James R. Mulkey

Town: Lanesboro

Age: 50

Birth date: November 13, 1951

Birthplace: Chicago, Ill.

Occupation: Director of manufacturing, Specialty Minerals Inc., Adams

How I would describe myself: Calm, introspective.

Current volunteerism, board memberships, etc.: Working with the plant United Way representative to improve contributions. SMI is a significant contributor to Northern Berkshire United Way.

Family: Wife, Nancy; son, Jim, 18, a student at Penn State-Reading; daughter, Julie, 20, a student at Berkshire Community College. Pets: two labs, Norm and Madeline.

Education: BS in geology, University of Wisconsin; MS in Mining Engineering, University of Wisconsin.

Personal hero/role model: Al Kaline (Detroit Tigers baseball player), Steve Yzerman (Detroit Red Wings hockey player).

Why is this person a hero/role model to you? Strong, solid, leaders their entire careers who didn’t need the spotlight like current athletes seem to. They never complained and got the job done.

Personal achievement(s) of which you are most proud: A successful marriage and a professional career and getting two kids into college.

Personal quote/trademark expression: “We make big rocks into little rocks.” (Referring to SMI.)

The best advice you can give someone: Make every day count whether it’s in your personal or professional life. Take time for yourself each day to enjoy your surroundings.

Most recent book read and author’s name: “Atlantis Found,” by Clive Cussler.

Favorite TV show: “NBC Evening News”

Pet peeve: People popping gum or tapping pencils on airplanes.

Hobbies/interests: Hunting, fishing, gardening, home improvements.