CLM Voices: Getting to Know Rusty Goudelock

Even though Goudelock has 30 years of experience and founded a firm that now has 166 attorneys, it’s not necessarily the most interesting part of his career, which includes a military history and days spent volunteering his pilot skills.

Tanks for the Memories 

Initially after graduating from The Citadel, Goudelock became a military officer where he commanded soldiers in M60A3 and M1 Abrams tanks. He was on active and reserve components duty for a total of 14 years, including service overseas as a public affairs officer during Desert Storm.  

“In a tank, I sat up in the gun turret. The soldiers sitting inside had their hands on all the controls. Without each other, we could not make things happen successfully.” Goudelock, on the similarities in teamwork in the military and running a firm.

A Flat World  

Goudelock says his firm tries to minimize hierarchy. He says distinctions between administrative and professional roles or, for example, between partners and associates, are not important. He says it enables the firm to put the right task in the right hands for their clients’ sake, without regard to rank or title.

“Every client has its own personality, needs, and goals. It should be important enough to you to identify those things and be attentive to them.” Goudelock, on the secret to finding success in his work.

Flying High  

Goudelock loves to fly and has been a pilot for almost 40 years. He and other pilots volunteer their skills and time for Mercy Flight, a charity that transports medical patients and families who can’t afford to fly commercially or who require frequent medical visits that make the travel cost-prohibitive. 

“I grew up as a South Carolina Gamecocks sports fan, but I’ve paid college tuition for three daughters to attend Clemson. I am now a fully converted and supportive Tigers fan.” Goudelock, on how he spends quality time with his family.