Kirby-Smith Machinery Inc.’s 2012 Guild Awards banquet was conducted in March 2013 in Dallas, Tulsa, Oklahoma City, and St. Louis. More than $15,000 in cash and awards was distributed during these events.

Kirby-Smith yearly recognizes superior achievement for those that put in the long hours and meet the grueling demands of keeping equipment running and properly maintained.

"A field technician is probably one of the most taxing positions mentally, emotionally, and physically in a heavy equipment dealership," said George Denny, marketing and sales director.

Glen Townsend, vice president and general manager of Kirby-Smith Machinery recognized the importance of motivated and well trained parts and service technicians early on in his 40-year career.

"Equipment has gotten more complex than in the past. However, our customer demands for quick and efficient repair have not changed. We must have the best qualified technicians working on the products we represent," Townsend said.

In 2004, Kirby-Smith Machinery developed its own exclusive internal award program "The Guild Program." The goal of this program is to promote continuing education in service and parts and ultimately to provide customers with superior service.

To be a member of "The Guild," requires each participant to attend at least 40 hours of technical training each year and score 100 percent on quarterly exams.

"I am proud of the individuals who are members of "The Guild" because this dedication demonstrates the importance they place on their work," said Townsend.

Guild Excellence Winners

• 1st Place Parts Category Gary Cox and Mark Foster (tie)

• 1st Place Construction Category Ron Hagood

• 1st Place Crane Category Dale Schmidt

• 2nd Place Construction Category Paul Cheeks

• 3rd Place Construction Category Steve Barboza

• 3rd Place Parts Category-David Harris