Wayne Perry, the founder of Wayne Perry, Inc. (WPI), was a man who built more than a company—he built a legacy rooted in values that continue to guide and inspire team members to this day. An entrepreneur at the core, Wayne was also a visionary whose life was defined by courage, hard work, and an unwavering belief in the power of teamwork.
As we celebrate his life, we reflect on the principles that shaped his journey and the company he founded nearly 60 years ago—principles that remain at the heart of WPI today.
The Birth of a Company: Built on Courage and Relationships
Wayne Perry’s story began in 1968, a time of turbulence in Southern California. In the midst of civil unrest in South Central Los Angeles, Wayne took on a job that would set the course for his future. With courage and determination, he boarded up Shell’s service stations to protect them from the chaos—a bold move that demonstrated his fearlessness and dedication and became the catalyst for a journey defined by grit and the ability to build lasting relationships.
Wayne knew success wasn’t just about the work itself but about the connections he made along the way. His early partnership with Shell opened doors to new opportunities and laid the foundation for a company that would thrive on trust and collaboration and grow to become a world-class leader in construction, maintenance, and environmental remediation.
The Entrepreneurial Spirit: Growing a Team, Not Just a Business
Wayne saw potential where others saw challenges and believed in growing his team as much as growing his company. His approach to leadership was centered on the idea that a company’s strength comes from its people. He built a business and a team, fostering a culture of innovation, mutual respect, personnel safety, and shared purpose.
He understood his organization’s success was a collective achievement, driven by the dedication and hard work of every individual. His focus on teamwork remains a core value of the company today, where employees are encouraged to push beyond the boundaries and contribute to the company’s ongoing growth and success.
Hard Work and Innovation: Pioneering the Future of the Industry
Wayne’s belief in industriousness and innovation was evident in every project he undertook. He wasn’t afraid to tackle challenges head-on. From constructing fueling stations during California’s population boom to developing groundbreaking environmental remediation technologies, his work ethic was second to none.
Wayne’s leadership guided the company through decades of growth, and his pioneering spirit ensured the company stayed ahead of industry trends. His innovative mindset led to the development of some of the industry’s first soil vapor recovery extraction systems and oil-water separation technologies. His relentless pursuit of excellence set the standard for the company’s commitment to quality and environmental stewardship, values that continue to drive the business forward.
Lasting Influence: The Heart of Wayne Perry, Inc. Today
Today the core values upon which Wayne started WPI remain the heart and soul of the company. His conviction about the power of relationships, teamwork, and hard work is woven into the fabric of the company’s culture. As the company continues to thrive under the leadership of those who were inspired by Wayne’s example, the company delivers innovative solutions for a cleaner world, such as CNG and hydrogen fueling and environmental remediation techniques.
The company’s commitment to innovation, environmental responsibility, and client satisfaction is a direct reflection of the values Wayne instilled from the beginning. His legacy lives on in the way the company operates—honoring the principles he held dear, ensuring they remain at the forefront of everything the company does.
Remembering Wayne Perry: A Life Well Lived
As we remember Wayne, we celebrate a life dedicated to building something greater than one individual. Wayne’s journey was one of courage, entrepreneurialism, and a deep commitment to the people around him. His life’s work was about leaving a lasting legacy on the industry, his community, and the countless individuals who had the privilege of working with him.
Today, as WPI continues to grow and evolve, the principles Wayne championed remain the foundation upon which the company stands, ensuring his spirit will continue to inspire for generations to come. To honor his remarkable journey and lasting impact, watch the memorial video celebrating Wayne Perry’s life and legacy.
