Full name: Andrew Bascom McCandless
Title: President and Owner
Company: Bascom-Hunter
Hometown: Houma, LA
Why do you do what you do?
Two years ago my wife, Stephanie, and I were living in Maryland and wanted to come back to Louisiana. I had wanted to be involved with a number of organizations, helping them become more successful. So I started Bascom-Hunter, a consulting company that offers business and technology development services.
What is your greatest professional accomplishment?
Starting Mezzo Technologies, an LSU spin-off company.
What was your first job?
When I was twelve I started a grass cutting service.
What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
When I was going off to college I intended to get an economics degree and go into politics. My dad convinced me to get a mechanical engineering degree, go into business, and accomplish something before starting a political career. I am still very passionate about politics, but Dad was right.
Who do you most admire in the local business community and why?
Lane Grigsby. He is a very successful businessman who is focused on giving back to the community through his involvement in politics. In addition, he spends a considerable amount of time with people like myself, trying to make us better people.
If you could have any job other than your own, what would it be?
I want to be involved with Louisiana airports. I have a burning desire to improve the airports in Louisiana and would love to be part of any effort that furthers this goal.
What is the greatest personal or professional obstacle you’ve overcome?
Getting my Mechanical Engineering Degree from LSU, while working full time as President of Mezzo.
If you started over, what would you do differently?
I have made many mistakes and, in most cases, have had to pay for the mistakes, but I think these experiences have made me a better person. I cannot think of anything I want to change.
What is your prescription for life?
Hard work, persistence, and time can solve almost any problem.
What book are you currently reading?
Grover Cleveland by Frank Graff
If you could have dinner with any three living people, who would they be? (Authors? Leaders?)
George Bush, Laura Bush, and my wife Stephanie.
Who would play you in a movie?
Harry Connick, Jr.
What do you do to unwind?
Carpentry work on weekends. When I was a kid my dad and I would always have a weekend project. One of the goals for the projects was to teach me the basics of woodworking, plumbing, electrical, and so forth. I have always enjoyed building and see myself as a builder of things. Sometimes I am building a house; other times I am building a business. I find it very gratifying to start with just an idea and then build something that can outlast your involvement in the effort.
What is the most expensive purchase you’ve made for yourself?
My home.
What is your favorite weekend activity?
Going swimming with my kids.
What’s your theme song?
My Way by Frank Sinatra
What’s your favorite spot in Baton Rouge?
My backyard.
How do you take your coffee/tea?
Coffee with cream.
What is your favorite movie? TV show? Band?
Movie: Shawshank Redemption; TV Show: Survivorman; and Band: Willie Nelson.
What is your favorite gadget?
BlackBerry
What is something that you can’t live without?
Family
If you could change one thing about Baton Rouge, what would it be?
I would put a much greater focus on investment in airports. I believe that good airports are one of the most important factors in a region’s long-term economic growth.
What is your greatest hope for Baton Rouge?
Consistent long-term economic growth.
What is your greatest fear for Baton Rouge?
That it will turn into an average mid-sized city and lose its “Louisiana” culture.
