We take great pride in the contributions of our veterans, both within our company and across the nation.
At GROEBNER, we take great pride in the contributions of our veterans, both within our company and across the nation. Veterans Day is not only a time to honor those who have served but also to reflect on the values they bring into the workplace—values like determination, leadership, and camaraderie. For our team, these traits are not just ideals, but principles lived out daily.
One way GROEBNER celebrates these principles is through the tradition of challenge coins. In military history, challenge coins have long been used to symbolize unity, team spirit, and shared goals. They serve as a tangible reminder of one’s commitment to the mission, and the bond that ties the team together. Whether in the military or within our company, challenge coins represent dedication to a greater cause.
Our National Sales Director, Jim Perkins, a former U.S. Marine, embraced this tradition by creating GROEBNER's very own challenge coin, emblazoned with the phrase “Powered by Determination.” This message is a powerful extension of our company’s tagline, “Powered by Experience,” and it speaks to the drive and perseverance that define GROEBNER’s approach to serving our customers and growing our business.
For Jim, the inspiration to create these coins came from his time in the Marine Corps and from the camaraderie he experienced within his unit. Though challenge coins weren’t used in his division, Jim encountered them later in life at industry events and was drawn to their unifying message. In 2024, he worked with Matt Dvorak, our VP of Sales, to craft a coin that reflected the resilience and forward momentum of GROEBNER's team, especially as the world emerged from challenging times.
Jim explains the purpose of the coin: “It’s about unity, that ‘all for one’ scenario. Everyone’s on the same page, striving for the same goal. When team members hold their challenge coin, I want them to feel a sense of commitment—to the team and to accomplishing our mission. It’s a reminder to stay focused, be determined, and give your best.”
This Veterans Day, we honor Jim and all our team members who have served in the military. Their leadership and dedication continue to inspire us, reminding us that with determination, we can achieve anything.
Jim Perkins, GROEBNER National Sales Director
Service Details
I served in the United States Marine Corps from 1984 to 1988. I exited as a (E-4) corporal. I served much of my enlistment at MCS Cherry Point, North Carolina.
Are there any key lessons from your service that have influenced how you work?
There is a slogan we used “Firm but Fair” that I have always thought is a good quality. To get the job done but consider how you need to accomplish the task.
Is there any advice you would give to someone considering joining the military?
Accept the challenge and give it 100%. Most of all, be the ultimate team player.
Ryan Ellis, GROEBNER Product Manager – Fusion & Tools
Service Details
I served in the Army for 9 years, from 2001-2011 with a break in service. I was stationed in Oklahoma, Louisiana, and Afghanistan.
Are there any key lessons from your service that have influenced how you work?
LDRSHIP – Loyalty, Duty, Respect, Selfless Service, Honor, Integrity, Personal Courage
Is there a memorable moment or story from your service that has stayed with you?
The moment you and your brothers and sisters put your lives on the line for each other.
Scott Doebler, GROEBNER Inventory Control Manager
Service Details
I served in the Navy, Fireman E3, on a repair ship - The USS Shenandoah - in the repair department in the boiler repair shop. I did active duty for two years, September 1987 to September 1989, in Norfolk, Virginia, and four years of reserve ending in September 1994.
Are there any key lessons from your service that have influenced how you work?
Communication and teamwork are very important in the military and are key points for working with others here at GROEBNER.
Is there a memorable moment or story from your service that has stayed with you?
In the summer of 1989, we were deployed in the Mediterranean Sea. At the end of July, a couple of us in the shop had to fly from Gaeta, Italy to the island of Mallorca, Spain to complete some repairs on a ship. After the repairs were completed and before we could get back to the ship, the ship had started underway towards Spain. We were given orders and some money and told to go live in the population and wait for the ship. As it so happens a lot of people in Europe “holiday” in August and we were hanging in one of the busiest areas. It was a great time.
