Originally Posted by Marilyn

For the newbies, I'm in industrial sales, specifically valves. My background is mechanical engineering. I worked for a petrochemical plant for 15 years in process engineering, projects and purchasing. I've been in outside sales for 14 years and cover most of South Texas. Petrochem plants are putting in new units or have major projects to expand the ones they have. We have several gas fired power plants that are being rebuilt to greatly improve their efficiency. A large coal plant is planning to double it's size. New nuclear reactors are on the drawing boards for both Bay City, TX and Victoria, TX. An ethanol plant has just received their air and water permits. One new coal/petroleum coke fired power plant is being built and one is in the permitting phase.

It is such a crazy time to be working in this field. I've been working this area long enough to be poised to take advantage of the opportunities. Being a woman helps because you stand out, and people remember you. I work for a great company with lots to offer our customers with regard to service, quality and price, and I have a reputation of being honest with regard to what we can do and when we can have it to you.

As far as gasoline to get to work, my company provides a company truck with all expenses paid, so that's not an issue. When I get close to 100,000 miles, I get a new truck.

I've worked a long time to get where I am. I've sacrificed some personal time, but my children are now adults and insist they were not short changed. We've been able to share real quality time and traveled, and have wonderful relationships.

Life is very good and , Lord willing, will continue to be so.

I've discussed retiring in the recent past, but that was before this business boom kicked in. My compensation is partially commission based, and I really have nothing to complain about right now. Making hay while the sun is shining!!!!

Well, that was kinda long, but someone ask, and I'm seldom at a loss for words. Oh, and I do have an office. I serve as sales manager for the area and have an office and warehouse with inside sales and warehouse personnel. My office is about 30 miles from my home, but my truck serves as a mobile office as well. I have On-Star, and two cell phones to stay connected. One is an iPhone, so I can access 4WT anytme I want.