When Steve Dierkes joined KMM Group over a decade ago, he didn’t arrive with dreams of a manufacturing career. In fact, he started out as a percussion major at Kutztown University, without much knowledge of the world of grinding. But what started as a necessity—a job secured through a close friend—quickly evolved into a passion for precision work. Steve’s story is one of growth, persistence, and dedication, showcasing how someone can carve out a successful career even when starting from a completely different background.
A Surprising Start and a Natural Evolution
Steve’s journey began at M&S Centerless Grinding, which later merged with KV Inc. and Meron Medical to form the middle “M” in KMM Group. Starting humbly in the shipping and receiving department, Steve admits, “I had no experience with manufacturing.” However, his curiosity and strong work ethic led him to gradually transition from assisting operators to becoming a trusted machine operator. “I started getting training on how to operate some of the machines. After a few years, I was a very competent machine operator in whom the company could trust running some of the most difficult jobs we had.”
The transition wasn’t always smooth. Steve recalls the immense challenges he faced early on, such as working on a delicate project for Johnson & Johnson, grinding plastic tubes as fragile as cooked spaghetti. The task was both physically and mentally exhausting. “It took days or weeks to figure out a process for them,” he shares. “I wanted to rip my hair out from constantly struggling, but in the end, I managed to get a setup that consistently produced a conforming part.” Steve’s persistence paid off, and it’s this resilience that has defined his career at KMM.
Driven by Problem-Solving and Team Collaboration
What Steve enjoys most about his work isn’t just the technical aspect—it’s the problem-solving. Each job presents its own unique puzzle, requiring creative thinking to deliver a flawless result. “Every job has its own unique way of figuring out how you will produce a conforming part for the customer,” Steve explains.
But it’s not just about individual effort. Teamwork plays a crucial role in Steve’s day-to-day work, with communication at the heart of it. “We have jobs with deadlines, and sometimes those jobs must go through a few departments,” he notes. The collaboration between coworkers helps streamline the process and ensures that any potential issues are caught and addressed quickly.
A New Chapter in Sales
Recently, Steve has been tapped to move into the sales department at KMM Group, leveraging his deep knowledge of the industry and natural charisma to connect with new and existing customers. It’s a role that’s perfectly suited to his strengths, combining his technical expertise with his ability to communicate effectively and build lasting relationships.
Steve’s versatility is one of the many reasons he’s been a standout at KMM, both on and off the clock. In addition to his work at the company, Steve is also the drummer for a local band, The Great Bonfire, which performs in and around Philadelphia. His love for music and collaboration in the band mirrors the teamwork and problem-solving he brings to his work every day.
“Steve brings a unique set of skills to the sales team and more importantly to our customers,” said Rick Desrosiers, VP of Business Development. “His knowledge of centerless grinding and years of experience manufacturing very tight tolerance parts is extremely helpful when working with our clients,” Desrosiers continued.
Beyond technical expertise, Steve’s personality also shines through. “He is also just a fun and friendly person that is genuine and easy to work with. His proactive approach, determination and drive to fulfill our customer’s expectations is contagious. I’m so happy that Steve chose sales as his next career path. He’s an absolute pleasure to have on our team,” said Desrosiers.
A Loyal, Lighthearted Team Player
When asked to describe himself, Steve picks three words: loyal, communicative, and lighthearted. His belief in treating coworkers with kindness and respect has made him a valued member of the team. “You have to be a person that people want to be around,” Steve says. “Be the first to say hello. And when it calls for it, be a friend to someone who might need one.”
It’s this positive attitude that aligns perfectly with KMM’s company values. Steve has found inspiration in KMM’s core principle of “Talk Straight,” a philosophy that encourages open and honest communication. “It’s not always easy to speak out as you’re feeling,” he shares. “But if thought out and said in a way where you come from a place of peace, you should be able to communicate anything to anyone and not feel remorse.”
A Lasting Impact at KMM Group
Steve’s contribution to KMM goes beyond just technical expertise; it’s about setting an example for others. “I would like to be seen as someone who cares about what they do,” he says. By taking pride in his work, Steve hopes to inspire others to share that same passion for precision and quality.
As he continues his journey at KMM, Steve remains driven by his desire to keep improving—not just for himself, but for his family. His wife Melissa, who has been by his side since his early days at M&S Centerless Grinding, is a constant source of motivation, pushing him to achieve his goals. It’s clear that Steve’s personal and professional values are deeply intertwined, making him a vital part of the KMM team.
Steve Dierkes exemplifies the spirit of growth, teamwork, and dedication that drives KMM Group’s success. His journey from percussion major to precision grinding expert—and now to the sales team—is a testament to the power of adaptability, determination, and passion—qualities that define KMM and its people.
For more, check out the other employee spotlight articles in this blog series, including profiles of Director of Training Darrin Brown, Director of Quality Ryan Johnson, Accounting Administrator Tammy Parker, Precision Grinding Floor Supervisor Doug Bloemker, and Manufacturing Engineer & Turning Dept. Supervisor Sean Kennedy.
Are you seeking a precision manufacturing partner who values efficiency, transparency, and empathetic communication? Partner with us to discover how our customer-centered approach and dedicated point of contact can enhance your experience and streamline your projects. At KMM, we’re committed to building strong relationships and delivering exceptional service. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your needs and help drive your success.
