Our technical sales team acts as the "front lines" of our company. Many times, they are the first people that a prospect or customer speaks with about their glue application. They also provide technical training, and glue support.
We sat down with one of our Technical Sales Managers, Jeff Palmiter, to learn more about him and his role at LD Davis.
Work Hard
How did you get your start in the glue industry?
I transitioned from a career in reactive polymers. I was a Quality Control Chemist for Reichhold Chemicals and moved over to adhesives from there.
How has LD Davis helpED you in your career development?
I have been associated with LD Davis for 23 years. I started with the company when I was 28 years old. I have worked in many different areas within the company: manufacturing management, quality control, logistics, and now technical sales.
Over the years, I have had several mentors within the organization including Louis Davis Jr., Barry Barto, Norb Kroeger, and Sal Polvere just to name a few. The guidance I've received from each of them has made a positive impact on my career.
Before working at LD Davis, what was the most unusual or interesting job you’ve ever had?
I worked as a Hemapheresis technician in Jacksonville, FL. I would go in to hospital emergency rooms and perform life saving procedures on patients who were afflicted with various blood diseases.
At the time, I was one of only five people in North Florida that were trained in this field of medicine.
What advice do you have for prospective LD Davis candidates?
Be patient. There is a lot to learn about what we do here. Not only what products we make and sell, but also how they run on different types of equipment. It takes between 3-5 years to really learn what you need to know.
What do you like most about working at LD Davis?
The fact that there really is a L.D. Davis! We all know him as Tripp Davis. Tripp is the 3rd generation owner of our company. I worked for his Dad, and now him. I have his personal cell phone number... and if I call...he will answer.
What is your proudest moment at LD Davis?
When our manufacturing team broke the 20 million pounds produced threshold back in 2000. That was a great feeling and a huge accomplishment.
Play Hard
What is your favorite city to travel to?
My hometown of Chattanooga, TN - I love visiting home. Gettysburg, PA is pretty cool too!
What is the last concert you attended?
Tommy Decarlo’s band from Charlotte, NC. He is the current lead singer for BOSTON. Awesome!!!!
Favorite food?
My wife is ½ Italian and she makes a killer Italian Chicken...that is my favorite!
Favorite movie?
It's a tie between Shawshank Redemption and Forrest Gump.
What do you like to do for fun when you’re not working?
I like to deer hunt, fish and “hack” at golf. But, as I grow older it is all about hanging out with good friends and family when I can.
Want to learn more about the people behind the scenes at LD Davis? Meet some of our other team members: Bill McCalla (Technical Sales Manager), Stacey Kreisler (VP of Sales &Marketing), and Brooks Durham (VP of Operations)
