What is your job title, and what does that position entail?

Robotic Sales Specialist. This is the most fun job at Olympus. I travel around Oregon doing on-site robot demos and helping our customers determine what parts of their process would best be suited for robotics. In order to prove out some of our proposals, I will often set up a “proof of concept” in one of our robot labs so that our customers can see the system working in person or via video. Conducting training’s on some of our robot products (in-house and onsite) is also part of my role.

How long have you worked at Olympus, where did you come from? A little history of how you got involved with Olympus?

I have been with Olympus since April 2019.  Back in 2006 I would visit Olympus and meet with Scott Hendrickson (our CEO) and try to convince him to sell a line of pneumatic products which I was representing. We stayed in touch over the years and I grew to have an enormous respect for Olympus as being the best of the best, when it came to high tech industrial automation. So basically I’ve wanted to be part of the team for a long time. By 2019 I had gained some experience with robotics and when an opening came up, I was finally able to get my dream job. Sounds sappy but it’s true.

What do you like best about working at Olympus?

The work environment it a lot of fun, from the people to the products we work with. It’s also very challenging (in a good way). In our industry, if you’re not always learning about the latest technology, you’re falling behind. Olympus isn’t afraid to invest in their people to give them the tools they need to be successful in their role. The people at Olympus are the best at what they do, so there are a lot of people here which I consider to be mentors. I’m always learning from them and being pushed to be better.

Describe a little of your past history.

I’ve been working in the industrial automation industry since 2002, in sales or as a product specialist. My education was in pneumatics and hydraulics but throughout my career I’ve gained experience with electromechanical systems and robotics.

Describe some of your hobbies – what do you like to do outside of work?

Fishing, camping, cooking and music (watching and playing).

What are some key lessons you have taken from your career thus far?

Strong relationships with your customers and coworkers help to be successful and have fun, at the same time. Figure out what makes you valuable and work on improving it.

What is one thing your customers might find surprising about you?

I’m very passionate about music. I’ve been playing various instruments since I was 6 years old. I’ve been a drummer, DJ, rapper, played tuba, guitar and bass in a number of bands in WA, OR, CA and Mexico.