It’s #WeAreModern Wednesday! We are kicking off this new series to spotlight the amazing people who make up our MODERN family with Kerry Jehnsen, Purchasing/Parts Manager.
“I actually got started in this field somewhat organically. Early on, I was working in a role that involved a lot of coordination between teams, and I realized I had a knack for keeping things organized and running smoothly — especially when it came to managing inventory and parts. That eventually led me into purchasing and logistics.
“What really drew me to MODERN was the opportunity to work in a specialized manufacturing environment like thermoforming. I’ve always been interested in how things are made and the mechanics behind that, and this role lets me be right at the intersection of production and logistics. I liked that the company builds complex custom machinery — there’s a lot of moving parts, both literally and figuratively — and I knew it would challenge me to stay sharp, organized and adaptable. Plus, I was impressed by the reputation for quality and innovation, which made me want to be part of that.
“I’m most proud of how I’ve built strategic vendor relationships that helped us stay resilient during global supply disruptions. During a time when lead times were unpredictable and materials were hard to source, I focused on strengthening communication and diversifying our supplier base. It wasn’t just about keeping things moving — it was about building long-term partnerships that aligned with our goals. Being able to help the company navigate that uncertainty without compromising production timelines or quality made me feel like I was really making an impact.
“I most enjoy the mix of problem-solving and relationship-building in my job. I like being the person who keeps everything running smoothly behind the scenes — making sure the right parts are where they need to be, when they need to be there. But what really makes it rewarding is getting to work directly with our customers. Whether it’s helping them source parts quickly or troubleshooting an issue, I like being someone they can count on. It’s satisfying to know I’m helping them stay up and running, and that we’re building trust along the way. Being in a manufacturing environment, especially one as specialized as thermoforming, there’s always something new to learn or optimize, which keeps it interesting.
“I’m deeply inspired by my family, my friends and the kindness I see in the world. I try to live with a ‘pay it forward’ mindset, always looking for ways to help others and make a positive impact. My faith is central to that — it keeps me grounded and reminds me of our greater purpose.
“I enjoy exploring Michigan, taking road trips and spending quality time with family and friends. Just slowing down and appreciating the simple things, those moments recharge me and remind me of what really matters.”