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Kathy
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Department: Purchasing at Manitowoc Cranes
Joined the company: December 6, 1999
College attended/ Degree earned: University of Minnesota
Do you consider Manitowoc to be a culture that fosters teamwork?
Yes, the Manitowoc culture definitely fosters teamwork. We receive participation from employees in numerous functions, whether it is a recurring meeting, a special project, a company initiative, new product development, setting goals and objectives and even when selecting new individuals to join our company. This results in cross-functional representation and input so that everyone is a part of the decision or process which may affect their area. This team concept is very successful and lends itself to mitigation of gaps and issues prior to a solution or decision. It also ensures we work together to achieve shared success, and remain industry leaders for the products we manufacture. Collectively, we are constantly striving to improve the bottom line and deliver products to our customers with innovation and reliability.
What makes you most proud about working for Manitowoc?
I am proud to work for The Manitowoc Company. We are an industry leader. Year after year, we deliver results that our stakeholders have come to expect. We are a local company with distribution all over the world. I was born and raised in Manitowoc and my husband and I raised our boys here. Any where we go in the world, we can find one of our products in the hotels or on the job sites. It is an awesome feeling to know I had some part in getting that piece of equipment to where it is in service!
What attracted you to a career with Manitowoc?
Manitowoc´s reputation in the community and its presence around the world attracted me to the company. People who work for the company speak highly of it and are pleased with the working environment. The company shares its success with its employees and stakeholders. Everyone feels a part of its success, because it´s a big company with a small town feel.
What do you like most about your job at Manitowoc?
I love my job! Every day is a little bit different. We do whatever it takes to satisfy our customers and to deliver the product they expect. This means some days are extremely stressful and demanding while others are may be more routine. I like that variety. When I go home at the end of the day, I know I have accomplished something and contributed to the success of our team.
Which achievements are you most proud of?
I am proud of my entire career with The Manitowoc Company because I´ve been able to work my way up through the company and build success for myself and my team with the tools and experiences I´ve had. I was one of the initial six employees to attend the American Society for Quality Six Sigma Black Belt training. It was very rewarding to complete the training and receive my certification. Another wonderful experience was being chosen to lead the "Procure to Pay" portion of the ERP project for the Foodservice Group. This was an experience in ultimate teambuilding. I was the only woman on the core team of six employees that had to lead and orchestrate this massive undertaking. Together, we successfully implemented the system around the world. The people we met and worked with were unique and different and I cannot explain the reward we felt making it all come together. The camaraderie that developed between the team itself is something we will never lose.
Were your family/friends supportive of your decision to join Manitowoc?
My family and friends supported my decision to join Manitowoc. My family, in particular, liked the fact that I was close to home and everyone spoke highly of Manitowoc.
What information would you most like to share with a potential Manitowoc employee?
Manitowoc is a great company! We are constantly looking ahead to remain competitive and keep our industry leader status. The company treats its employees well. We have every opportunity to make a direct impact on the company´s success. The working environment is awesome. People treat each other with respect. The company invests in its employees and allows you to grow with them. We are well known and continually deliver quality products with great reputations!
What do you receive from the company in return for the contributions you make to your team/dept/company?
The company recognizes employees for their achievements. It supports your career goals and gives you opportunities to prepare yourself for the next level. The company contributes to my 401K, shares profits with its employees, funds continuing education, and offers standard medical and dental benefits. Manitowoc is an equal opportunity employer and places the most qualified people in their positions.
What are some of the things that make Manitowoc a successful company?
Consistently delivering quality products. Continually reviewing products to upgrade technology, or produce more efficiently or cost effectively. We stay informed of technological advances in order to make our products innovative. We listen to our customers and deliver products they want. We stand behind our products and dedicate service professionals to address concerns in the field.
Where do you see yourself with the company in 5 years?
I see myself developing into a Director´s role in the supply chain arena of the company. I could also see myself accepting a project management role for a company initiative.
What career development opportunities have you been able to participate in at Manitowoc?
I´ve had the opportunity to participate in several development opportunities including, Six Sigma black belt certification, Leadership Development training, ERP/Oracle training, Continuing education seminars and Trade show events.
What additional comments would you like to share with someone considering employment with Manitowoc?
Do not hesitate to become a part of this wonderful company. You have so much to contribute to our success and yours!