Sue Mackowiak
Sales Representative, Chicago Tube & Iron, Romeoville, IL
Dedicated sales professional. Encouraging, helpful mentor. Says CTI, "feels like home."
Sometimes you find a career that feels like home, and that’s exactly what Sue Mackowiak, Sales Representative, has found with Chicago Tube & Iron (CTI).
As the daughter of a CTI employee, Sue literally grew up at Chicago Tube & Iron. After high school graduation in April 1987, Sue’s mom referred her for a part-time position and her career began. Four months later, Sue applied for and accepted a full-time position as
Assistant to the Office Manager. While in that role, she aspired to work in sales. When a position opened for the Assistant to the Valve and Fitting Product Manager, Sue applied…and her sales department journey began.
“I asked a lot of questions and often helped others so I could learn as much as possible,” explains Sue. “I was an admin for about two and a half years when I applied for a sales position. I didn’t get that job, but I didn’t give up. Eventually, I did move into a sales role – first Inside Sales for Valves and Fittings, then Inside Sales for Stainless. After 36 years in sales, I’m now selling all product lines and learning new things all the time.”
“Sue’s dedication to CTI and her customers is second to none,” says Russ Coughlin, General Manager for CTI - Romeoville. “She is consistently a top Account Representative and even finds time to help train and guide new employees. She exemplifies our Core Values, especially Customer Satisfaction, Teamwork, Integrity and Respect.”
Joining the sales department was an early career goal for Sue and achieving that goal is her proudest moment to date. Although the statistics are shifting, women are the minority in the metals industry, especially in sales. Sue didn’t let those stats get in the way of pursuing
her professional goals, and she’s grateful to her mentors’ encouraging words that helped keep her motivated.
“Sue is the most down-to-earth person you will ever meet. Although she shies away from the limelight, year after year, she manages to out-do herself and we get to celebrate her achievements all over again,” says Janeth Villalobos, Vice President of Administration. “After more than 35 years with CTI, Sue gives 100% day in and day out, and she does so with a smile. We are lucky to have her.”
That smile comes easily when you’re working at a place that feels like home. “I’ve been here so long, it’s almost like I’m coming home. CTI has always been a family-type atmosphere where I’ve made many friends. Previous and current employees stay in touch, no matter where they work – we’re one big family.”
The relationships Sue’s developed over the years have shaped the career she has today. Early in her career, others helped guide her when needed, and now that’s what she’s called to do. “It’s my turn to mentor less-experienced employees by showing them the ropes, answering their questions and helping them feel like part of the family.”
