Employee Spotlight: Taking the Leap with Senior Sales Engineer Sean Keleher
Taking the First Leap
Sean joined APM Steam in November 2013 after making a decision that would change the course of his career.
"I was in a comfortable job and realized that if I didn't make a change soon, I might stay there forever. I reached a point where I had to take a leap, so I did."
Encouraged by a friend already working at APM, Sean began as a field technician. After a year in the field, he seized another opportunity by applying for a sales position.
"Getting that sales role really changed everything for me."
Growth Beyond the Job
Looking back, Sean points to two defining moments in his career.
The first was transitioning into sales, where he developed skills in communication, public speaking, presentations, and understanding people.
"I had worked with people before, but sales taught me how to connect with them on a much deeper level."
The second came when APM Steam CEO Ricardo Aguirre encouraged him to return to school.
"For years, people told me I needed a degree, but Ricardo was the one who finally convinced me I'd be making a mistake if I didn't go back."
With support from APM's tuition reimbursement program, Sean earned a psychology degree, a subject he says has transformed both his professional and personal life.
It changed how I understand people and myself, and it sparked a love for education that has only grown. Now I'm working toward a master's degree in spirituality. I never would have gone back to school without APM.”
Building Better Customer Relationships
Like many people new to sales, Sean admits he struggled with nerves in the beginning.
"I remember presenting to our former owner and being a bumbling mess."
Experience eventually replaced anxiety with confidence.
"Once you stop focusing on yourself, you can focus on the customer. You notice what they're interested in, what questions they have, and how you can genuinely help them."
Today, Sean says many of his customers have become close friends.
I'm not selling to them in the traditional sense. We have honest conversations about what they need, and together we figure out the best path forward.”
His psychology background has only strengthened that approach, helping him understand people and communicate more effectively.
A Company That Still Feels Personal
After more than a decade with APM Steam, Sean says one thing has remained constant: the people.
"We're a large company that still feels like a small company in the best way."
Whether working alongside colleagues or supporting customers, Sean values the relationships he's built over the years.
When you call APM Steam, you're talking to real people. Many of us have been here for years, and that says something about the culture.”
He also credits APM with creating opportunities that have extended well beyond his career.
"This job has allowed me to build a better life for my family and pursue passions like continuing my education. Those opportunities wouldn't have been possible without APM."
Authenticity Makes the Difference
One lesson Sean has learned throughout his career is that people appreciate authenticity.
"When people think of sales, they often picture someone who's scripted or trying too hard. I don't think people want that."
Instead, he believes genuine relationships create lasting partnerships.
Being myself has made all the difference. Customers want to know who you really are. Over time, those business relationships become friendships, and conversations become much more natural.”
For Sean, authenticity isn't just good for business. It makes work more rewarding.
"I feel lucky that I can be myself at work, and I'm very thankful for that."
Every Day Is Different
When asked if he has a personal motto, Sean doesn't hesitate.
Every day is different.”
That mindset keeps his work fresh.
"If I'm having a tough day, I can change my focus. I might make calls, visit customers, or spend time developing new opportunities. Every day is a fresh start."
