brendan gaylord

The Unconventional Edge: How Diverse Backgrounds Drive Innovation at AG Consulting Partners

In the dynamic world of modern consulting, what truly defines a successful strategist or problem-solver? Is it a rigid academic lineage, a predictable career climb, or something far more nuanced and human? At AG Consulting Partners, the answer is unequivocally the latter. We believe that an individual's unique tapestry of experiences, passions, and unconventional paths is not just tolerated, but celebrated and leveraged as a powerful differentiator. This month, we're pulling back the curtain on two exemplary members of our team, Aaron Xavier and Brendan Gaylord, whose journeys beautifully illustrate how diverse talents converge to create unparalleled value for our clients.

Their stories aren't just about professional achievements; they're about the rich interplay between personal history, insatiable curiosity, and the drive to make a tangible impact. From the intricate harmonies of a jazz orchestra to the raw energy of a metal band, these consultants embody the spirit of innovation that sets AGCP apart.

Beyond the Blueprint: Crafting a Unique Professional Journey

Many assume that consulting careers are reserved for those who follow a highly traditional corporate ladder. But at AGCP, we see the power in unexpected detours and the profound insights gained from navigating a less-traveled road. Our consultants bring not just technical expertise, but also a distinctive perspective born from rich life experiences.

From Orchestras to Enterprise Tech: Aaron Xavier's Harmonious Transition

Imagine mastering the complex layering of brass sections, understanding the delicate balance of orchestration, and performing professionally. That's precisely the foundation upon which Aaron Xavier built his early career. Growing up in Bonney Lake, his passion for music led him to rigorous classical training, followed by a deep dive into jazz composition and big-band arrangement. This wasn't just a hobby; it was a full-time commitment that saw him relocate to San Francisco, working as a professional musician for global giants like Adobe and Facebook.

So, how does a jazz musician become a Principal Consultant at a leading firm, designing cutting-edge solutions for global technology clients? For Aaron, the transition was less of a leap and more of an elegant crescendo. His musical background instilled a profound understanding of complex systems, how individual components interact, and the critical importance of harmony and structure in achieving a desired outcome. This intuitive grasp of interconnectedness proved invaluable when he transitioned into the world of technology, where he now excels in a customer advocacy team.

In his current role, Aaron is instrumental in designing and implementing user interfaces that are far more than just pretty screens. He focuses on creating sophisticated systems that:

As Aaron himself attests, his role at AGCP allows him to integrate every facet of his diverse background. From meticulous data analysis and predictive modeling to insightful product planning, design, and development, his ability to see the "orchestration" of technological solutions is truly unique. He thrives on the constant challenge of solving complex problems alongside talented colleagues, fostering an environment of continuous learning and shared growth.

Rock Bands to Revenue Streams: Brendan Gaylord's Strategic Cadence

While Aaron found his rhythm in jazz, Brendan Gaylord, a Senior Associate in our Expert Workforce, honed his strategic mind amidst the driving beats of a metal band. Growing up in a small, rural wheat farming community outside Conrad, Montana—a place he affectionately describes as "basically the middle of nowhere"—boredom became the catalyst for creativity. With friends, he self-taught the intricacies of writing, recording, and mixing music, eventually forming a band, A Beautiful Apology, and independently releasing three albums.

This journey of self-discovery and independent production taught Brendan invaluable skills that directly translate to his consulting prowess: relentless iteration, problem-solving under constraints, understanding audience reception, and the discipline of bringing complex projects to fruition. These aren't abstract concepts; they are the bedrock of his current focus on consumer financing programs for a global client.

Brendan's work involves adding financing options for new markets and optimizing online trade-in programs—areas that demand a keen eye for market dynamics, consumer behavior, and strategic implementation. Just as he refined his band's sound with each album, he now applies that same dedication to refining financial strategies, driving tangible business growth and expanding market reach.

Beyond the office, Brendan's motivations are deeply rooted. His 9-year-old son serves as his greatest inspiration, fueling his drive to excel professionally so they can enjoy their shared passion for video games like Legend of Zelda. This balance between professional ambition and personal fulfillment is something AGCP actively fosters, understanding that a well-rounded individual is a more effective and engaged consultant.

