Today, another chapter of my life comes to a close. After more than 39 years, I am retiring from Caterpillar. First a brief look back, then anxiously looking forward... My Dad introduced me to Caterpillar when I was still in High School. He arranged for an informational meeting between us and the East Peoria HR Manager. It was soon after that I chose my career path (Mechanical Engineering), and university (U of I in Champaign-Urbana) and embarked on my journey. Thanks Dad for always being there, helping me see the world with open eyes and an open mind, and guiding me so well. Youve always been such a good role model. If only this Steve, at 58, was able to go back and even suggest to that 19 year old Steve what was ahead. Im sure he would have never believed the possibilites. It was while working for Caterpillar that I took my first airplane adventure, presented my first technical topic, published my first technical paper, applied for my first patent, presented at a major industry technical forum in Mexico and again in San Diego. I even got to attend the super-truck races one year in Spain, watched the Caterpillar team clinch first place for the season from the pits, and was invited to the awards ceremony later that evening! Ive been mentored by some of the greatest people and greatest leaders. Ive made lasting friendships. Ive been given the financial ability to raise and care for my family in ways I never thought possible. Ive traveled globally. Besides US locations, too many to mention, others have included Mexico, Brazil, England, Germany, Italy, Spain, Belgium, Switzerland, and China. Ive learned to lead, having grown that responsibility to encompass multiple divisions, charged with the oversight of hundreds of people within my organizations, and been accountable for more than $100M in annual budgets. One of these divisions was my career goal... leading Caterpillars Global Engine Development (based in North America). I met and then several years later fell head over heels in love with my wife Sheila through the interactions of our positions at Caterpillar. The best part of this one is that it will last the rest of my life. Thank you Lord for always watching over me, giving me the opportunities, and helping me through them. So whats next? Some consider it retirement. That seems like an end. I prefer a change, a transition, a new beginning. Sheila calls it Free stylin. Im looking forward to being available..... to do what I want, when I want, and go where I want. Being able to drop everything at a moments notice to go when Im asked to be there, or when I feel the need to be there. This new chapter, about to begin, is gonna be awesome!!
Posted on: Sat, 30 Nov 2013 13:28:59 +0000
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