How many years have you been with company?
I came to GPI in 1999, just as we were preparing for Y2K. My first project was to develop machining processes for GPI’s newest product offering at that time, the cast iron Vane Pump series.
What is your current job title?
Warehouse Operations Manager
Have you held other positions?
I began as Machine Shop Manager, promoted to Manufacturing Manager in 2004, which evolved to Operations Manager. The past year my focus has been Inventory, Receiving, Line Service, Shipping, Customer Service, and Safety/Facility Maintenance.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
Manufacturing! I have always enjoyed making things! As a young man, I was a Tool & Die Maker, Plastic Injection Mold Builder, and Conventional Machinist. I believe a nation’s wealth and strength hinges upon its ability to convert natural resources into products. GPI encourages participation in Professional Societies, I’m a member of SME (Society of Manufacturing Engineers), APICS (American Production & Inventory Control Society), and this year I’m serving as President of WMA (Wichita Manufacturers Association).
Tell us about any mentors you’ve enjoyed working with over the years.
Early in my career, my Shop Lead at Boeing, Jimmy Bower. He was tenacious yet considerate, quality oriented, and goal driven. He taught me “always keep the finish line in mind”. His motto, in the vernacular of the day, was “keep on –keepin on”.
Tell us about your family.
On graduation day, I proposed to my high school sweetheart, Patsy Jean. We’ve been happily married ever since, with a daughter and two sons. We planned our family. All three children were all born in the month of February, with three years between each. We’re blessed with 11 grandchildren; three of them came into our family via second marriages. This year, one graduated from K-State, one is a WSU senior, plus freshmen at KU and K-State.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
I love the solitude and quietness of riding a bicycle on rural gravel roads, away from the fast-paced city. I try to participate in three 100-mile Bicycle Endurance Ride events each year. My favorite is the “Hotter ’N Hell Hundred” in Wichita Falls,TX held annually in late August. Locally each spring I ride the Wicked Wind 100, sponsored by Oz Bicycle Club, and Tulsa Tough 100. In June this spring, I rode the Dirty Kanza endurance race. Of Course, I didn’t place; I was just pleased to finish the 50-mile gravel road course.
What is the last book you read?
Primarily I read the Bible. Often times articles in trade magazines, or books that pertain to manufacturing practice. I’m currently re-reading THE GOAL by Goldratt. My only recreational reading is occasionally a tech article in motorcycle or bicycle mags.
Who is the person you’d most like to meet?
President George W. Bush. Although some don’t share my sentiment, he is a patriot, loves America, and honors men & women serving in our military.
What’s your favorite restaurant and why?
My personal favorite is the “Boiling Pot” on the coast in Rockport, Texas. Locally, we like to dine at Felipe’s on E. Harry St. It’s been our favorite since the early 80s when it was located at Harry & Rock Road. We try others and some of the new ones, but always gravitate back there.
What’s your favorite vacation destination/activity?
Our vacations are always road trips on the Harley. We love riding to Padre Island, or into the mountains, especially Tetons and Yellowstone. Our favorite highway is through the Beartooth Mountains, from Cody Wyoming to Red Lodge Montana. Chief Joseph and Beartooth highways are awesome. There is majesty, a sense of serenity, and peacefulness that draws me in to the mountains and God’s marvelous creation.