoys outdoor activities like biking and tennis, is an avid sports fan, and has a creative side expressed through photography and a love for the arts. Whether in the boardroom or on the sidelines, Garrett leads with purpose, compassion, and a dedication to making a positive impact in every area of his life.

What first inspired your interest in business and supply chain management?

Growing up in Pennsylvania, I was always fascinated by how things moved—how products got from one place to another, how businesses ran behind the scenes. I was the kid who asked how everything worked, not just the final product but the entire process behind it. That curiosity only grew stronger when I went to college and pursued a degree in business administration. I discovered that supply chain management was like the nervous system of a company—vital, complex, and constantly evolving. I loved the challenge it presented and the tangible impact it could make, not only on a business’s efficiency but on its customer satisfaction and bottom line.

What brought you to Plainfield, Illinois, and how did you begin building your reputation there?

After college, I was looking for a fresh start in a place that offered both opportunity and a strong sense of community. Plainfield checked all those boxes. It had that hometown feel but was growing rapidly, especially in terms of business and infrastructure. I started working with a reputable logistics firm here and quickly realized that the community valued reliability and hard work. I made it a point to show up, not just at work but also for my neighbors, local events, and volunteer opportunities. Over time, people saw I wasn’t just passing through—I was here to stay and to contribute.

What do you consider the most rewarding part of your career in supply chain management?

The most rewarding part is seeing how my work makes a real difference. In logistics, you’re constantly solving puzzles—whether it’s rerouting shipments due to weather delays or redesigning workflows to save costs and improve delivery times. When you optimize something and see the results in real-time, it’s incredibly fulfilling. Beyond the numbers, though, I enjoy mentoring younger professionals and helping them grow in their roles. Watching someone I’ve coached rise through the ranks is a reward all its own.

You’ve done a lot of volunteer work in Plainfield. What drives your commitment to community service?

I believe that success means very little if you’re not using it to lift others. Giving back is something I learned from my parents, who were always involved in our local church and neighborhood projects. When I moved to Plainfield, I knew I wanted to be more than just a resident—I wanted to be a participant. Volunteering at food banks, helping out at local schools, and working with the Plainfield Chamber of Commerce allows me to stay grounded and connected. There’s something powerful about being part of a collective effort to improve lives right in your own backyard.

How has being a husband and father influenced your approach to work and leadership?

It’s been transformative. Family keeps me centered. My wife and kids are my greatest motivation and biggest supporters. Being a father has taught me patience, empathy, and the importance of leading by example—qualities that have made me a more thoughtful and effective leader at work. It’s also pushed me to be intentional with my time. I aim for a healthy work-life balance because I want to be present, not just successful. I want my kids to see that dedication at home is just as important as dedication in the workplace.

How do you make time for your hobbies and passions outside of work and family responsibilities?

It’s definitely a balancing act, but I prioritize it because I believe in being a well-rounded person. Sports are my outlet—I play in a local tennis league and go biking whenever I can. Photography is another passion. It allows me to slow down and see beauty in the everyday moments, whether it’s a family picnic or a sunset ride. I also love going to the theater and supporting local artists. When I make time for these things, I come back to work and family life refreshed and with new perspective.

Can you tell us more about your involvement with youth mentorship through sports?

Absolutely. Coaching and mentoring young people through sports has been one of the most fulfilling parts of my life. I’ve seen firsthand how sports can teach discipline, teamwork, and resilience—qualities that translate into every area of life. I work with local leagues to guide kids not just in playing the game, but in building confidence and character. Sometimes all a young person needs is someone who believes in them. Being that person, even for one kid, is incredibly powerful.

What do you think makes a great community, and how can individuals help build one?

A great community thrives on connection, empathy, and shared responsibility. It’s not just about what the local government or businesses do—it’s about individuals choosing to show up for each other. Whether it’s helping a neighbor with yard work, attending a school fundraiser, or supporting local shops, every small act contributes to a stronger whole. I believe in creating spaces where people feel valued and seen. If each of us gives a little, the collective impact can be massive.

How do you handle challenges or setbacks in your career and life?

I see challenges as opportunities to grow. Of course, in the moment, setbacks can be frustrating, even discouraging. But I’ve learned to take a step back and ask myself, “What can I learn from this?” That mindset shift makes all the difference. I also lean on my support system—my wife, mentors, and colleagues. I don’t believe in going it alone. Sometimes a new perspective or word of encouragement is all it takes to regroup and move forward stronger than before.

What legacy do you hope to leave behind, both professionally and personally?

Professionally, I hope people say I was a leader who listened, who elevated others, and who made systems better than he found them. Personally, I want to be remembered as a man of integrity, a loving husband and father, and someone who genuinely cared about others. If I can leave behind a community that’s a little stronger, a family that feels deeply loved, and a few people whose lives I made better along the way—that’s the legacy I’m striving for.