High-performing teams are built by leaders who set the tone and teammates who challenge each other to be better every day. That’s exactly what defines Michael Blanchard’s team.
Built on Accountability
For Michael, success starts with the habits his team commits to every day. He believes consistency is earned through hard work, accountability, and a shared commitment to doing right by their customers. Rather than settling for what’s expected, the team is always looking for ways to improve and keep moving forward. Riley Mason sees that same commitment reflected in the team’s daily habits. “Showing up on time and every day ready to work keeps us all accountable,” Riley said. He believes encouraging one another and creating a positive environment allows everyone to perform at their best.
The Power of the Team
Every team encounters obstacles. Michael believes the difference is how you respond. During a recent market shift, his team leaned on one another to share information, communicate openly, and work through conversations together. That willingness to collaborate strengthened not only the team internally but also the trust they continue to build with customers every day. For Riley, communication plays a major role in that success. Staying ahead of market trends and maintaining transparency with both customers and carrier partners allows the team to provide consistent service.
Competitive by Nature
When Tyler Thompson was asked to describe the team in three words, his answer was immediate: Competitive. Consistent. Connected. That competitive spirit extends far beyond results.
According to Tyler, Trevor Howell’s jokes, loud music, and personality help keep the team’s energy high throughout the week. Michael believes that’s part of what makes the group unique.
“We take our work seriously, but we don’t take ourselves too seriously.”
Whether they’re celebrating milestones with a crawfish boil or recognizing everyday wins, the team understands that success is even better when it’s shared.
More Than the Work
For Trevor Howell, the team's biggest impact has been the relationships he’s built along the way. He credits Axle with helping him grow professionally while providing opportunities that have positively impacted his family and career. More importantly, he knows he can rely on the people around him.
“Everyone’s always willing to jump in, help out, and figure things out together when things get crazy,” Trevor said. “We work hard, laugh a lot, and somehow still get it all done.”
Ben Gordon summed up the team’s identity in just a few words: Building empires, building teams, and building memories.
That reflects the leadership Michael brings to the team every day.
“If I focus on their success, their growth, and their careers, mine grows in turn. It’s not about me. It’s about my crew.”
It’s a simple mindset, but it’s one that has helped build a team defined by accountability, resilience, and genuine care for one another. Together, they continue to raise the standard while demonstrating what it truly means to be Team Axle.
