The LD Davis sales team is the "front lines" of our company. They, most times, are the first person that a prospect or customer speaks with. They also provide technical training and support.
Our Technical Sales Manager, Bill McCalla, has been a part of LD Davis Industries for over 20 years. What an accomplishment! We're lucky to have him and his expertise in the industry.
We sat down with Bill to see how his time at LD Davis has been for the last two decades.
Work hard
How did you get your start in the glue industry?
My father had been with LD Davis Industries for many years and was well respected by his peers and customers. He was the person that really introduced me to the glue industry and worked with Valco of Cincinnati prior.
When Tripp Davis took over the company from his father in 2000, Tripp was looking to grow the existing sales team, especially since a few were planning to retire soon. The timing worked out well and I started with LD Davis in January 2002.
How has LD Davis helpED you in your career development?
Since I have been with LD Davis, I have had the opportunity to see many new places, meet great people, and help grow the business all at the same time. Working here has brought me out of my shell.
Before LD Davis, I used to work in an environment where I didn’t interact with many people. Now, I get to meet and talk to all new kinds of people. Above all else, this position has helped me network and build relationships with so many people in varying industries.
I have been able to put our "building life-long bonds" slogan to work.
Before working at LD Davis, what was the most unusual or interesting job you’ve ever had?
In my high school days, I worked with a fence company. We installed picket and chain link fences for apartment complexes. Each day we dug holes and stretched the fences by hand. It was hard work, but I was in the best shape of my life! Then I installed greeting card fixtures for American Greetings.
What advice do you have for prospective LD Davis candidates?
Always make sure you do what you say you're going to do. Be humble, honest, and care about your customers and coworkers. Also, communicate all the time. If you do all of this, I have no doubt you'll do well.
What do you like most about working at LD Davis?
Meeting new people and developing both personal and business relationships with them. I have met hundreds of people all over the country that, without working at LD Davis, I would never have known. Getting to visit some beautiful places around the country is an added bonus!
What is your proudest moment at LD Davis?
I work with customers that, at one point, were my father's customers too. Hearing customers speak warmly of my father always puts a smile on my face. Watching my father at his retirement party is my favorite memory.
Play hard
What is your favorite city to travel to?
I've been to many beautiful cities, but I would have to say my favorite is Austin, TX.
What is the last concert you attended?
Grand Funk Railroad.
Favorite food?
Mexican. I’m getting hungry just thinking about it.
Favorite movie?
The Hollywood Knights. You can't go wrong with a comedy!
What do you like to do for fun when you’re not working?
Riding my motorcycle, golf (poorly, I might add), and having folks to the house for get-togethers.
Want to learn more about the people behind the scenes at LD Davis? Meet our Operations Team.
