Volunteer Profile: Jim Satrom, North Dakota ’75
Jim earned a bachelor of science in industrial technology from the University of North Dakota in 1975. While in school, he founded PS Garage Doors, Inc., and later PS Industries, Inc. PS Garage Doors celebrated its fiftieth anniversary in 2024. PS Garage Doors is a regional business operating in several states. Jim sold the business to his management team while retaining ownership of the manufacturing side, PS Industries. Now, his sons, Grant, ’05, and Dan, ’09, own and run the business.
Jim has volunteered in the community on many boards over the years. He has stayed involved with North Dakota Alpha alumni since graduating and served as the building chairman when the new chapter house was built in 1978. He continues to volunteer for the chapter by serving the house corporation in several areas.
Who or what inspired you to become a volunteer?
I had the opportunity to meet many alumni during my school years and observed their appreciation of what the Fraternity had done for them. These were businessmen who were interested in the chapter and willingly shared their experiences and guidance in both fraternity life and the working world.
Tell me about your undergraduate fraternity experience. Why did you choose Phi Delta Theta, and do you have any favorite memories you would like to share?
My brother Tom, ’69, was always a big influence on me, and he introduced me to several of his Phi Delt brothers, which began my recruitment quite young! I still remember many of them.
How have you stayed connected with Phi Delta Theta after graduation?
I went into business here in Grand Forks, so it was a natural step to join our alumni group. Soon after, we decided to build a new chapter house, and I was quite involved. I guess that set the hook—fast forward about fifty years, and I’m still here with several other local alumni continuing to volunteer.
What accomplishments or career milestones are you most proud of, and how do you attribute them to your experience?
I was doing garage door repairs to pay my way through school. (Imagine the phone being answered “Phi Delt House” when customers called!). Eventually, that evolved into my business, but I had zero business experience, and those early years were pretty challenging. I’m certain it was my fraternity experience of believing in myself and my team that gave me the drive to overcome those early years. After the first business took off, we expanded and became two successful businesses.
Do you feel that Phi Delta Theta made a difference in your life?
Absolutely. As I said before, my belief in myself and those around me was solidified at North Dakota Alpha. Maybe more so, the lifelong friendships I made through Phi Delta Theta are why I’m still connected with them today.
Do you have any advice for current students?
Push yourself and your fellow Phis to exceed the expectations set for you. Be involved and have fun.
