InkJet Inc. 'Builds the Tribe' while strengthening the community.
- Name: Patricia Quinlan
- Title: Chairwoman
- Company: InkJet Inc.
- Region: Houston, TX
- Industry: Manufacturing
- Vistage Chair: Fred Brecht
Patricia Quinlan's company, InkJet Inc., manufactures industrial printing inks for an extensive range of applications, including the highly specialized ink used to mark expiration dates and batch numbers on retail products. When the coronavirus began to spread, Quinlan recognized that many of the chemicals needed for commercial ink production were also used to make highly sought-after and much-needed hand sanitizer.
The Challenge: Uniquely positioned to pivot her workforce quickly to produce this product, Quinlan initially intended to donate a limited quantity of sanitizer to local law enforcement agencies. But as the pandemic continued to cause shortages, Quinlan began to strategize ways to meet the community's needs as well as the needs of her workforce.
Leadership Solution: Initially, she shared her company's new product news with one person in her Vistage group. That led to an outpouring of interest from individuals, large companies, family-owned businesses and government agencies. "It's been humbling and mind-blowing," says Quinlan, of the effect InkJet's efforts have had. The company now sells hand sanitizer online and ships across the country.
The most important effect Quinlan notes is that she has been able to keep her employees safe and employed during a challenging economic time. Due to demand, InkJet has increased production, hired additional team members and can now offer employees overtime opportunities.
"As a company, we live and breathe our mission to 'Build the Tribe'. That means we must adapt and carry out the core values by supporting and helping one another."
