Jane Ivester: Muratec is ‘my second home’
Muratec Customer Service Coordinator Jane Ivester remembers when the company had only one division – textiles.
She’s seen all the building additions to Muratec headquarters in Charlotte, NC. When the other divisions, machine tools, logistics and automation and clean factory automation, came on board, she was there for that, too.
Jane is Muratec’s longest-serving woman with 36 years of experience.
She began her career in textiles, transferred nonstop switchboard calls before the company’s phone system was automated, and now works in the parts department, working with textile customers and billing.
“I talk with customers. When they need something, I try to respond very quickly,” Jane said. “You have a rapport with the ones you talk to a lot.”
As Muratec marks its 50th anniversary, employees like Jane are being recognized for their longtime service and asked to share their experiences with the company.
What drew you to Muratec and what has kept you here?
I was working at Summey Building Systems for over 10 years and was told that it would be closing. A neighbor of mine, Tom Balsom, who worked for Murata, told me about an open position.
I applied and received a phone call from Mr. W.A. Gaddis for the interview. I was nervous and excited at the same time of finding a workplace I could call home.
My new journey began on March 16, 1988, and has lasted through the years. We are a close-knit work family that cares about each other and their families. We’ve experienced a lot of changes that come and go but the core group stayed and remained the same. Most of this group are now seniors who are enjoying our grandchildren. Many friendships have been made within Murata and will last a lifetime. Murata offers activities throughout the year that give us all something fun to look forward to.
I have been blessed beyond words. It’s just an awesome group of people to work with and I feel like this is my second home.
How has technology and your department evolved during your time at Murata?
When I was on the switchboard, before everything was automated, I couldn’t leave my desk with all the calls coming in. The changes in technology have made life easier for all.
What has been your work philosophy or motto?
Treat others as you would like to be treated. Have a positive attitude, do the best of your ability and be a team player.
Share a memorable experience or project at Muratec that had a lasting impact on you?
When all three divisions merged under one roof, there were again more employees and new friends! It was impressive to see how everyone came together and worked together.
What advice would you give to someone just starting out at Muratec?
Muratec is a great company to work for with a lot of growth potential. We are lucky to work for a company that offers different job opportunities in four divisions. The opportunities arise when there’s a new job posting and maybe something you might have interest in. Apply and move forward. You will gain new knowledge and become more versatile.
With its diverse work force of trained professionals, Muratec is an elite company you will be proud to work for.