Meet Bill Lee, a strategic account representative at John Zink. Since joining in 2013, Bill has embraced a variety of roles, from the machine shop to sales, driven by his passion for learning and growth. In this spotlight, Bill shares his career journey, advice for new employees, and what excites him about the future at John Zink.
Can you tell us about your career journey at John Zink? What initially attracted you to the company?
I joined John Zink in March 2013, after a recommendation from a friend who worked there. The structured and challenging interview process intrigued me and made me realize that John Zink really knows what they want in their employees. I started in the machine shop, where I quickly adapted and took on more responsibilities.
What roles have you held at John Zink and how did these transitions come about?
I’ve held various roles at John Zink. I started in the machine shop, then moved to a material coordinator role in aftermarket, which was challenging and took me out of my comfort zone. After about 2.5 years, I became the lead for aftermarket. Later, I transitioned to sales because I wanted to learn more about how the front-end processes work and how a project moves from receiving the PO to completion. Each role has helped me understand different facets of the company and broaden my skill set.
How has the culture at John Zink supported your career development?
The culture at John Zink is incredibly supportive and encourages knowledge sharing. Anytime I had questions, there was always someone willing to help. Whether it was in the machine shop or in sales, I found a community that values collaboration and mentorship. Everyone here cares deeply about their work, and that passion is contagious.
What does John Zink’s legacy mean to you, and how do you see yourself contributing to it?
John Zink’s legacy is built on a wealth of knowledge and expertise that has been developed over many years. I want to be a part of that legacy by learning every angle of the company and helping others do the same. My goal is to be a go-to person for answers and support, just like the mentors before me.
What excites you about the future of John Zink?
The unknown is exciting—the potential for new technologies and innovations. The future looks bright because of the brilliant people we have here who are all intent on succeeding. The passion and dedication of everyone at John Zink make me confident that we’ll continue to thrive.
Do you have any advice for new employees considering a career at John Zink?
Stay curious and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Embrace the culture of knowledge sharing and support. Also, stay humble and passionate about what you do. Your enthusiasm will not only help you grow but also inspire those around you.
Can you share a bit about your life outside of work? Any hobbies or interests?
I’m a musician and have been playing music for most of my life, thanks to my dad who introduced me to it. I’ve toured, played at big festivals, and shared stages with well-known bands. Music is a big part of who I am, and it’s something I’m very passionate about. It’s taught me the importance of staying humble and being an impact on others, whether through music or in the workplace.
