I began working with PLCs in the late 80s and fell in love with the technology surrounding industrial controls. During the 1990s, I continued working with PLCs and additional automation devices that include Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs), Fanuc Robotics and CNC machining centers (servos and NC control). It was a time when PCs were becoming mainstream and the computer age was influencing our personal life and the industrial world. I received a degree in Automated Manufacturing from Lanier Technical College in 1994 and came to work for AutomationDirect in 1999, where I found a home that allowed me to work with, support and influence the design of, programmable controllers, VFDs and other industrial control devices, all while helping others achieve their goals. In July 2018, after 11 years as Product Manager of the Productivity Series PLC, I joined the Drives & Motors group at AutomationDirect to help grow an already successful product line and expand our product capabilities to better serve our customers. These roles gave me the opportunity to develop product roadmaps, create product definitions and foster professional relationships. In May of 2023, I accepted a position as the Team Captain for the Business Development Team with a focus on serving our customers and growing the overall business. It's an honor to work for a company that truly puts the customer first.