Get to Know Your Holstein World - Eric Miller
Holstein World: This week we will be visiting with the people who make Holstein World and AllBreed Access tick - the print & internet teams! Each day, two or three of us will be sharing information about our jobs and interests. First up is our Internet Services Manager, Eric Miller.
Holstein World: Describe your position at Holstein World. When did you first begin working, what are your primary responsibilities, favorite tasks, etc.
Eric Miller: I am the Internet Services Manager at Holstein World & DairyBusiness and have been in this position since August of 2000. My primary responsibility is to oversee and manage all aspects of the Internet Services department, including sales and production. My responsibilities also include website design and maintenance, customer service, sales and computer technical support for the entire company…..and much more. One of my favorite tasks is actually creating new websites. I really enjoy the artistic creativity involved in designing new and unique sites, trying to develop new looks and integrate new ideas and technologies. It gives me a strong feeling of accomplishment at the end of the day knowing I have worked hard to create a website, banner or advertisement that hopefully our customers will love.
Holstein World: Share with our readers a little bit about your personal background. What you did before Holstein World, schooling, family members, pets, hobbies, etc.
Eric Miller: I am very happily married, we have 2 kids aged 17 & 18. My wife, Cathi, is an Office Manager/ Graphic Designer for Bon Appetite Management Co. Our oldest child, Lauren is a Senior in high school and planning to attend an Art School. The youngest, Eric, is a Junior in high school and is very intrigued with the Armed Forces after he graduates. We also have two 65 lb. lap dogs, a cat and two leopard geckos for pets.
I have college degrees in Liberal Arts and in Business Administration with a minor in Computer Science. Most of my practical computer training and knowledge came in the form of “Do it and learn” along with many seminars and educational programs. Before I began working for DairyBusiness, I worked for a local Internet Service Provider in a technical/customer support role. My responsibilities included computer setup for customers and web page design instruction. Prior to that I was Senior Production Manager for a computerized screen print and embroidery company.
I don’t have a lot of free time for many hobbies, except for one. I really enjoy the art and craft of brewing my own beer. It’s lots of fun to reap the benefits when it’s ready to drink, but the most rewarding aspect for me is actually brewing the beer and trying to make it better each time. There are so many variables and so many different styles and techniques…it’s a constant learning process.
Holstein World: What is one of your favorite memories working here? Most exciting accomplishment?
Eric Miller: I don’t have any specific favorite memories, but the part of my job that I love the most is meeting and talking to so many wonderful people. Not only from across the country, but from Canada and across the world as well. I have had the privilege of meeting and working with many, many fine individuals and families. And assisting our customers and clients in marketing their cattle or genetics with a website, banner or online advertisement makes my job a very rewarding experience.
The most exciting accomplishment for me is more of a “team” effort that not only I, but our team members at Holstein World and our customers and friends have played a role in. HolsteinWorld.com has become more and more popular for Holstein news, breeder news and resources as each year passes. The foundation was already set when I began in 2000, and with the help of the Holstein World team, our great customers as well as many friends and supporters, we have continued to build and develop the website into what it is today. HolsteinWorld.com currently receives over 5,000 visitors per day and that number continues to grow as each year passes. Thank you’s are due to our visitors, supporters and everyone who contributes to the website. It wouldn’t be what it is today without each of you.