It's not just disagreeing; anyone can say they don't agree. "People should point out if they think we should look at something from a different perspective. It's healthy to have differing opinions on issues--it keeps us away from the traps of groupthink--and keeps all of us focused. It happens every week."

At Caterpillar, the voice of the individual is important--maybe moreso than at most companies--though in some regions, that can be tricky. In most countries, "there still is a gap between what people think and what they feel comfortable saying," says Williams. "What they do want is the opportunity to influence decisions."

No matter where Caterpillar employees are located, they have at least one thing in common: the knowledge that the company's whole is more important than its individual members. Williams learned this the hard way when he praised one of his regional security directors for a job well done. The executive almost resigned because he felt the credit should go to his team.

It's an odd lesson for Williams to have to learn anew, given his own unshakable devotion to teamwork. He is immensely proud of the team he has assembled. As he works on his security plan for the next five years, he trusts they will be at his side, helping to carry the ball. "They excel daily. I am very proud of this team," he says. "Each person is mutually supportive and doing a great job."