Meet Kathy Rodriguez, Our Rental Manager

Kathy began her career at Valley Industrial Trucks in April of 1985 as the Sales Coordinator.  Her job responsibilities included processing and fulfilling all new, used and sideline orders for the sales staff.

After five years of success as a Coordinator, she was ready to move on to a bigger challenge and was promoted to the Rental Manager position in 1990. Kathy was the first woman to hold this position at Valley Industrial Trucks and she was very much a trailblazer in the forklift industry. This was a new industry for women to be involved with but it welcomed her talent with open arms.

Kathy uses a “hands on” approach maintaining the rental fleet which consists of 450+ units. The company responded to her unique selling style, which is upbeat with an energetic spirit, and awarded her the additional responsibility of handling multiple major accounts exclusively.

She has received numerous accolades and awards and has been named the 2009 and 2014 Rental Manager of The Year by CLARK Material Handling Company.

Kathy is very devoted to her husband Ray of over 30 years, her daughter Erica who resides in Loveland, OH and her son Reinaldo from Boardman.

She is a member of St. Charles Church and also contributes her time thru Valley to the Gleaners Food Bank. Kathy attended Youngstown State University studying business administration. She also refuses to participate in any type of social media and prefers phone calls and notes.

Kathy enjoys traveling (often referred to as the “weekend warrior” for the long weekend getaways they revel in), dabbles in photography and has a passion for planning themed parties.  She is an expert gourmet cook and wine is always on her table.   Ray and Kathy most enjoy spending time with their very large extended family.  Rumors are swirling there is soon to be a new addition to the family, a beautiful little Shorkie puppy.  PS:  It’s a secret, don’t let the pup out of the bag!