Karen Fitzgerald is the customer account representative at Groov-Pin’s subsidiary, Precision Turned Components (PTC), in Smithfield, Rhode Island. Over her past four years at Groov-Pin, Karen’s role has evolved from order entry and keeping track of opportunities to include quoting and handling customer inquiries. “There’s nothing here that I don’t have my hands in,” she said.
One of the most challenging parts of her job is to keep things running smoothly when issues arise. Working in customer service, she often has to act as the voice of the customer. “Our job as inside sales is to be the customer’s advocate and try to mesh our manufacturing capabilities with what the customer needs,” she said.
Her role can be challenging when working with different parts. All of the parts manufactured in Smithfield are made to print, which means each opportunity is different. When an unfamiliar print comes in, she sees it as an opportunity to ask questions and learn. “I love working here,” she said. “It’s all about relationship building. As stressful as work can be, at the end of the day everybody that works here actually cares about and helps each other.”
Karen feels that Groov-Pin is excelling at putting employees first and balancing the need to make both employees and customers happy. “You’re buying something from someone who actually cares about the people they’re employing,” she said.
For Karen, another positive aspect of working for Groov-Pin is that it is a socially responsible company. Groov-Pin leaders are involved in the community and participate with organizations like Crossroads RI, which helps people affected by homelessness and domestic violence. “It’s important, the way leaders interact and conduct themselves with their employees and the community,” she said.
When she’s not helping customers at PTC, Karen volunteers with Rhode Island Stage Ensemble (RISE) to do special effects makeup for performances. She especially loves working with kids and enjoys being able to have fun while giving back to her community.
If you have any questions about Precision Turned Components’ capabilities or would like to request a quote from Karen, you can email her at kfitzgerald@groov-pin.com.