Jeff Joslin, a field service technician for Kirby-Smith Machinery Inc. (KSM), worked on his family’s farm growing up and has seen firsthand how much equipment has changed over time.

“Dad had a dozer, and I learned to do maintenance and repairs on it,” said Jeff. “The machine was from the 1980s, so there was really no diagnostic equipment like today. You could pretty much get by with a test light. It’s come a long way.”

Jeff said what started out as a chore turned into an enjoyable career. He went through a diesel technology program at Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology in Okmulgee to prepare for a career as a technician.

“The program was for another brand of equipment, and I worked for one of their dealers for seven years after graduating,” Jeff recalled. “Most of my time was spent working on big machines in rock quarries, and I got familiar with Komatsu and Kirby-Smith Machinery. About four years ago, I made the switch.”

Jeff said it was two people he used to work with — Product Support Representative Brian DeVore and Territory Manager Ron Allen — that convinced him to join the Kirby-Smith team. All three work out of the company’s McAlester, Okla., location.

“They told me Kirby-Smith was an excellent place to work,” Jeff said. “We kept talking, and they made me an offer. I’m really glad I made the move. There are quality people like Brian and Ron throughout the company. If I need something, I can pick up the phone and talk with management, and they are on it. I have talked to people at midnight and had some come out on their time off to lend a hand. What really stands out is how well supported we are and how the company takes care of you.”

Still helping out on the farm

Jeff describes KSM as one big family, but he points out that he doesn’t get to see his co-workers that often. “I’m in the field working on machines day in and day out. It’s great for me because I have always loved being outdoors. Occasionally, I stop at the branch to pick up a part, but usually I know well ahead of time what I need, so I have it shipped directly to me or the site where I know I will be working.

“I could see myself doing this for another 10 years or so, then moving into a different position — still with Kirby-Smith, of course," Jeff added. "I know the company will give me that opportunity when the time comes."

Jeff continues to help his own family, too. He lives close to where he grew up and still spends time on the weekend working on his dad’s equipment. Jeff and his wife, Amy, love spending time with their two young sons — who Jeff says tell him they want to follow in his footsteps someday. He also enjoys hunting and fishing.