Lisa Alonzo has been the receptionist for Kirby-Smith Machinery’s Oklahoma City office for nearly five years. While managing the phonelines for the heavy equipment distributor is a significant operation in its own regard, the value that Alonzo brings to Kirby-Smith Machinery extends well beyond the telephone. She was awarded a rare “Heart of Kirby-Smith” award earlier in 2020 for her above and beyond efforts during the beginning of the pandemic.

“Lisa has a big heart and a tireless work ethic,” said Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Jeff Weller. “In a year where circumstances have required us to have less occupancy in our building, she has stepped up help others empty trash cans, mop floors, handle temperature checks and make sure COVID-19 protocols are been effectively practiced - none of these things of which have been directly asked of her. Lisa just takes incredible pride in taking care of our customers and people.”

Alonzo admits she enjoys being the first face customers and employees see when entering the front office, which has allowed her to build strong relationships over the years. She even had customers send messages of encouragement during a recovery from surgery.

“I love working the front because of the interaction between customers and employees,” said Alonzo. “The relationships you form here are special. In all the places I’ve worked, I’ve never been any place where management cares about their employees with the sincerity that I have seen from Ed Kirby and Jeff Weller.”

Alonzo is a veteran of the United States Army and has two daughters, Vuarnet and Veronica, who themselves have been actively involved with their mother in participation of Kirby-Smith’s Race for the Cure team each October. In a year like no other, her efforts to provide a safe and friendly environment at Kirby-Smith Machinery’s OKC office have not gone unnoticed.

“Lisa’s dedication to Kirby-Smith is evident. It is an impressive accomplishment that she has not missed a single day of work through all the challenges of this pandemic. We don’t have an official employee of the year award, but if we did 2020 would belong to her,” said President Ed Kirby.