His intellectual curiosity extends to profound experiences, such as visiting Christiania in Copenhagen—an independent community that challenged his understanding of economic systems and societal structures. This openness to unconventional ideas and alternative models directly feeds into his ability to approach client challenges with fresh perspectives, looking beyond conventional solutions to uncover truly innovative pathways.

The AGCP Ethos: Where Curiosity Meets Impact

What unites individuals like Aaron and Brendan, enabling them to flourish and contribute so meaningfully? It's the unique culture cultivated at AG Consulting Partners. We don't just talk about valuing our people; we live it. Our philosophy is simple yet powerful: take care of our employees first, and they, in turn, will bring their absolute best to every client project.

This commitment is woven into the very fabric of our operations, characterized by an entrepreneurial spirit and a steadfast adherence to core values:

Transparency: Open communication and clear expectations build trust and foster an environment where everyone understands the vision and their role within it.

Stewardship: A commitment to responsible management of client resources, firm assets, and individual careers, always looking to nurture and grow what has been entrusted to us.

Intention: Every action, every decision, every strategy is thoughtfully considered and purposefully executed to achieve optimal outcomes for both our clients and our team members.

It's an environment where wearing "many hats" isn't a burden, but an opportunity for continuous learning and skill expansion. Consultants are empowered to tackle diverse challenges, knowing they have a supportive team and a robust framework for professional development. This flexibility, coupled with a genuine focus on work-life balance, creates a truly sustainable and rewarding career path.

Fueling Passions, Forging Futures: Life Beyond the Office

At AGCP, we recognize that our consultants are multi-faceted individuals with vibrant lives outside of their professional commitments. These personal pursuits aren't just downtime; they are vital sources of creativity, perspective, and rejuvenation that ultimately enhance their professional effectiveness.

Aaron's Grand European Odyssey

For Aaron, the call of the open road is a powerful one. Already an avid road-tripper with his girlfriend, traversing stunning landscapes in New Zealand and the rich culture of Cuba, his ultimate dream journey is a sprawling European expedition. Imagine renting a high-end sports car and embarking on an adventure beginning in Trondheim, Norway, winding down its breathtaking coastline to Bergen, ferrying across to mainland Europe, and then weaving through Amsterdam, France, the majestic Alps, and finally culminating in the sun-drenched beauty of Southern Italy.

This spirit of adventure, planning, and exploration mirrors the meticulous problem-solving required in his consulting work. Just as he plans complex routes and experiences, he designs equally intricate solutions for his clients, always seeking the most rewarding and impactful path.

Brendan's Pursuit of Inspiration and Impact

Brendan's life is deeply infused with music. Beyond his high school band, he co-founded Life as Cinema in 2015, releasing two EPs and multiple singles available on all major music platforms. This dedication to artistic creation, constant improvement, and sharing his work with the world speaks volumes about his character and drive. His admiration for bands like Thrice, who constantly reinvent their sound and span genres, reflects his own desire for evolution and fresh perspectives.

His journey to understand complex systems extends beyond music, too. Brendan's fascination with economic systems led him to the unique, independent community of Christiania in Copenhagen, an experience he describes as "hands down the most eye-opening." This inherent curiosity and willingness to explore unconventional models directly informs his strategic approach to client challenges, enabling him to identify opportunities others might miss.

Unlocking Your Potential: A Call to Diverse Talent

Aaron Xavier and Brendan Gaylord are not outliers at AG Consulting Partners; they are exemplars of our core belief that the most innovative solutions arise from a fusion of diverse experiences, unconventional thinking, and a passionate commitment to both professional excellence and personal fulfillment.

Their stories underscore a fundamental truth: great consultants are not just experts in a field, but adaptable, curious, and resilient individuals who can draw on a broad spectrum of life lessons to navigate complex challenges. Whether your background is in the arts, sciences, humanities, or something entirely unique, if you possess an entrepreneurial spirit, embrace transparency, practice stewardship, and act with intention, AG Consulting Partners offers an environment where your distinct talents will not only be valued but will be instrumental in driving real impact.

We're constantly seeking bright minds eager to tackle fascinating problems and contribute to a culture that truly puts its people first. What kind of impact will you make?