Our People
Kirk Gruenenfelder
December 2014
Fluid Power Fabricator and Service Technician
Portland, OR
Employee - Helping in the time of need
![Kirk](https://www.valin.com/sites/default/files/styles/asset_image_middle_size/public/Kirk%20G_1.jpg?itok=TEmNgFaI)
The Valin Mobile Technology Vehicle (MTV) was in southern Oregon, close to Roseburg making its way to Bellingham, WA for events scheduled at local refineries when one of the tires exploded. It damaged a bracket and the bracing of the truck. The normal travel time from Roseburg to Portland takes a little more than 3 hours. It took almost 8 hours to limp the 39,000 pound, 45 foot long vehicle to the Valin Portland office.
Upon arrival, the driver and the MTV were immediately directed to Kirk Grunenfelder a service technician and fabricator for the fluid power group. Kirk told the driver to pull the MTV around to the back. Kirk assessed the damage and said he would take care of it. Kirk did not hesitate, complain or state that he was too busy to help out. And even though the welding was in a tight location under the truck Kirk took all precautions and fixed the problem. Kirk saved the 2014 MTV Tour time and money with his altruism.