“Joanne Ortiz knows how to price every service we offer, and does it with the highest accuracy,” said Nathan Stillings, McElroy’s CFO. “She genuinely cares that all time and materials are correctly accounted for, so our customers always get a true and honest price. Over the years Joanne has trained many people to do pricing with her high standards, so her impact is always growing!” Joanne Ortiz celebrates her 20^th McElroy’s work anniversary on January 30, 2026. We honor her for her meticulous approach to working with information and numbers, paying strict attention to details and taking pride in precision!

Family Business

Joanne grew up in Topeka and attended Washburn Rural schools. After graduation, she completed training for the secretarial/office field at Kaw Area Vo-Tech. For a couple of years, Joanne worked at the Timberline Unfinished Furniture store, learning about different woods, stains and finishes. In 1983 when her mother, Sharon, founded Creative Cabinetry, Joanne’s experience made her eager to join her in the wooden cabinet business.

Mind for Details

“I worked with my mother for 22 years doing everything regarding wooden cabinets,” Joanne said. “I took measurements, drew designs, built and finished them.” One regular customer was Charlie Campbell. He bought cabinets from Joanne for construction customers and his own home. He was impressed by Joanne’s work ethic and her mind for details. Charlie moved on to become the plumbing department manager at McElroy’s.

Joining McElroy’s

In late 2005, Sharon and Joanne closed their company. “Charlie heard I was looking for work and told me McElroy’s wanted someone to help with pricing for plumbing and HVAC service jobs,” Joanne said. Her ability to understand every facet of a project, from the time it takes to do the job to the materials used, made her an ideal candidate. She was hired the day of her interview, January 30, 2006. “I instantly loved McElroy’s,” Joanne said. “The atmosphere is comfortable, everyone is willing to help, and there’s always plenty for me to do. I like getting things done!”

Trustworthy and Fair

At McElroy’s, Joanne looks at completed service projects and makes sure the time and materials logged are complete and accurate. She knows so much about what plumbers and HVAC technicians do that she’ll spot a missing part or notice time that’s too long or short. Her in-depth knowledge is great for both our customers and our company. Invoices based on Joanne’s pricing are trustworthy and fair, and any questions can be easily answered.

Key Team Member

Joanne began by doing pricing for both plumbing and HVAC, residential and commercial. As McElroy’s has grown, she has trained several people to do plumbing costs so she can focus on HVAC. “Joanne always has a great attitude, is a pleasure to work with and is an important part of our team,” said Greg Hunsicker, leader of McElroy’s residential HVAC group. “She is consistently quick to correct any errors, and she keeps me on my feet – reminding me to follow up on anything that needs my attention. I really appreciate Joanne’s expertise and thoughtfulness!”

Knowledge Pipeline

One person Joanne has trained is Aiden Eyman, McElroy’s accounts receivable specialist. “It’s amazing that after 20 years of doing pricing, Joanne never gets lazy and goes through the motions. She’s still as passionate about accuracy as ever,” Aiden said. “As a mentor, Joanne made sure I was always doing okay, never in over my head. When she hands off responsibility, she stays willing to answer questions or step back in when needed. Having a 20-year knowledge pipeline seated next door makes learning very comfortable.”

Family

Joanne enjoys spending time with her three adult children. Jonathan and Danielle reside with her, and Jacob lives nearby. “I love being around my kids,” Joanne said. “We like going to movies together, and socializing around our fire pit with family and friends. When we have the chance, we enjoy outdoor activities like camping and fishing.” Joanne also has a married stepson, Ray, who lives in the Fort Worth area with his wife and three children. She visits them in Texas once or twice a year.

Valuable Answers for Anyone

Twenty years in, Joanne shows up every day like it was her first, and never cuts corners. Her decades of expertise are a daily resource for the entire team, from the newest member to Nathan, our CFO. Anyone can ask for Joanne’s help and count on valuable answers. “There’s no place I’d rather work,” said Joanne. “I hope to be with McElroy’s until I retire!” Thank you for two outstanding decades, Joanne. We’re looking forward to you working with us as long as you like!