Get to know Mike Powers, Inside Sales Support
Mazak’s team is composed of individuals with a wealth of valuable knowledge and experience. This expertise is vital for ensuring customer satisfaction. When customers have questions about the installation of their new machine, they can be confident that the Mazak Optonics team will guide them in making informed decisions as they navigate their way through the installation process. As Inside Sales Support, Mike Powers prepares customers for the installation of their machine and supports Mazak’s team during the sales process.
Learn more about Mike through this quick Q&A session.
Quick Q&A with Mike Powers
What is your background involving laser machines and the fabrication industry?
"I’ve been a part of the fabrication industry my entire career. At the age of 15, I started working as a tool and die maker at a local manufacturer in Illinois, and later made the switch to work at a Swiss machine tool company. After working with machine tools for 20 years, one of my connections from the industry introduced me to waterjet technology, and I ended up working at a company that specialized in waterjet technology for several years. While there, I worked with a distributor who ultimately introduced me to Mazak and laser-cutting technology."
What is your current role at Mazak?
“I started working at Mazak in 2008 as a Sales Manager. I enjoyed my role in sales because each day was different and required me to be hands-on with the machines. I also had the opportunity to travel to customers’ facilities and see first-hand the various production processes our laser-cutting machines enhanced. I made the decision to switch from sales to an internal role to be close to family. My current role is Inside Sales Support. I support new customers by helping them prepare for the delivery and installation of a machine, in addition to supporting our sales team and distributors during the sales process.”
What is your definition of great customer service?
"In order to provide great customer service, I find it important to treat customers how I would want to be treated. It feels rewarding helping customers navigate through the installation process and hearing them say 'thank you for your help.'"
What are your hobbies and interest?
"I enjoy hobbies that are relaxing and allow me to unwind. Cooking, fishing, and being outdoors enjoying nature are a few of activities I enjoy in my free time. I am looking forward to taking more trips down to Florida soon for saltwater fishing."
If you had unlimited time and resources, how would you spend your time?
"If I had unlimited time and resources, I would travel to see all the beautiful places in the world. In the past, I have enjoyed traveling to Ascona, Switzerland which has warm Mediterranean climate with picturesque views of palm trees and the Swiss Alps. I would also revisit one of my favorite places—Sydney, Australia for the favorable climate and laid-back lifestyle. One place I would like to visit that I haven’t visited before is Iceland to see the country’s vast geography which features beaches, mountains, and volcanoes."