Meet Mark Prine: A Journey of Growth and Leadership

At Leavitt Machinery, we believe that our success is directly tied to the dedication, hard work, and leadership of our employees. Every individual brings a unique story and a valuable set of skills to the table, and it’s their contributions that allow us to thrive as a company. This month, we are thrilled to shine the spotlight on Mark Prine, a prime example of what it means to grow both personally and professionally within Leavitt Machinery. From his early days with Reliable Forklift Sales to his role as a key leader in our team today, Mark’s journey is one of resilience, adaptability, and unwavering commitment. His dedication to his team, his passion for learning, and his embodiment of our company’s core values make him a standout leader, and his story is one that truly inspires.

Background & Journey

Mark’s story with Leavitt Machinery began even before the official acquisition, back when he was with Reliable Forklift Sales. Introduced to the world of forklift sales by his close friend, Mark Bristly, Mark initially viewed the opportunity with a bit of skepticism. However, after some reflection and encouragement from his wife, he took a leap of faith, which turned out to be one of the best decisions of his life. His official journey with Leavitt began in January 2021, when Leavitt Machinery acquired Reliable Forklift Sales, allowing the previous owners to retire and leave behind a legacy that Mark continues to build upon.

Day-to-Day Life

In the forklift industry, no two days are alike, and Mark thrives in this dynamic environment. His ability to juggle priorities and adapt to the ever-changing demands of his role keeps the branch running smoothly. Two projects that Mark is particularly proud of include the successful transition from Reliable Forklift Sales to Leavitt Machinery during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the implementation of R.E.D. Shirt Friday. This initiative, which stands for “Remember Everyone Deployed,” allows the team to show their support for military service members, building a stronger sense of community within the branch.

Team Dynamics & Culture

For Mark, the word “family” best describes the team culture at Leavitt Machinery. This close-knit environment has been a cornerstone of the branch’s success, and it’s something that Mark continues to foster every day. Whether it’s organizing a sunrise breakfast to support a colleague or creating opportunities for team bonding, Mark is dedicated to ensuring that everyone feels valued and supported.

Professional Growth & Learning

Leavitt Machinery’s commitment to continuous improvement has been a driving force in Mark’s career. From the educational resources provided by “Leavitt University Online” through BizTrainer to the emphasis on Lean Six Sigma, Mark has continually refined his skills. His growth as a leader has been supported by both his local team and the mentorship he’s received from Leavitt executives. One particularly impactful resource was the book Multipliers, which has greatly influenced Mark’s leadership style.

Looking Ahead

Mark’s vision for the future includes playing a key role in expanding Leavitt Machinery’s presence in the Arizona and Southwest markets. As the industry trends towards electrification and automation, Mark is keenly observing these developments and preparing for the advanced training that technicians will need in the years to come.

Mark’s advice to anyone starting their journey with Leavitt Machinery? “Keep your eyes and ears wide open, ask questions, and learn the culture. Volunteer for projects, build a strong network within the company, and be ready for challenges and growth.”

Recruitment & Advice

Mark wholeheartedly recommends Leavitt Machinery as a great place to work, citing the company’s strong culture and supportive environment. For anyone looking to join the team, Mark believes that a strong work ethic and a positive attitude are essential qualities for success. Reflecting on his own journey, Mark says, “If I could go back in time, I’d tell myself, ‘Why didn’t you do this sooner?’ This journey has been life-changing, and I wouldn’t change a thing.”