News  :  December 2002

Paul's Perspective

   Sometime it’s just the way someone perceives their job description that can make all the difference in the world. Because we are a small shop with more job descriptions than people, each employee has several different jobs that they might have to do, all within the same day. For example, an employee may come to work in the morning, start machining and find that the spindle oil is low. He would then take it upon himself to add oil and perhaps clean the filters that cool the oil, etc. (service). He continues machining and notices that one of the switches on the console is loose and makes operating the machine uncertain. He takes a few minutes, opens the console, tightens the nut that holds the switch in its true position and continues (maintenance). This machinist continues working and someone shows up at the loading dock with a delivery. Seeing his machine doesn’t require him to stand there constantly and it looks like everyone else is busy, he takes the minute to receive the package and sign the paperwork all the while treating the truck driver with respect and courtesy (receiving, public relations). He goes back to work and finishes up his machining for the day, cleans up, puts tools away and lets his supervisor know that he’s running short on half inch roughing end mills (inventory control). Oh, and did I mention, he’s a machinist.

I know larger shops don’t operate this way. In fact, there is even protection between job descriptions. However, not only is it imperative that we function this way for survival reasons, but it actually make the employees enjoy their day.

There have been cases in the past where employees would tell me, “that’s not my job.”  So, we make a real effort during the hiring process and make it very clear that this company operates like “the family farm”. You show up for work and see what it is you have to do to contribute each day. I’ve noticed since I’ve started using that analogy people have started responding positively. Maybe it’s because the family farm has such a positive image, maybe it’s because this is Washington County. Whatever it is, it’s working.

We have the best work force here that we’ve ever had. I believe that it’s very much in part because we made an effort to hire people that demonstrated teamwork qualities and foster that atmosphere. What is important is that you let people know what you expect of them and then follow through with the proper encouragement.

By Paul Fronhofer - Owner

The Best Small Shop

During the past five years of working in the office at Fronhofer Tool I have found that working for a small business is extremely rewarding and enjoyable.  There are multiple reasons that I truly appreciate small business but the foundation of this appreciation is due to benefits not found in the employee handbook. 

In some larger companies an individual may be more of a number than a person.  They don’t always take into consideration the needs of their employees when a family emergency occurs or another other type of predicament takes place.  In many small businesses an employer will try to help the individual, a lot of times just being excused from work with no repercussions can be of significant aid to the employee.  I myself have needed time to take care of personal business (many times actually) and I have seen my coworkers in distress or in need being given the uttermost patience and understanding. 

Another benefit that I have is watching the business operate being able to see the whole picture.  Finances, sales, workload, profit or loss, incoming and outgoing, the decision making process for purchasing new equipment or perhaps hiring new employees.  I have the opportunity to assist in the company’s growth and development, which provides me with a great sense of satisfaction and helps motivate me to do my job right always trying to be more efficient and productive.

Being a small company doesn’t mean that it is behind the times in technology and resources.  It can mean business is done on your word being good and a hand shake, binding.

By Heidi deJong

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Last modified: November 08, 2007