Craig Shults, a dynamic finance professional based in Orange County, California, has built a career defined by resilience, ambition, and a commitment to lifelong learning. Originally from the scenic Mohawk Valley in Upstate New York, Craig’s journey has taken him across industries, from insurance to home improvement, and ultimately to his current role as Controller and CFO at JSL Construction. Along the way, he’s earned multiple degrees, including an Associate’s in General Business and certifications that underscore his dedication to continuous growth.
Outside of work, Craig is equally passionate about fitness, cooking, and travel, finding balance in activities that feed both his body and soul. He’s a firm believer in giving back, actively supporting causes like the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Craig’s story is one of resilience and reinvention, as he channels lessons from challenges to shape his professional and personal life.
How has growing up in Upstate New York influenced the way you approach business today?
Growing up in the Mohawk Valley gave me a deep appreciation for community and hard work. Life there wasn’t fast-paced like it is in Orange County, but it was grounded in relationships and the value of contributing to something bigger than yourself. These roots instilled in me the importance of collaboration and investing in people.
When I work with my team at JSL Construction, I take those lessons to heart. Whether it’s fostering trust within my team or ensuring our projects have a positive impact on the community, I always aim to bring that sense of purpose and connection to my professional life. I’ve also carried with me the understanding that success is never a solo effort—it’s built on relationships and mutual support.
What inspired your commitment to lifelong learning, and how has it shaped your career?
Lifelong learning started as a necessity but quickly became a passion. Early in my career, I realized that the business world is constantly evolving, and if you’re not evolving with it, you’re falling behind. Earning my first degree in General Business at Taft College opened my eyes to how much there was to learn—not just about business mechanics but about people, systems, and strategy.
Over the years, I pursued additional degrees in Sociology and American Studies because I wanted to understand the human and societal factors that influence the way businesses operate. These weren’t just academic pursuits; they became practical tools. When I’m looking at financial strategies or business operations, I approach them holistically, considering not just the numbers but the people and communities involved. Lifelong learning isn’t just about gaining knowledge; it’s about staying curious and adaptable, which are crucial traits for anyone in business.
What’s your process for navigating challenges, both professionally and personally?
The first step is always acknowledgement. It’s easy to get caught up in denial or frustration when challenges arise, but the sooner you face the issue head-on, the sooner you can start finding solutions. After that, I break the problem down into manageable parts and analyze it from different perspectives. I’m a big believer in seeking input from others—whether it’s colleagues, mentors, or even family members. Fresh eyes often bring clarity.
Meditation also plays a big role in how I handle challenges. Taking time to center myself helps me approach situations calmly and with a clear mind. I try to separate emotions from logic so I can focus on actionable steps. Lastly, I reflect on past challenges I’ve overcome. That perspective reminds me that I’ve faced tough situations before and come out stronger, which gives me the confidence to tackle what’s ahead.
How do you balance ambition with gratitude in your personal and professional life?
That’s a balance I’ve had to consciously work on over the years. As someone who’s naturally driven, it’s easy to get caught up in the pursuit of the next goal or milestone. But I’ve learned that gratitude is what keeps you grounded. It’s about taking a step back to appreciate the progress you’ve made, the people who’ve supported you, and the opportunities you’ve had.
One practice I’ve adopted is starting my day with reflection. I spend a few minutes thinking about what I’m grateful for, whether it’s my health, my team, or the chance to do work I’m passionate about. In business, I try to show gratitude by acknowledging the contributions of others—whether it’s a team member who went above and beyond or a client who placed their trust in us. Balancing ambition with gratitude isn’t just good for your soul; it’s also a way to build stronger relationships and create a positive work environment.
What role does giving back play in your professional philosophy?
Giving back is at the core of everything I do, both personally and professionally. I firmly believe that businesses have a responsibility to contribute to the communities that support them. For me, it’s not just about writing a check to a charity; it’s about finding ways to make a meaningful, lasting impact.
Supporting organizations like the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and Make-A-Wish Foundation has been incredibly fulfilling. These causes align with my values and remind me that success isn’t just measured in profits—it’s measured in the difference you make in people’s lives. Professionally, I’ve worked to integrate philanthropy into the business strategy at JSL Construction, ensuring that we’re not just building structures but also strengthening the communities we work in. When you give back, you’re investing in the future, and that’s something every business should prioritize.
What advice would you give to someone looking to build a resilient and impactful career?
The first thing I’d say is to embrace challenges. No career is without setbacks, and those moments of difficulty are often where the most growth happens. Don’t shy away from them; use them as opportunities to learn and adapt.
Second, invest in yourself. Whether it’s through formal education, mentorship, or personal development, make lifelong learning a priority. The more tools you have in your toolbox, the more prepared you’ll be to navigate the unexpected.
Finally, stay true to your values. It’s easy to get distracted by short-term gains, but the decisions you make should align with your core principles. Integrity, community, and a commitment to making a positive impact have guided me throughout my career, and I believe they’re the foundation of long-term success.
How has fitness and personal wellness contributed to your success?
Fitness has been a cornerstone of my life, not just for physical health but for mental clarity as well. Starting or ending my day with exercise helps me stay focused, reduces stress, and gives me the energy to tackle whatever comes my way. It’s a discipline that translates directly to my professional life.
When you take care of your body, you’re also taking care of your mind. I’ve found that my best ideas often come to me during a workout, when my mind is clear and I’m not bogged down by distractions. It’s also a way to practice resilience—pushing through a tough workout reminds me that I can push through challenges in other areas of my life as well.
What’s the legacy you hope to leave behind?
I want my legacy to be one of impact. I hope people remember me as someone who didn’t just work hard but worked to make a difference. Whether it’s through the businesses I’ve helped build, the communities I’ve supported, or the people I’ve mentored, I want to leave the world a little better than I found it.
At the end of the day, success isn’t just about what you achieve; it’s about what you give back and the lives you touch. If I can inspire others to pursue their goals with integrity, gratitude, and a commitment to helping others, then I’ll feel like I’ve done my job.