Every so often, our editorial staff selects one aftermarket industry professional to get to know a little better. In this new feature, 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. This week, we hear from Tom King, vice president of enrollment management/technical training at Ohio Technical College in Cleveland, Ohio. 
Tom King currently serves as vice president of enrollment management/technical training at Ohio Technical College, a Cleveland-based technical training school. He first joined the college as director of sales and marketing in 2004.
What was your first job in the industry?
My first job in the industry was with Ohio Technical College as the director of sales and marketing in 2004. We had 300 students at the time and now we have more than 1,500.
What do you like best about your current position?
What I like best about my current position is the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of young people. As the VP of Technical Training, I have the opportunity to work to educate our students not only on the technical side, but to instill values and a level of professionalism that will carry them further in life.
Did you initially intend to pursue a career in the aftermarket? If not, what drew you to the industry and what keeps you here?
I did not initially intend to pursue a career in the aftermarket. In fact, the thought never entered my head following graduation from college. However, after spending years in sales and operations management, the opportunity to work for a college that trains technicians was an exciting opportunity. Had I known the excitement and technical expertise that this industry offers when I was younger, it may have swayed me. The constant change of aftermarket technology and desire to make things bigger, better, faster and louder keeps me engaged daily.
What do you do when not at work?
When I am not at work, I work. I am driven to make Ohio Technical College the top training school in the country and forge solid industry alliances. However, I make sure I take the time to enjoy my wife and three children and coach several soccer and basketball teams.
What one word best sums up your personality?
You can sum up my personality with the word “driven.”
What are you currently reading?
I am currently reading the Steve Jobs autobiography by Walter Isaacson. I am fascinated by how top executives got their start and transformed ideas into phenomenal companies.
Who is on your dream dinner party guest list?
My dream dinner party guest would be Donald Trump. I love his larger than life personality and his drive to succeed. I don’t think my wife would be as thrilled though.
Favorite quote or motto?
My favorite quote: “You miss 100 percent of the shots you never take.”—Wayne Gretzky
If you would like to participate in “Five Minutes With” or know someone who would be a great candidate, contact AMN Editor Amy Antenora by clicking here.
