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Courtney Brockmeyer
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May 6, 2010 | Volume 4, Issue 5 | www.sdchamber.org | contact us
Q: What is your background at Caterpillar, Inc?
A: I have been with Caterpillar for over 30 years. I joined the company in 1979 after graduating from Eastern Illinois University. Following my initial training in parts and service sales, I held a variety of positions in product support, machine, and engine businesses. From 1994-1998, I served as area manager responsible for the machinery business in the Northwest quadrant of Europe, which was based out of London. I returned to the U.S as the North American distribution manager for the Engine Products Division, and then became regional manager for the North American Commercial Division, and finally was vice president responsible for the company’s North American dealer development and machine marketing. In January 2006, I was given the great opportunity to move to San Diego and join Solar Turbines as its president.
Q: To what do you attribute Caterpillar’s staying power over the last 80 years?
A: Caterpillar has been steadfast to operating our business with a long-term view and commitment to building the highest quality products for successful customers, providing our employees a work environment where they can excel and feel rewarded with their talents, and consistently deliver excellent returns to our shareholders. The bottom line is we are a company that thrives on strong, mutually beneficial, and lasting relationships.
Q: What other local organizations are you involved with?
A: I currently serve on the Boards of the United States Energy Association in Washington, D.C., the San Diego Regional Economic Development Corporation, the United Way of San Diego County, the San Diego Center for Children, and the Eastern Illinois University Alumni Association
Q: What economic changes do you see facing companies like Caterpillar, Inc?
A: As developing countries continue to grow and have a bigger impact on the worldwide economy, companies will need to further establish their global business models and associated operational footprints in order to succeed. Keeping pace with changing customer needs, economic trends, and environmental initiatives requires a truly global mindset that is led by a diverse leadership team positioned in, or very near, to their customers’ time and space. Being global while acting local will become table stakes in the formula for business success on a world stage.
Q: "You've had a lot of experience in various divisions with Caterpillar. What do you find unique about Solar Turbines?"
A: Solar is one of the very few end-to-end, customer direct, highly independent businesses in the Caterpillar portfolio. With that distinction, I would say that Solar is the most customer focused and customer responsive team of people I have had the pleasure of working with in 30+ years. They have an incredible passion for winning customer business and earning the loyalty that comes with putting the customer needs first. This is a company that has a long history of doing whatever it takes to survive and succeed, dating back to 1927. I'm thankful that I am on their team, because I wouldn't want to have to compete with us!
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Executive Profile: Steve Gosselin