Tell us a little bit about your career at Cleveland Brothers (when did you start, what was your title, etc.)
I started working at Cleveland Brothers in January 1989 a few weeks after I was discharged from the Marine Corps. I started as a shop technician. About two years after I started, I was put in charge of the Engine rebuild and dyno room. I rebuilt every kind of engine & fuel injection pump Caterpillar made. Fours later I became a Field technician. I spent 10 years on the road as a field tech and received my Associates degree in business taking evening classes. I was promoted to Field Supervisor/Assistant Service Manager in March 2004. I held that position until I was promoted to Service Manager of Wilkes-Barre & Frackville in 2007. In 2009 I was promoted to Operations Manager of the Wilkes-Barre Facility. In 2011 my job changed to Parts & Service Manager/Branch Manager which is my current position at the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Branch.
At a high level, provide a summary of your current responsibilities at Cleveland Brothers? What’s your typical work day?
I currently oversee the Parts Department, Construction & Rental Service Department. I also have responsibility for the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Facility.
With such a rich history in Pennsylvania, describe what it means to work for Cleveland Brothers.
For people who are not familiar with Cleveland Brothers, it is family owned Cat dealership with an owner who is fully engaged with the business. We have very dedicated employees and strong values throughout the company. We have a very diverse customer base to include construction, mining, oil & gas, blue stone & aggregate, forestry, and so many more.
Describe what it means to work for a Caterpillar dealer. What are the benefits or advantages?
As an employee of a Cat dealership, we are always on the cutting edge of technology. We have the benefit of having Caterpillar support and training so we can proficiently get the job done. We work for the biggest & best machinery manufacturer in the world who makes the best product available.
Why did you choose to work at Cleveland Brothers over other companies?
I had a job offer from Cleveland Brothers & another company when I was discharged from the Marine Corps. The other company actually was going to start me at a higher pay rate than Cleveland Brothers offered. I turned them down to work at Cleveland Brothers because I saw the big picture at a young age. Working for Cleveland Brothers I knew I would have so much more opportunity to grow and develop my career. Looking back now after over 28 years I know I made the right choice.
What is special about working at Cleveland Brothers?
The people. There are so many good people at CBE that are very good at their jobs and are very dedicated to make our customers experience the best possible.
If you were to describe Cleveland Brothers in three words, what would they be?
Safety, Family, Dedicated
Describe the work culture at Cleveland Brothers.
To describe our work culture I have to start with safety. Safety is the cornerstone of our business. We put our highest value on safety. Then I would say we have a great work environment. People here are always willing to help anyone out. We have a strong sense of teamwork.
What kind of future do you see Cleveland Brothers having?
Cleveland Brothers, along with all other dealerships, are measured by Caterpillar in Dealer Excellence. We are in the top percentile now in North America and know we will hit number 1. We have a bright future working for CBE with all of the diverse industry we have in Pennsylvania & West Virginia.
Do you have any advice for people thinking of applying to work for Cleveland Brothers?
If you have a good attitude, good work ethic, and care about making a difference and want to have a promising career, this is the place for you.
Do you have any advice for veterans in particular who are thinking of applying to work for Cleveland Brothers?
For veterans who may consider working for Cleveland Brothers they should know we are very veteran friendly and they will have a great opportunity to showcase their talents and start a rewarding and prosperous career. The opportunity for advancement during your career is excellent.
