Worked at Kadant Since: 1996
Department/Title: Senior R&D Technician

Tell me about your career path and how you got to Kadant.
I came to Kadant in 1996 after graduating from WPI with a degree in mechanical engineering focused in materials science.  I worked for four years in the R&D department on doctor blade development and testing.  In 2000, I left to work as a product manager at FLEXcon, one of our customers, and then taught 7^th grade math for a year.  I kept in touch with Kadant during that time to complete the Softek patent that we had been working on prior to my departure.  In 2004, I was asked if I was interested in doing some consulting research for Kadant Solutions and I was thrilled to come back to my "roots".  I am so extremely grateful to have the flexibility that I have and work for a company where I have known the products and people for 20 years.

What’s one thing you’ve learned in your time at Kadant?
Personal relationships are so critical in the business world.  A personal connection with someone can often make a world of difference if you need help in a situation or if you're trying to gain more business. 

What is your favorite aspect of your job?
I enjoy supporting our sales team so that they can have the resources they need to help our customers.

What words of wisdom would you share with someone new to sales?
Don't be afraid to ask lots of questions to fully understand an application or product. 

Tell me about your family.
My husband, Rob, and I have two daughters – Megan (age 15) and Allison (age 11).  We enjoy family game nights, visiting museums, traveling, and spending time at the beach. 

What do you like to do in your free time and why?
Megan has special needs, so I am very active in our local special education community helping parents advocate for the services their children need to be successful in school. I am also completing nine years of service on our district's school committee.

Where would you like to go on your dream vacation?
I would love to spend more time in France, going back to Paris (my all-time favorite city), but also exploring Normandy as well as the South of France.