Her Story
About Kristin
Kristin Hill works in manufacturing automation sales, a role she has held for approximately two years since graduating college. Her primary expertise lies on the sales side, where she builds relationships with customers and applies problem-solving skills to determine the right solutions for their needs, while also drawing on her engineering background. Hill earned a Bachelor's of Science in Engineering Technology Management from OU in 2024, which included a minor in business management, as well as a sales certificate and a Lean Six Sigma certificate, all from OU. She previously attended Columbus State through a College Credit Plus program, earning an associate's degree in general education credits that transferred to her bachelor's program. During college, she completed internships at Kenrith Trucking in manufacturing engineering and process engineering roles, plus a sales internship that introduced her to techniques like cold calling. Hill has achieved rapid promotions in her position, advancing every time she became eligible. She attributes her success to a strong work ethic instilled by her father and values honesty in her professional interactions, avoiding sales tactics that do not genuinely serve customers. In her daily responsibilities, she spends time on the road visiting manufacturing sites, booking calls, handling admin work, and servicing accounts.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Kristin
01What do you attribute your success to?
I would definitely attribute my success to my work ethic, and I would attribute that to my dad. He instilled in me and all of my siblings from a very young age that you have to work to get things that you want. You get what you put out in the world. If you work as hard as possible, you'll be rewarded for that.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Best career advice is to work hard, pick your battles, don't get upset over things that don't amount to anything too crazy. Work hard, play hard. Being able to let go of the little things makes work a lot more enjoyable and has made work-life balance easier.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
If entering a male-dominated industry, make sure you have thick skin. Being able to joke around helps build relationships. Don't give up. You're gonna fail sometimes but if you're strong-headed and stubborn enough, you'll get there.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Right now being pregnant is a very big challenge. Want to take care of myself and baby but also don't want work to suffer or efficiency to slip. Balancing continuing to work hard but knowing it's okay to not overdo it. Once baby is here, balancing work and life will be challenging.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Honesty is very important. Don't want to be a sleazy salesperson selling things customers don't need. Try to find the right solution and admit if can't provide it. In personal life, being honest and maintaining relationships honestly. Also enjoy life, live to the fullest, keep a positive mindset to be stress-free and happy.
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