General Tools is a leader in the design and development of precision specialized tools. We are committed to innovation and dedicated to delivering exceptional customer service, and we wouldn’t be where we are today without our people. To commemorate our 100th year in business, we’re showcasing some of the outstanding employees who have been instrumental in our success.
From fill-in gig to full-time career: Meet Michael Porter, Shipping
Joined: May 2004
When Michael started as a temporary packer in GT’s shipping department in 2003, he figured he wouldn’t be around long enough to make good friends or become part of a close-knit team.
“But then a few guys retired a couple of months later, so a permanent spot opened up,” recalls Michael.
“It’s a stable job in a nice atmosphere, and the folks here are nice, so that’s why I’ve stayed on. I've made great friendships with guys that have been here for many years – like Sylvan Griffith and my former supervisor Jesse Erkins – and even after they retired, we’ve still kept in touch.”
Over the years, Michael learned the ropes in the business, and says he’s grateful to mentors like Jesse who took the time to teach him everything he needed to know, from ELDs to route planning and compliance. He and his children also appreciated the family fun day picnics at local parks.
Michael finds many of the General Tools plumbing tools, screwdrivers, and wrenches very handy.
“Our wrenches are great for anything, and our thermometers, borescopes and magnifying glasses are helpful for lots of jobs,” he says.
One fun fact about GT:
“I remember back when I started, the previous owners spent a lot of time with us and got to know everyone well. Now, even though we’ve grown so much, we’re still a very tight-knit group, and it’s a real family atmosphere,” says Michael.
About General Tools:
Ingenuity is at our core of every tool we make. With General in your tool belt, you can proudly take on the title of “Genius At Work”. Check out generaltools.com for all your precise tool needs.
