Get to know IPF: Roger Bates
Anthony Yuhasz
November 2, 2020
- “He makes sure the job is done right the first time.”
- “His skill and professionalism are highly appreciated.”
- “Has gone out of his way to help assist our staff.”
- “Has been there EVERY time we have needed him, and often working under asap timelines.”
- “He is an asset to your department.”
- “Prompt, professional and courteous.”
- “His communication is top notch.”
These are just a sample of some of the many kudos that Roger Bates, locksmith, has received from his campus customers over his 12+ year career with IPF.
Bates’ experience in locksmithing, and the development of his strong work ethic, began long before he joined IPF.
“My father suggested to my grandfather that he should open a locksmith shop, and so he and my uncle decided to give it a shot,” Bates said. “When I was a kid, I would go to the shop on Saturdays and during the summer, and would do different jobs, learning as I went.”
He added, “My pay for helping was the best. My grandfather would take me to the bar next door for a hamburger and fries; I miss those days.”
After graduation, Bates’ uncle offered him a full-time job with the family locksmith business, and the rest is history.
Roger Bates, locksmithDuring these hard times, keep your spirits up - you always have friends, family and your IPF family.
“At IPF, I repair and install all types of locks, set up master key systems, repair and recombination safes, cut keys, set cores and discuss security needs with our campus customers,” Bates said. “I love it, as every day is a little different and you never know what you may face.”
Outside of work, Bates enjoys spending time with his family, fishing, hunting, working on cars and displaying his, and friend and IPF electrician, Chad Thompson’s, trucks at various car shows. He was also a volunteer firefighter and EMT for nine years.
With budget tightening due to the COVID outbreak, Bates and his team have found that some of their special campus projects have been paused – however, he remains optimistic.
“During these hard times, keep your spirits up,” he said. “You always have friends, family and your IPF family.”