Industry Profile: Jean Dockendorf

We recently asked Valve Magazine Editorial Advisory Board member some questions about what got her into this world of fluid controls, and what she does outside of the world of valves and actuators. Here’s what she had to say.

What inspired you to pursue a dual path of mass communication and biology?

I was originally drawn to the combination of mass comm and biology because I wanted to be a science/technical writer. As I developed skills in journalism, I found that I really enjoyed trying to make very complex subjects easily understandable through the use of clear, concise language. Mass Comm also allowed me to develop additional skills in advertising, public relations, branding and event planning.  The more I learned, the more I wanted to learn about all aspects of marketing.

Jean began her career in the medical products industry. We wanted to know how she made the switch from that world to industrial fluid controls.

I made the switch because of the opportunity to work for a great company with a stellar brand reputation. I joined DeZURIK in November 1987. I’ve stayed in the industry, and with DeZURIK, most of my working career because of the continued stream of new opportunities to expand my knowledge and skills, along with the privilege of working with so many incredible people that have been part of the team.  

Why did you decide to get involved with VMA and the magazine editorial advisory board?

I’ve been an avid reader of Valve Magazine for many years and thought this would be a good opportunity to contribute to the association and also network with other key individuals in the industry.

Are there any exciting projects or initiatives you are working on that you’d like to highlight to our readers?

I am very excited about new technology, and the evolution of DeZURIK’s Digital Transformation has been a fascinating project over the past decade, with a major new initiative that launched in late 2023. My role has been to ensure the user experience is ideal through testing, documentation and strategic communications. The ability of users to gain access to real-time information through our fully integrated business system will provide value to our customers for decades to come.

How do you stay up to date on changes in the valve industry?

I read, a lot. Publications, newsletters, social media, etc. I not only read about our industry and B2B marketing, but also about other industries, B2C marketing and the world in general. I also try to network with many different sources including our sales reps and customers.

What do you think the biggest challenges are for valve manufacturers? For end users?

The pandemic created a seismic shift in many aspects of business, and the speed of change is unprecedented. I think the challenges faced by end users are many of the same issues affecting us as manufacturers: workforce changes/talent acquisition, digital transformation, supply chain disruptions, aging infrastructure, artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity, climate and sustainability (especially water – too much and too little), Buy American/AIS, PFAS, etc.  are some the biggest challenges we face.

Are there any emerging trends or technologies that you are particularly excited about?

Innovation of all types is very exciting to me – both in the valve products we design, develop and manufacture, and also in how our business serves customers and responds to their needs. Technologies such as 3D printing and rapid prototyping have already had a significant impact on our product development timeline. Using AI effectively and safely is clearly the most exciting innovation in the near future.

What advice would you give someone who wants to explore a career in industrial marketing?

Know your customers. Embrace your inner tech geek. Develop critical thinking skills. Write clearly.

Is there a piece of advice you were given that has stuck with you?

The best advice I’ve been given, and the ones that have shaped both my professional and personal life, have been from the book “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” by Stephan Covey. I read it when it was first published in 1989, and I think the lessons are more valuable today than ever before. While all seven of these habits are tremendously important, I would have to pick #5, Seek First to Understand, as my most important. Business today requires a lot of paradigm shifts, and navigate changes successfully, it’s important to clearly understand your starting point as that will have a huge impact on which direction you need to go to reach your desired destination.

What you do outside of work — family, hobbies, etc. 

The hobby that consumes most of my time is competing in dog agility trials. I have two English Springer Spaniels who have achieved their agility championships and are now working on their grand championships. The advanced level of communication with your dog required to navigate these complex courses is fascinating to me.

I also like to hike, bicycle, swim and take care of my large vegetable garden in the summer. In winter, I like to downhill ski and snowshoe. I also spend a lot of time trying to eradicate buckthorn from the woods surrounding our house. I’m a voracious reader (mostly fiction, and mostly audiobooks lately since I drive a lot) and am learning to watercolor.

Do you have any secret talents or skills that would surprise and delight our readers?

I just achieved Level 37 in Pokemon Go and have caught almost 10,000 Pokemon. “Gotta catch ‘em all.”