50949_WKBW_7_Problem_Solvers_658x90.png

Actions

WNY Women Leading the Charge: Michelle Jenkins

Posted at 3:32 AM, Jan 24, 2017
and last updated 2017-01-24 10:33:45-05

Michelle Jenkins started working at Thruway Fasteners as a child.  Her father started the business in 1958.  When she was young, Jenkins would sit with him to count nuts and bolts and prep them for distribution.  Today, she's the company's president, and credits the years she spent learning the business for getting her there.

"The reason why I'm sitting in this chair today is because I grew up in the family business.  I guess you could say the business and I grew up together," she explained.

Thruway Fasteners distributes fasteners - from screws and bolts to complex, specialized designs.  The company also helps some factories manage their inventory.

"They don't run out of product and it doesn't shut down their line.  We guarantee not only the quality of it but the quantity of it will be there as we need," she explained.

Jenkins is focused not only on the business, but also on the company's culture.  Her dog Piper is by her side most days, helping bring a smile to the faces of her coworkers.  Jenkins tells 7 Eyewitness News she's excited for the future of the family-owned company, especially now that her daughters and sons-in law are working with her.