Pub2 2021 Issue1

KyTrucking.net 11 continued on page 12 How did the pandemic affect the company? Since Link-Belt is considered an essential manufacturer, we have not closed. We’re following personal hygiene precautions as recommended by the CDC. We have shifted our production and office schedules, and we have restrictions on visitors. Also, we did the following: • Canceled all nonessential travel • Eliminated large meetings • Managed smaller meetings for social distancing • Extended break times for handwashing • Increased the amount of hand sanitizer stations around the plant • Added cleaning staff • Discontinued buffet-style food service in our cafeteria to include only to-go food purchases We are doing everything we can to protect our team while providing our customers with the support they expect. Like everyone else, we continue to monitor the ever-changing circumstances and make adjustments. Describe your educational background. I am a high school graduate, and my whole career has been based on all modes of transportation. I have had on-the-job training at every stop along the way. Are there any specific individuals who had a major impact on your career? The gentleman who hired me, Mr. Tom Bretz, was the transportation manager and second person Link-Belt hired when they relocated the plant from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, to Lexington, Kentucky, in 1975. I worked for him for 13 years. During that time, he mentored me and helped me develop a greater understanding of the crane and transportation industry. What is the most rewarding part of your career? I’ve lived here in Central Kentucky my whole career, and I’ve accomplished a lot over the years with the growth of the company and the company name. Every employee is valued. That’s been a plus for me. A lot of companies think transportation is a necessary evil. Link-Belt values what employees do and respects what we bring to the table. I’m proud of the product. Shipping a crane is a pretty unique thing to see moving down the road, so I take a lot of pride and ownership in that. What is the biggest impact of being a KTA member? What makes it beneficial? Well, the biggest impact is being able to go to KTA when you have situations with various DOT permitting issues and that kind of thing. KTA is a voice for us when we get into situations where we need help.