Every so often, our editorial staff selects one aftermarket industry professional to get to know a little better. Participants are asked to respond to a series of questions that can be answered in about the same amount of time you might spend chatting at the office coffee pot or waiting for an elevator. In today’s installment of “Five Minutes With,” we get to know Mark Swetich.

What was your first job in the industry? 

My first job in the industry would be the one I have now with Dana. They brought me in right out of school and taught me the ins and outs of product management. I am now in charge of Dana’s light axle products.

What do you like best about your current position? 

I love becoming an expert in my market. I enjoy interacting with customers and learning about their needs, knowing that I can directly put the product they desire into the market.

What are you looking forward to most at AAPEX? 

This will be my second year in the industry, so I am very much looking forward to building new relationships. All of the industry vets talk about people they have known for years and years. Well, now I am just starting those relationships and it’s very exciting.

What word or two best sums up your personality? 

Adaptive

What are you currently reading? 

Nothing currently but my most recent read would be “The Vital Few Natural Laws: Powering the 80/20 Methodology in Business”. I have found that taking an 80/20 approach, not just in my work but everyday life has made me more effective.

What is the company planning for the year ahead? 

Dana has recently launched a new E-Commerce platform that we are very proud of. We plan to keep making enhancements to better the customer experience.

Favorite quote/motto? 

_{“A person who never made a mistake never tried anything new.”} 

Any advice for someone just entering the industry? 

As someone who is quite new myself, I would tell others to take advantage of each opportunity to go to trade shows and industry events. This market is not self-explanatory. You won’t learn enough from simply sitting at your desk. Every time I go someplace I get a better feel for the way everyone operates. There is no better way to become immersed in the aftermarket than walking a trade show. Take mental notes and don’t be afraid to initiate a conversation.

Know someone who would love to be featured in Five Minutes With? Email editor Amy Antenora at [email protected].