Kevin had countless times throughout his career where he would step up to whatever challenges and changes our organization went through, showing his leadership in moving the direction needed for the best path forward for operations. From taking over service when he had no experience, to handling the service across the State at all locations, pivoting back to sales focus when we hired a vendor to handle institutional service, and tackling new markets and customers within the Sales organization - uniforms, printing, signs, etc.
Personally, Kevin was my longest direct report within IPI, and he could always be depended upon and proved his ability to perform at high levels regardless of the assignments thrown his way. He also became a very valuable sounding board and provided valuable feedback on many decisions and directions for the Commercial team and plant operations in the consumable divisions as well.
“Hawkeye” Peterson cannot be duplicated, and I know that we have extremely large shoes to fill for the future. His special way to put everyone at ease and make all feel welcome and important are traits that are not easily acquired, and he made it look so easy on a daily basis. I can say that I learned as much from him as I tried to help him his entire career working for me and IPI. He leaves IPI as a personal friend for life, and I hear that we might see him occasionally in Central Iowa in the future as well!
Congratulations Kevin, and best wishes for your retirement- Enjoy your family, be safe on that motorcycle, and I will always stand behind you on the golf course…..Have a great life.