To coincide with our annual Women in Industry issue, Supply House Times will spotlight a new PHCP-PVF supply chain female executive each day during the work week in the month of March. If you would like to be included or know of someone who should be included in our 2019 presentation, email Chief Editor Mike Miazga at miazgam@bnpmedia.com.
Kim Hager
Company: Winsupply (Dayton, Ohio)
Position: Product marketing manager — HVAC, Hydronics (27 years)
How did you get in the industry?
I was going to college and needed a job to help pay for my education. I heard the company was looking for someone to help file and answer the phones so I went in for an interview and was offered the job. I was going to school and working part-time. I was going to school to be in the medical field because my passion always was to help people. I soon realized what I was doing was helping people. I love what I do and am so thankful for that part-time job 27 years ago.
What do you like the most about your job/company you work for?
The people I work with. We are a large company but it has always felt like family. I have been blessed to have had some great mentors in my career along with many company presidents who believed in me early in my career and went out of their way to help me. To this day, I still pick up the phone to get advice from the Winsupply local companies and learn from them on a daily basis. We have a lot of knowledge at Winsupply and I am continually seeking to gain more knowledge about the industry.
How important do you feel it is to attract young professionals into this industry?
It’s very important to attract young professionals! HVAC is a very exciting industry that is continually growing and changing with technology. We need young professionals to get on board and learn the industry, especially with the baby boomers starting to retire. We need to continue to attract young professionals and help them grow and learn the trade.
How important do you feel it is to attract women into the industry?
I share my story with as many women as I can. I work hard but I sure have fun doing what I do and think many women are missing out on a great career opportunity.
